Marine Mammal Jobs

[Volunteer] Volunteer needed for August-September 2012 at Moidjio CRCAD

2012-02-06 15:48:02

Location: Comoros
URL: http://sites.google.com/site/moidjio

Description:

Moidjio CRCAD is proud to launch a new season of whale, dolphins and Dugong monitoring.

We are now recruiting volunteers to help out with ongoing research on the Comoros islands. We are looking for people to help with data collection and marine mammal spotting. Positions are available for any people interested in research and conservation of these fantastic species.

We are a small organisation working independently of any “gap year” organisation that will overcharge you for volunteering for a good cause. We charge you what it cost us to conduct the research. We are a non profit organisation, working hand in hand with locals and in partnership with the Marine national park of Moheli. We’ve been contracted to work for the BBC and are very reliable and an ethical charity registered on the Comoros islands.

In addition to marine mammals surveys, we will conduct marine turtles surveys (at sea and on nesting beach), sea-grass meadows surveys, mangrove surveys and conservation, coral reef and it biodiveristy surveys.

It is an amazing occasion to get experience in research and conservation. The cost is of 300£ per week and for 4 weeks spent you pay 3. Groups are welcomed and additional deduction would apply. We remind you that we are not doing it for profit, none of us get paid, we give our knowledge to people for the new generation of conservationists!!!

We will provide you with a substantial training in cetaceans research, share our experience and joye of life and give you the opportunity to observe cetaceans in one of the most remote island of Africa. Moheli and Grande Comores are the forgotten islands of Africa with a phenomenal natural heritage. Cetaceans behaviour is very unusual and approaches with our experts are always smooth and ethical. We sometimes dive with whales and dolphins to record underwater footage for behavioural record.

So if you planned to do something good this summer/autumn between August and Octobre please come and help us to research these unknown populations. Please visit our website for more details and do not to hesitate to ask any questions.

You can discover us on facebook “ Moidjio CRCAD Moheli Comoros” or please visit our website :

Moidjio C.R.C.A.D.
(Centre for Research, Conservation
And Development)
19 Rue de Notre Dame, 59670 Cassel, France.
moidjio@hotmail.com or moidjiobeach@gmail.com
http://sites.google.com/site/moidjio

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[Intern] Marine Mammal Research Intern at Institute for Marine Mammal Studies (IMMS)

2012-01-19 20:32:38

Location: United States
URL: http://imms.org/

Description:

Marine Mammal Research Internship at the Institute for Marine Mammal Studies (IMMS)

Program Description

The IMMS Research Internship Program is designed as a way for students interested in a career in marine mammal science to gain valuable research experience in a real-world setting. Interns will be trained in all aspects of dolphin photo-id research and will participate in other current research projects at IMMS. Interns will also participate in other operations at IMMS including stranding response, education, and animal care. Our goal is to give Interns a well-rounded experience in a variety of areas while providing expert training and experience in marine mammal research.
Principle Duties and Requirements

Interns must: • Commit to a minimum of at least 12 weeks. • Be available to work Mon-Fri from 8:30 AM to 4 PM and must be available for all boat trips. • Have strong sense of responsibility, work ethic, attention to detail, and ability to admit mistakes. • Produce high quality research efforts and exhibit strong interpersonal skills. • Principle Duties include: data entry, searching and cataloging journal articles, learning all research protocols, cropping and sorting photo-id fin images, learning to use photo-id programs such as Darwin (fin matching software), and FinBase (Microsoft Access), and boat based field research. • Secondary Duties involve: Working with animal care staff, attending marine mammal and sea turtle necropsies, responding to strandings, assisting with educational tours. • Field days: Interns must be able to spend many hours on the water in sometimes extreme seasonal conditions. Seasonal temperatures range from over 100 ˚F in summer to 30 ˚F in winter. Field days typically exceed eight hours and occur once or twice a week. May include overnight trips. Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must be 18 or older and must have a genuine interest in marine research. Applicants should be actively pursuing a college degree or be a recent graduate in oceanography, marine science/biology, biology, or a related field. Previous research experience in any capacity is a plus. Applicants must be able and willing to fulfill all duties outlined for this Internship Program. This is an unpaid position and Interns are responsible for their own housing and transportation. Once accepted, IMMS staff will be able to assist Interns in suggesting suitable housing options and locations.

To Apply
Please visit our website at http://imms.org/internship.php

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[Full-time] Marine Vertebrate Ecologist at Countryside Council for Wales

2012-01-19 10:17:38

Location: United Kingdom
URL: http://www.ccw.gov.uk

Description:

Starting Salary: £19,272.97 a year, which is pro rata to a full-time rate of £23,770.00.

This is a fixed-term, pensionable part-time appointment of 30 hours a week for six months.

Location: Bangor, Gwynedd

For further job details and an application form for the above post:
• Visit our website www.ccw.gov.uk
• Phone our enquiry line on 0845 130 6229
• Email enquiries@ccw.gov.uk

Please quote reference number 000999

Closing date: 3 February 2012

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[Intern] Cetacean Research Internship in the Mediterranean - Summer 2012 at CIMA Research Foundation

2012-01-05 08:41:10

Location: Italy
Description:

Cetacean monitoring in the Ligurian Sea (North Western Mediterranean) – Internship 2012

CIMA Research Foundation is a private non-profit research organization aimed to the advance of science and engineering in environmentally related fields, focusing on public health and safety, civil protection and the preservation of terrestrial and water-related ecosystems. CIMA RF is based in Savona, Italy, and it is seeking 4 interns for the field season 2012. This is a full-time position requiring a 5 months commitment from May through September.
This internship is an excellent opportunity for undergraduate and graduate students interested in pursuing a career in marine mammal research to strengthen their skills and above all to gain practical experience in the field.
We also encourage the use of this internship as the basis for the development of bachelor as well as master thesis.

This is an unpaid position but CIMA RF will cover expenses related to the internship like accommodation, food expenses, traveling to-from departing harbors. Interns will be responsible for their own travels to Italy. Housing will be offered in the Savona University Campus (accommodation will be in a double room with other intern).

Interns will assist researchers during the whole internship, being directly involved in surveys at sea as well as in post-survey data entry. The projects aim to collect baseline data on the distribution and behavior of the eight different cetacean species inhabiting the Mediterranean Sea. In particular, interns will be responsible for data collecting and data entry of two projects:

i) Monitoring Cetaceans from Ferries – this project is held in collaboration with a national ferry company. Interns will be on board of ferries operating between Italy and Corsica / Sardinia at least twice a week and they will be responsible of the Marine Mammal Observer team working on the ferry.

ii) Ziphius Project – this project is focused on the local Cuvier’s beaked whale population and it foresees weekly surveys in the Ligurian and Corsica Seas on board of a 18m long sailing vessel. Each survey usually last 2 to 4 consecutive days. Interns will assist researchers with data collecting, photo-id as well as actively participate in life on-board.

Interns will work equally on both projects. The internship foresees also a large amount of time to be dedicated to data entry and data analysis in the office. Because of the training required, applicants must be willing to commit to the project fulltime: all interns will be trained in cetacean observation and identification, in line-transect survey protocols and photo-identification.

Qualifications : Applicant must be reliable, motivated and team oriented, have a positive attitude as well as a genuine interest in marine mammal science; Applicants should possess or be enrolled in a BS or MS course in biology, environmental sciences or a related major;
Applicant must be adaptable and patient as fieldwork is highly weather dependent. This means a lot of data-entry work during bad weather and long consecutive days in the field when weather permits;
Knowledge of MS Office software and data entry skills are highly desired; Previous experience in the field is advantageous but not required.

If you are interested in applying for this position, please submit a cover letter and your CV via email to Paola Tepsich paola.tepsich@cimafoundation.org

Application deadline : 29th February 2012

Do not hesitate to contact us for any further information!

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[Volunteer] CETACEAN RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY IN ICELAND at Chiara Giulia Bertulli (PhD student, University of Iceland)

2011-12-30 13:31:16

Location: Iceland
URL: http://www.faxa-cetacean.org

Description:

CETACEAN RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY IN ICELAND: CONSERVATION BIOLOGY OF WHALES AND DOLPHINS IN FAXAFLÓI AND SKJÁLFANDI BAYS

WHAT:
Volunteers and assistants in Iceland are needed for the year 2012 to assist in Ph.D. dissertation research focusing on common minke whales and white-beaked dolphins occurring off Reykjavik and Húsavík.
This is a research project being conducted along the southwest (Reykjavík area) and northeast (Húsavík area) coasts of Iceland in collaboration with the Faxaflói Cetacean Research project (www.faxa-cetacean.org), Elding whale-watching (www.elding.is), North Sailing (www.northsailing.is) and the University of Iceland (www.hi.is):

Reykjavík area:
One research assistant and two volunteers (per research period*) are requested to partake in a project aiming to investigate abundance, patterns of residency, social structure, health status and behavioural budget of whales and dolphins occurring in the coastal waters of Faxaflói Bay, southwest Iceland. An intensive photo-identification study will be used to estimate number of individual whales/dolphins and their site fidelity (seasonal and annual) in the coastal waters of Faxaflói Bay during spring, summer and autumn months. Data on common minke whales and humpback whales have been collected since 2007, since 2002 on white-beaked dolphins. The existing ID-Catalogue already counts over 400 common minke whales, 300 white-beaked dolphins, 50 humpback whales and 8 orcas.
Most frequently sighted species: common minke whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata), white-beaked dolphins (Lagenorhynchus albirostris) and harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena)
Other species: humpback whales (Megaptera novaengliae), orcas (Orcinus orca), fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus) and basking sharks (Cetorhinus maximus)

Húsavík area:
Two volunteers (per research period*) are needed for a project aiming to investigate abundance, patterns of residency, social structure, health status and behavioural budget of whales and dolphins occurring in the coastal waters of Skjálfandi Bay, northeast Iceland. An intensive photo-identification study will be used to estimate number of individual whales/dolphins and their site fidelity (seasonal and annual) in the coastal waters of Skjálfandi Bay during spring, summer and autumn months. Data on common minke whales, white-beaked dolphins and humpback whales have been collected since 2001; since 2010 on fin whales. The existing ID-Catalogue already counts over 70 common minke whales, 200 white-beaked dolphins, 200 humpback whales and 5 fin whales.
Most frequently sighted species: humpback whales (Megaptera novaengliae), common minke whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata), white-beaked dolphins (Lagenorhynchus albirostris) and harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena)
Other species: blue whales (Balaenoptera musculus), fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus), orcas (Orcinus orca), sei whales (Balaenoptera borealis), bottlenose whales (Hyperoodon ampullatus)

WHERE:
Faxaflói Bay is a bay facing Reykjavík city where both whale-watching and whaling are currently taking place. Daily whale-watching tours are arranged from Reykjavik to spot feeding common minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, humpback whales, harbour porpoises and orcas. Elding whale-watching has been running whale-watching trips since 1998, with special interest in all whales visiting the bay. The company is member of Green Globe 21 and tries to fulfil environmental standards as well as certain whale-watching guidelines.
Skjálfandi Bay is a bay facing Húsavík city where daily whale-watching tours are arranged to spot feeding humpback and minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, fin and blue whales and harbour porpoises. North Sailing is one of the two whale-watching companies running tours since 1995.
Since 2007, Elding and North Sailing have been collaborating with the Faxaflói Cetacean Research project aiming to: – determine the abundance of common minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, humpback whales, harbour porpoises and orcas in the coastal waters of Faxaflói Bay – examining patters of residency using multiple photo-identification efforts – establishing sex ratio estimates via biological sampling – analyse the feeding behaviour of common minke whales, white-beaked dolphins and humpback whales and data collected on associated bird species – determining population structure of the resident population of white-beaked dolphins occurring in the coastal waters of Faxaflói Bay – assess cutaneous disorders on common minke whales and white-beaked dolphins during photo-identification surveys

WHEN:
Reykjavik area research period*:
1st April to 30th May 2012
1st June to 30th July 2012
1st August to 30th September 2012
1st October to 30th November 2012
1st December to 30th January 2013
1st February to 30th March 2013

Húsavík area research period*:
7th April to 30th May 2012
1st June to 30th July 2012
1st August to 30th September 2012

CONDITIONS:
In both Reykjavík and Húsavík, several whale-watching motor vessels will be used as research platform, for boat based work. In Reykjavik, living space for the boat based people is located on a former fishing boat in the old harbour, with 4 single rooms, bathroom, kitchen, living room and internet access (25 square metres); 10 min walking distance to the city centre. Internet access is also provided.
Because of the training required, applicants must be willing to commit to the project a minimum of two months (longer stay could be discussed). Because of the training provided participants must be able to join the project one week prior to the research period starting date.
Unfortunately, these positions are not paid and the successful candidates have to contribute with 350 Euros per month covering training program in scientific methods, scientific supervision, and reference materials related to the project including a certificate of completion (this price will cover accommodation expenses in Húsavík). 100% of fees support this research project and associated lectures. Candidates also must be able to cover their own travel expenses, travel insurance, food and other personal expenses. Accommodation and food during working hours (mainly lunch) will be provided in Reykjavik. In Húsavík accommodation is not provided but participants will be helped in finding a place for a cheap/moderate price (a communal house to rent might be available for all volunteers).
There are possibilities for students to develop their own academic projects using data collected during their stay (please contact Chiara G. Bertulli for more information).

DUTIES:
Applicants should be ready to work long hours (07:00 to 17.00 or to 21.00 hours depending on weather conditions) and be expected to participate in the following duties: – data collection (behavioural data, photo-id images, environmental parameters, ect.) – data entry under the supervision of the PI – recognition of feeding manoeuvres (engulfment and entrapment) – identification of species and behaviour of associated avian species (e.g. auks, gulls, gannets, arctic terns, skuas, fulmars and shearwaters) – identification of skin marks (infectious, parasitic, anthropogenic and antagonistic) – use of photo-ID matching softwares (Darwin)
Above this, cleaning, painting and other maintenance tasks is part of staying at the fishing boat in the old harbour as a gratitude to the free accommodation provided by Elding. At the beginning and end of each whale-watching trip, we also help the boat crew out by assisting passengers with life jackets, warm blankets etc.

QUALIFICATIONS: – have a strong background in Marine biology/Oceanography, with knowledge and experience of marine mammal behaviour and/or sea birds – have previous wildlife field experience and ability to stand long working days, sometimes in rough sea conditions (seasick people should not apply for these positions!) – have previous cetacean photo-identification and/or wildlife photography skills – be computer literate with a working knowledge PC operating system and proficiency with MS Word and MS Excel. Familiarity with software including MS Access and Photoshop is very helpful. Possibility to bring your own Laptop is much preferred – be enthusiastic, hard-working, team oriented, able to share small living space on board – be adaptable, flexible and patient as fieldwork is highly weather dependent – have good English language skills – bring your own digital reflex camera and zoom lens: 70-300mm, 70-200mm and/or 80-400mm zoom lenses preferred (Nikon compatible)

HOW TO APPLY:
CV or resume should include the following: – details of your availability – contact details of two referees – a brief description of yourself including your interest in marine mammals and what you hope to gain from this experience – specify if you have any preference for the ‘Reykjavík’ project or the ‘Húsavík’ project. – any dietary requirements (i.e. vegetarian, vegan, etc.)

Send applications to both Chiara Giulia Bertulli and Marianne Helen Rasmussen:

Chiara G. Bertulli (Ph.D. student)
University of Iceland
Biology Department
Náttúrfræðahús/Askja
Sturlugata 7
101 Reykjavik
Iceland
E-mail: cgb1@hi.is / ciarabertulli@yahoo.it
Mobile: +354-8618307
Skype: chiara.giulia.bertulli
Website: www.faxa-cetacean.org

Marianne Helene Rasmussen (Ph.D.)
Director of Húsavík Research Centre, University of Iceland
Garðarsbraut 19
640 Húsavík, Iceland
E-mail: mhr@hi.is
Mobile: +354-6958846
Website: www.dolphinresearch.dk www.stofnanir.hi.is/nordausturland/

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[Volunteer] SURVEY ON WHALING VERSUS WHALE-WATCHING IN ICELAND: VOLUNTEERS NEEDED at Chiara Giulia Bertulli (PhD student, University of Iceland)

2011-12-30 13:15:54

Location: Iceland
URL: http://www.faxa-cetacean.org

Description:

WHAT:
Volunteers are needed for the year 2012 to assist in collaborating with a Ph.D. student working on a survey about whaling and whale-watching in Iceland.
This is a research project being conducted along the southwest coast of Iceland (Reykjavík and Keflavík areas) in collaboration with the Faxaflói Cetacean Research project (www.faxa-cetacean.org), Elding whale-watching (www.elding.is), WDCS (www.wdcs.org) and the University of Iceland (www.hi.is):

WHERE:
Reykjavik is the capital of Iceland and it has become a Mecca for ecotourists who want to enjoy the unique Icelandic landscape (geyser and the many waterfalls), learn about its culture, do bird-watching (many are the birds species among which the most common are auks, gulls, fulmars, shearwaters, gannets, terns, skuas) and see whales and dolphins (most common species are minke, humpback, fin and blue whales, white-beaked dolphins and harbour porpoises).
Whale-watching activities, one of the fastest growing sectors of the world tourism market, began in Iceland in 1990, and have enjoyed over 250% annual growth in recent years. Iceland rejoined the IWC in 2002 and started scientific whaling the following year. Although Iceland’s scientific whaling programme provided no immediate monetary benefits, Iceland resumed commercial whaling on 17th October 2006.
Since 2009 the Faxaflói Cetacean Research has been collaborating with a local whale-watching company, WCDS and the University of Iceland in order to learn more about who tourists (visiting Iceland) are and where they stand on issues such as whaling, whale-watching and whale meat consumption.

WHEN:
Team I: June 1 – June 10, 2012
Team II: June 12 – July 22, 2012
Team III: July 24 – August 2, 2012
Team IV: August 4 – August 14, 2012
Team V: August 16 – August 26, 2012
Team VI: August 28 – September 6, 2012

CONDITIONS:
In both Reykjavík and Keflavík, volunteers are asked to distribute a pre-designed questionnaire in the following locations: (i) at the Keflavík International airport (ii) Reykjavik Bus Terminal (iii) Reykjavik City Hostel (iv) Reykjavik Harbour (v) Reykjavik Information Centres.
Unfortunately, these positions are not paid and the successful candidates have to be able to cover their own travel expenses, travel insurance, food and other personal expenses. Accommodation is not provided but we can help finding you places in downtown Reykjavik at a cheap/moderate price (from a minimum of 126 euros per 10 days of stay). Transportation to and from Keflavík will be covered for each participant.
There are possibilities for students to develop their own academic projects using data collected during their stay (please contact Chiara G. Bertulli for more information).

DUTIES:
Applicants should be ready to work long hours and be expected to participate in the following duties: – data collection – data entry

QUALIFICATIONS: – possibility to bring your own Laptop is much preferred – be enthusiastic, hard-working, team oriented – be adaptable, flexible and patient – have good English language skills

HOW TO APPLY:
CV or resume should include the following: – details of your availability (Team no.) – contact details of two referees – a brief description of yourself including your interest in this project and what you hope to gain from this experience

Send applications to Chiara Giulia Bertulli:

Chiara G. Bertulli (Ph.D. student)
University of Iceland
Biology Department
Náttúrfræðahús/Askja
Sturlugata 7
101 Reykjavik
Iceland
E-mail: ciarabertulli@yahoo.it
Mobile: +354-8618307
Skype: chiara.giulia.bertulli
Website: www.faxa-cetacean.org

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[Full-time] Humpback Whale Field Opportunities at Marine & Coastal Ecology Research Center-PR

2011-12-20 12:00:25

Location: Puerto Rico
URL: http://www.Marine-Eco.org

Description:

Humpback Whale Field Intensive Program at MCERC in Puerto Rico:
1 week “Shorty” programs

The Marine and Coastal Ecology Research Center is inviting interested students to participate in the second season for 7 day field intensive focused on cetacean behavioral ecology in Puerto Rico.

Join our research team studying humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) wintering off Puerto Rico. Space is limited to 2 participants per 7 day session for
boat and land based research platforms during the field season from January
2012-May 2012. We are offering this “shorty” format (by request!) to fill the need for less expensive programs fitting into work and class schedules.

This field intensive training program is well suited for students (undergraduate and graduate), teachers, and adults (over 18) interested in cetacean behavioral ecology, and conservation. No experience is necessary, just a desire to learn and experience field work as part of our team. The program culminates in a certificate acknowledging training including: Research experience in vessel and land based data collection and recording of humpback whale behaviors Photographic techniques in the filed Photo identification of individual humpbacks and dolphins Theodolite tracking and computer interface Passive acoustic sampling and analysis Assessing environmental factors Permit requirements for marine mammal research involving endangered species An overview of ecology on this island bordered by the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.

Fees support this research project and associated lectures. Participants are directly involved in data collection and analysis for PhD dissertation related research of humpbacks whale biology and ecology including whale occupancy, habitat use, and movement off Puerto Rico as well as an examination of reaction to human activity near shore (including boats, divers, surfers, and aircraft. $800.00 per student includes travel between field stations, training program in scientific methods, room and board at the project base station, reference materials related to the project, including field methods, and a certificate of completion. Dr. Bernd Würsig will join us and giving several lectures in February during passive acoustic data collection of humpback whale songs. Fees do not include travel to and from Ponce, Puerto Rico and compulsory insurance. Students landing in Ponce, Puerto Rico will be picked up at the airport and brought to the base station in Guayanilla.

MCERC has provided documentation of study for students working with their advisers at universities resulting in college credit. Please send us an e-mail in advance of your application if you are considering this option.

To apply, simply fill out the application, the photo release form, liability release form, and proprietary data form. Send them to this e-mail address (Please note the general application indicates a $900.00 fee..this fee is for other MCERC shorty programs. The cost for this program is $800.00 USD). Forms may be obtained from our website (www.Marine-Eco.org) or sending an e-mail with a request for an application packet.

Once we receive your documents, we will look to see if the dates you requested are filled. Please be sure to put in a first, second , and third choice of dates to avoid missing out on a spot this season. Once dates are matched, you will be notified via e-mail.and have two weeks to mail a check to MCERC in Puerto Rico to hold your spot. If funds are not received, the spot will be filled from our waiting list.

Website: www.Marine-Eco.org
MCERC.mail@gmail.com

Please be sure to indicate first, second, and third choice for dates from the following 2012 schedule:

Session 1 Jan 15-21
Session 2 Jan 22-Jan 28
Session 3 Jan 29- Feb 04
Session 4 Feb 05-Feb 12
Session 5 Feb 12- Feb 18
Session 6 Feb 19-25
Session 7 Feb 26-March3
Session 8 March 4- 10
Session 9 March 11-March 17
Session 10 March 18-24

There is no deadline for applications; however, spaces typically fill very
quickly. Spots are secured with full, non-refundable payment received with
the completed application. Please email for details and mailing information.

See you in the tropics!

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[Volunteer] Research Volunteering opportunity in Cardigan Bay for 2012 at Sea Watch Foundation

2011-12-08 11:34:47

Location: United Kingdom
URL: http://www.seawatchfoundation.org.uk

Description:

Volunteers are invited to assist the Sea Watch Foundation (www.seawatchfoundation.org.uk) with the running of the “Cardigan Bay Monitoring Project”. The project is based in New Quay, West Wales, and takes care of the conservation management of the bottlenose dolphin, harbour porpoise and grey seal populations of Cardigan Bay, monitoring their abundance, distribution, reproductive success and population structure using a combination of line-transect, photo-identification, land-based and acoustic surveys.

The volunteers will help the Cardigan Bay Monitoring Officer and the Sightings Officer by taking part in the following tasks:

• Land-based surveys
• Boat-based surveys
• Photo-identification studies
• Database entry
• Awareness raising
• Education initiatives
• Acoustic monitoring
• Assist with and participate in training courses and public talks.

Volunteers are required from April until October 2012 split into 5 separate periods of 6 weeks each (the first period will consist of 5 weeks). Preference will be given to those who can stay for more than one period, including the whole 6-months field season. Volunteers will be based in New Quay, West Wales. Accommodation is provided at a rate of around £55/week. Volunteers are responsible for their own travel, accommodation and living expenses, but it is generally quite easy to obtain part-time paid work in the area if required.

Volunteering periods for summer 2012:
Period 1 09/04 – 13/05, Period 2 14/05 – 24/06, Period 3 25/06 – 05/08, Period 4 06/08 – 16/09, Period 5 17/09 – 28/10

Important skills/qualifications
Essential:
• an ability to work in a meticulous and reliable manner
• strong commitment to volunteering work
• willingness to work long hours outdoors in often very changeable Welsh weather
• good IT skills (Office package)
• an ability to get on well with others in a small team and shared accommodation

Desirable:
• a background in marine biology/environmental science or similar
• a strong interest and knowledge of British cetaceans
• prior experience in boat-based survey work
• good verbal and written communication skills and in public speaking
• experience in interacting with the public

All volunteers will be trained in cetacean observation and identification, in line-transect survey protocols and photo-identification of bottlenose dolphins and grey seals.

To apply:

Please send your CV, covering letter reporting any relevant experience you have and specifying the period(s) you would prefer to volunteer for and contact details of two referees, to Gemma Veneruso (gemma.veneruso@seawatchfoundation.org.uk).

Deadline: 31st January 2012.

Please specify NEW QUAY VOLUNTEER APPLICATION into your subject title.

Applicants will be notified of the outcomes by the 24th February 2012.

The Sea Watch Foundation

The Sea Watch Foundation is a registered marine environmental research charity that aims to achieve better conservation of whales and dolphins in the seas around Britain and Ireland, by involving the public in scientific monitoring of populations and the threats they face. At Sea Watch Wales, we are dedicated to raising awareness, knowledge and conservation of the marine wildlife of West Wales. Our work is funded by the Countryside Council for Wales, Defra, Joint Nature Conservation Committee and the Heritage Lottery Fund, and we work closely with the local management authority, Ceredigion County Council.

Research
The purpose of our research here is to monitor the marine mammal populations inhabiting Cardigan Bay, so as to gain information to aid the conservation and long-term well being of these animals and the local marine environment. This is achieved by conducting various projects including:

• Estimating the abundance and distribution of bottlenose dolphins, harbour porpoises and grey seals within Cardigan Bay using distance sampling and opportunistic boat surveys
• Maintaining and updating a catalogue of photographically identified bottlenose dolphins in Wales in order to study their abundance, social structure, movements and life histories.
• Acoustic monitoring of bottlenose dolphins and harbour porpoises in the Cardigan Bay SAC using automated click detectors (T-PODs and C-PODS) and hydrophones.
• Setting up a library of underwater sounds in Welsh waters in order to develop bio-acoustic research in the area.

We further aim to raise awareness and understanding of the importance of the local marine wildlife and the habitats supporting them, to encourage respect and conservation of the area and its wildlife for future generations. We also run training courses for the public in cetacean identification and survey methods.

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[Volunteer] RESEARCH ASSISTANT/VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR IN CARDIGAN BAY 2012 at Sea Watch Foundation

2011-12-08 11:31:31

Location: United Kingdom
URL: http://www.seawatchfoundation.org.uk

Description:

This position is responsible for assisting the Monitoring Officer in the running of the “Cardigan Bay Monitoring Project” and coordinating the project volunteers. The project is based in New Quay, West Wales, and takes care of the conservation management of the bottlenose dolphin, harbour porpoise and grey seal populations of Cardigan Bay, monitoring their abundance, distribution, reproductive success and population structure using a combination of line-transect, photo-identification, land-based and acoustic surveys.

Start Date: April 2nd 2011 End Date: November 4th 2011

Responsibilities will include but are not limited to:
• Coordinate between the Monitoring Officer/Sightings Officer and the project volunteers – in charge of the volunteer house and the volunteer weekly office rota.
• Assisting the Monitoring Officer/Sightings Officer in volunteer basic training of land- and boat based surveys, photo ID studies, Database entry and more.
• Assisting the Monitoring Officer in all phases of the research.
• Undertaking a personal research project supervised by the Monitoring Officer – research topic will be chosen according to Sea Watch Foundation requirements and applicants’ interests.
Requirements:
The successful applicant is expected to have a BSc degree (or higher) in biology, marine biology, zoology, chemistry, or related field and able to demonstrate previous experience in marine mammal research. A strong interest and knowledge of British cetaceans and boating experience are beneficial.

The applicant must be proficient with database and word processing software and be willing to learn new software applications. Specific experience in Access and/or GIS would be advantageous.

The preferred candidate should have a proven track record as a team player as the project will involve working closely with other researchers but also must be able to supervise small groups of people as they will be coordinating at least 6 volunteers. They must also be self-motivated with the drive and determination to work independently and responsibly. This post brings the opportunity to submit work for scientific publication.

This position is unpaid but accommodation expenses will be covered.

To apply:

Please send your CV, a cover letter reporting any relevant experience you have and contact details of two referees to Gemma Veneruso (gemma.veneruso@seawatchfoundation.org.uk).

Deadline: 31st January 2012.

Please specify RESEARCH ASSISTANT/VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR into your subject title.

Applicants will be notified of the outcomes by the 24th February 2012.

The Sea Watch Foundation

• Estimating the abundance and distribution of bottlenose dolphins, harbour porpoises and grey seals within Cardigan Bay using distance sampling and opportunistic boat surveys
• Maintaining and updating a catalogue of photographically identified bottlenose dolphins in Wales in order to study their abundance, social structure, movements and life histories.
• Acoustic monitoring of bottlenose dolphins and harbour porpoises in the Cardigan Bay SAC using automated click detectors (T-PODs) and hydrophones.
• Setting up a library of underwater sounds in Welsh waters in order to develop bio-acoustic research in the area.

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[Volunteer] Visitor centre and bottlenose dolphin research assistants at Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre

2011-11-23 13:45:48

Location: United Kingdom
URL: http:// www.cbmwc.org/?page_id=455

Description:

Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre (CBMWC) is recruiting volunteer visitor centre and bottlenose dolphin research assistants for the 2012 season (March to November).

The Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre is a non-profit organisation based in New Quay, west Wales, UK and since 1996 has been dedicated to raising awareness of the local marine environment through research and education. Through boat-based and land-based surveys we monitor bottlenose dolphin, harbour porpoise and Atlantic grey seal populations, with a focus on the photo-identification of the semi-resident population of bottlenose dolphins in the Cardigan Bay Special Area of Conservation (SAC).
To learn more, please visit www.cbmwc.org

Volunteer positions are available for specific dates from 28th March through to 6th November 2012 to help with our ongoing research, education and awareness-raising programmes concerning the marine wildlife of Cardigan Bay.

This is a fantastic opportunity for you to make a positive contribution to marine wildlife conservation and meet new people who share your interests. Learn about the species and habitats in Cardigan Bay, gain experience in field work, research methods, data processing, public awareness and education programmes. Contribute to long running studies on bottlenose dolphin site usage and abundance research and photo-identification studies.

We welcome undergraduate and postgraduate students who need field work (including boat) support and office space to conduct their research projects. Dedicated boat time can be made available. Please contact us to discuss whether your project ideas are feasible.

Volunteers play a vital role in the Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre’s work. The centre relies on the generous help of volunteers to undertake its work and greatly appreciates your time. Please note enthusiasm for our work and the marine environment is as valued as experience, since full training in species identification, data collection/entry and visitor centre operation is provided.

Position description
Responsibilities/duties will include (but are not limited to):
• Visitor centre operation, including dealing with enquiries and taking boat bookings
• Land-based surveys in conjunction with Ceredigion County Council
• Boat-based surveys
• Data entry and checking
• Updating sightings information
• Beach cleans
• Educational activities with children and the general public

Please note that boat surveys are weather dependent and volunteers take turns to join trips to act as onboard researcher. During times of bad weather, you will spend more time carrying out data entry and visitor centre work. You will be expected to work up to 8 hours a day, six days a week. Field work can involve long periods outdoors, in often inclement weather. All volunteers are expected to contribute to all CBMWC activities, tasks and field work and to attend all training sessions provided. As such, if you are only looking to gain field experience, this is not the opportunity for you.

Essential skills
• An interest in wildlife and conservation
• Positive, reliable, conscientious and mature attitude
• Ability to work as part of a small team
• Self-motivated with an ability to work unsupervised
• Adaptable and patient (particularly as boat work is weather dependent)
• Excellent communication skills and confidence in dealing with the public both face to face and over the telephone
• Fluency in English
• Willingness to ask for help if unsure and admit mistakes

Desirable skills
• Research and surveying experience
• Experience working with children, the public or in environmental interpretation or education
• IT, design, videography (own equipment necessary) and fundraising skills

Time commitment
Volunteers are needed in blocks from March 28th until 6th November 2012. Priority will be given to volunteers who are able to commit to more than one block and we encourage applications from volunteers who would like to join the team for the majority of (or entire) season and would like gain additional experience in photo-ID, volunteer training and coordination.

Volunteers living locally who are available on a part-time basis are also welcome year round and are greatly appreciated.

Volunteering dates 2012
• Block A: 28th March to 24th April (4 weeks)
• Block B: 25th April to 22nd May (4 weeks)
• Block C: 23rd May to 3rd July (8 weeks)
• Block D: 4th July to 11th September (10 weeks)
• Block E: 12th September to 6th November (8 weeks)

Volunteer fee
An administration fee of £35 will be required from all successful applicants.

Accommodation and expense arrangements
Shared accommodation in a comfortable and fully equipped house will be arranged for successful volunteers (where required) at a cost of £55 per week, including fuel bills. Volunteers are responsible for their own food, travel and accommodation costs.

How to apply
It’s easy to get involved – simply download an application form from our website http://www.cbmwc.org/?page_id=455 complete it and email it to volunteer@cbmwc.org with ‘Volunteer application 2012’ in your subject line. Electronic applications are preferred but you can print and post your application form.
Please make sure you fill in your availability.
The closing date for applications is Friday 10th February 2012

Postal address:
FAO: Laura Mears
Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre
Patent Slip Building
Glanmor Terrace
New Quay
Ceredigion
SA45 9PS
Wales

For further information
Visit http://www.cbmwc.org
If you have any questions please email volunteer@cbmwc.org with an appropriate subject line or call Laura on +44 (0)1545 560224

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