COMMON DOLPHIN PHOTO-ID VOLUNTEER POSITION IN THE HAURAKI GULF, NEW ZEALAND A volunteer is required to assist with a PhD study investigating the abundance, social structure and site fidelity of common dolphins (Delphinus sp.) in the Hauraki Gulf, 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<https://owa.massey.ac.nz/owa/redir.aspx?C=QIoA5pdRuUCToTWBw5X7lA6HAVO4K9EIsBSmP9km192DOB6SclPxubc4c_xlF5GTNghrzZmEhvI.&URL=http%3a%2f%2fcmrg.massey.ac.nz>). PROJECT BACKGROUND: The Hauraki Gulf, New Zealand, is an important habitat for common dolphins that occur in the Gulf year round and use the region extensively for foraging and nursing. Common dolphins in this region consistently utilise inhabit coastal waters, making them vulnerable to the effect of tourism, pollution, and inshore recreational bycatch. DATES: Volunteers are needed from April to July 2015, and a minimum commitment of one month is required (priority will be given to those who can commit for longer periods). LOCATION: Auckland, New Zealand RESPONSIBILITIES: * The volunteer position primarily involves analysing photo-id data from multiple regions around New Zealand to assess movement patterns and site fidelity of common dolphins in New Zealand waters. Volunteers should be prepared to work long days in the office analysing of photographs and matching them with the photo-id catalogue (5 days per week). * There will also be opportunities to participate in opportunistic marine mammal field work from either a small research vessel or a tour-platform in the Hauraki Gulf (1 day per week). As this is a volunteer position, there is unfortunately no monetary compensation or living provisions. The volunteer would therefore need to arrange their own accommodation in Auckland, living expenses, travel costs and visa. QUALIFICATIONS: The ideal candidate will have a mature and independent attitude towards marine mammal research, and have a willingness to learn photo-id techniques. Previous experience in photo-id would be advantageous. The project is well suited to upper level undergrads, recent grads and graduate students who are interested in learning about photo-id. APPLICATION PROCESS: Applicants should send a short email to k.rankmore@massey.ac.nz<mailto:k.rankmore@massey.ac.nz>, using "photo-id" as the subject line. The email should include an outline of why you would like to work on this project, the dates when you are available to assist on the project, your qualifications and relevant experience. Please also attach a brief CV including at least one reference acknowledging your relevant experience. Kind regards, Krista Hupman PhD Candidate Coastal-Marine Research Group Institute of Natural Sciences Massey University