*Dear list members * * * *We would like to announce:* * * *An ocean field research expedition and field oriented courses* Together with the European funded LIFE project MarPro campaign, the Santa Maria Manuela Expedition is a unique field oriented research course on marine biology that provides a hands-on approach to marine zoology and ecology, namely regarding cetaceans and marine birds Offshore Portuguese waters (between the mainland and the Azores) provide an important habitat for European cetaceans and seabirds. The expedition will involve research staff from Aveiro University, Minho University, Portuguese Society for the Study of Birds (SPEA), Institute of Nature Conservation and Biodiversity (ICNB) and National Institute of Fisheries and Marine Research (IPIMAR). Santa Maria Manuela (SMM) is a polyvalent sailing vessel with perfect conditions to carry out research and monitoring activities, while supporting education and training on marine research techniques for undergraduate and recently graduated students. During 14 days the expedition will cover a survey area of ± 400,000 km2. Participants and students will have theoretical lectures of 1 to 2 hours, that will complement the training that will be given in the practical environment. Participants will be required to act as observers and to collect data during visual surveys for cetaceans and seabirds, to conduct acoustic monitoring and sampling of phytoplankton, zooplankton and fish.** The practical course will take place between the 7th and the 21st of August 2011. You can find more information at: http://uaonline.ua.pt/upload/med/med_1897.pdf -- Marisa Ferreira Sociedade Portuguesa de Vida Selvagem Unidade de Mamíferos Marinhos Estação de Campo de Quiaios Apartado 16 EC Quiaios 3081-101 Figueira da Foz Portugal