HUMPBACK WHALE RESEARCH ON THE GREAT BARRIER REEF, AUSTRALIA (JULY-SEPT 2016) – RESEARCH ASSISTANT OPPORTUNITIES The Great Barrier Reef Whale and Dolphin Research Programme is led by Blue Planet Marine and operated in collaboration with the Cetacean Ecology and Acoustics Laboratory at the University of Queensland, Australia. http://www.blueplanetmarine.com. The Programme will be based on a live-aboard research vessel in and around the world-famous Whitsunday Islands. The focus of the Programme is to: · Identify areas of the Great Barrier Reef that are most important for humpback whale breeding activities; · Gather information regarding the structure of the east Australian humpback whale sub-stock; and · Gain a better understanding of whale acoustic communication and the potential for anthropogenic impacts within the breeding grounds of the Great Barrier Reef. Running from July to September 2016, there are opportunities for Research Assistants to join the Programme, living aboard the research vessel. The minimum length of time Research Assistants may join is one research trip of six days. On a daily basis Research Assistants will be actively involved in all aspects of research activities, including: whale fluke photo identification; video recordings; collection of genetic samples; recording behavioural observations; and recording whale song and social sounds. You will also assist with vessel operations, including all day-to-day activities such as cooking, cleaning and vessel maintenance. Sea time can be validated towards a marine qualification. The participation fee for a six-day research trip is $2,995 Australian dollars. Early bird applications received before 30 June 2016 will pay only $2,495 Australian dollars. A discount is available for those wishing to participate for more than two research trips (14 days). The participation fee covers accommodation aboard the research vessel and food while onboard. Research Assistants are responsible for all costs associated with travel to and from the Whitsundays. No prior experience is necessary and training will be provided. Preference will be given, however, to individuals involved in marine mammal science courses or related institutions and/or with prior volunteer marine mammal field experience. Places will be allocated in the order they are received and are subject to availability. To find out more about The Great Barrier Reef Whale and Dolphin Research Project (including the dates of research trips), or to register online for a Research Assistant position, visit: http://www.blueplanetmarine.com. David Paton, Managing Director, Blue Planet Marine