Marine mammal volunteer research assistants required in Broadhaven Bay, Co. Mayo, Ireland.

The Marine Ecology Group at MaREI, University College Cork, is seeking three volunteer research assistants for the 2016 field season. Volunteers are required to carry out research on marine mammals in Broadhaven Bay, Co. Mayo, Ireland between August – September 2016. Research assistants will be required to conduct cliff-based monitoring surveys, office related tasks and stranding’s surveys. This presents an opportunity to work within a team of experienced researchers and gain experience in field techniques for marine mammal surveys, while contributing to a larger program of marine mammal research.

 

WORK PERIOD

25 August 2016 – 25th September 2016

Due to training requirements, preference will be given to applicants who can commit for the full month.

 

LOCATION

Research assistants will be based in a shared house on the Mullet Peninsula, Co. Mayo. The house, which doubles as the office, is approx. 7km from the town of Belmullet, where there are supermarkets, cafes, pubs, banks, etc. Accommodation will be shared with up to 7 people so good teamwork and interpersonal skills are imperative. The Mullet Peninsula is a stunning location on the world famous Wild Atlantic Way, boasting some of the nicest, and untouched, beaches in Ireland. Applicants must be aware that the Mullet Peninsula is geographically very remote with limited facilities and variable weather patterns with rain, wind and generally stormy conditions possible year-round. Expect to spend time in the office when conditions are less than ideal as field work will not be possible in these circumstances, however there will be plenty of opportunity to explore the surrounding area, which is an ideal location for those who enjoy surfing, hiking and wildlife. Just be aware if you do not have your own car, accessibility of the surrounding area can be limited.

 

RESPONSIBILITIES

Volunteers will work in shifts and all field work is weather-dependent and can be cancelled with short notice by the site leader if conditions are not ideal. A structured schedule will be set up with rotations of field duties, time off and specific duties for each person. Field work will include conducting cliff-based surveys from two sites in Broadhaven Bay using theodolites. There will be the need to respond to stranding’s in the area and to conduct complete necropsies when appropriate. The rest of the time will be spent in the office on data entry and analysis duties. There may be a public outreach and education component as well which will include interpreting marine mammal biology to the local community.

 

TERMS OF INTERNSHIP

The project budget will cover accommodations at the project house and transportation to and from the field site for surveys. Interns will be responsible for their own food, transportation to and from the research station, entertainment and free time expenses.

 

REQUIREMENTS

Essential

Genuine interest in marine mammal biology, the marine environment and conservation.

Advanced computer proficiency in MS Office (Excel, Word)

Excellent verbal and communication skills

Enthusiasm and a positive attitude to hard work and long hours in the field in inclement weather

Ability to work well both in a team and independently

Flexibility and patience as fieldwork is highly weather dependent

Excellent English language skills

Moderate level of fitness – there is a 25-minute hike carrying gear to the cliff sites.

 

Highly Desirable

Driving Licence and car

Familiarity with theodolite use, GPS equipment and software

Prior experience with R, ArcGIS and C-POD software

Enrolled in or completed a degree in Biology, Marine Biology, Environmental Science, Animal Behaviour, Ecology, Zoology or related fields

Previous field research experience, particularly marine research

Previous experience of working in remote locations as part of a small team

A strong interest and knowledge of marine mammals

 

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

To apply, please send a copy of your CV (including two relevant referees and their contact details) and a brief (max 250 words) cover letter with a description of yourself and your experience to Aoife Foley (aoifefoley@ucc.ie). Applications will be accepted until the positions have been filled.