Enthusiastic individuals with a keen interest in dolphin studies are invited to assist with a PhD study investigating common dolphin ecology (Delphinus sp.) in the Bay of Plenty, New Zealand. This PhD project is part of the ongoing research of the New Zealand Common Dolphin Project (NZCDP) and the Coastal-Marine Research Group (C-MRG) at Massey University Albany, Auckland. (http://cmrg.massey.ac.nz).

 

 

PROJECT BACKGROUND:

This project aims to explore the distribution, habitat use and site fidelity of common dolphins (Delphinus sp.) in an oceanic environment: the East Coast Bay of Plenty, and assess the effects of local tourism on dolphin population.

Photo-identification is used to assess common dolphin abundance and site fidelity in the region.

 

DATES:

 

November 2013 – February 2014. A minimum commitment of 2 months is requested. Priority will be given to candidates who can commit for longer periods.

 

LOCATION:

 

Tauranga, New Zealand

 

RESPONSIBILITIES & FIELD WORK OPPORTUNITY:

Analysis of photo-identification data, including assistance with photo sorting, grading, and matching, sighting data entry, maintenance of long-term photo-id catalogue using a MS Access database. Research assistants should be prepared to work long days analysing photographs and matching them with the existing photo-identification catalogue.

PREREQUISITES:

 

. Be meticulous, reliable, adaptable, hardworking and patient.

. Have a mature and independent attitude towards marine mammal research.

. Speak fluent English

. Be sociable, enthusiastic and have a positive attitude

. Strong interest in the marine environment and conservation

. Previous experience in photo-ID on small cetaceans will be considered.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS but no required:

. Photo-identification experience

 

APPLICATION PROCESS:

 

This is a volunteer position, so there is unfortunately no monetary compensation or living provisions. However, help can be provided to find accommodation. Assistants will be responsible for travel to Tauranga and their own living expenses.

Applicants should email a letter of interest outlining relevant experience and motivation for participation, as well as a CV and the contacts for referees to Anna Meissner a.m.meissner@massey.ac.nz

Early application is recommended as applications will be examined in order of reception.

Kindest regards,

 
Anna Meissner

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Anna M. Meissner
PhD student
Coastal-Marine Research Group
Institute of Natural and Mathematical Sciences
Massey University
Private Bag 102 904
North Shore City, 0745
Auckland, New Zealand

Tel: +64 9 414 0800 ext 41520
Cell: +64 22 603 6646
Fax: +64 9 443 9790

Email: a.m.meissner@massey.ac.nz
Web: http://cmrg.massey.ac.nz
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