Voluntariado: Carolina del Sur!!

The Marine Mammal and Protected Resources (MMPR) Program in Charleston, South Carolina is recruiting to fill two Dolphin Photo-Identification Internship positions for the winter of 2010. The MMPR is organized within NOAA?s National Ocean Service and is located at the Coastal Environmental Health and Biomolecular Research (CCEHBR) laboratory in Charleston, SC.

The intern position involves a commitment of 20 hours per week extending over a 14 week period from January 11, 2010 to April 16, 2010. There is some flexibility in these start and end dates. Interns will participate in the field and laboratory activities of the Charleston Dolphin Abundance and Distribution Project (CDAD).

The CDAD project carries out boat-based photo-identification surveys in the coastal and inland waterways of the Charleston SC area. This research is designed to provide an understanding of the population characteristics, including temporal and spatial aspects, of the distribution of Charleston area Atlantic bottlenose dolphins. The internship offers an excellent opportunity for qualified and motivated individuals to obtain field and laboratory training in photo-identification methodology and analysis under the mentorship of experienced dolphin researchers.

There is no compensation for this internship position and the successful applicant will be responsible for their living and transportation expenses during the time of the internship. During the internship, interns must have a personal vehicle to allow them to travel to and from the laboratory and to some of the local field sites in the Charleston area. Ideal internship applicants will be advanced undergraduates or a recent graduate of a scientifically oriented university program in the behavioral or biological sciences.

A typical applicant should have a strong interest in the scientific study of cetacean behavioral ecology, have potential interests in future graduate study in marine mammal science, and be an individual who seeks extensive and intensive exposure to the field work, data analysis techniques, and research literature in this field.

Preference will be given to the selection of interns with well developed computer skills and boat-based field experience. The internship application will consist of a letter of interest, transcripts of university coursework and two letters of recommendation from professors or research supervisors who are familiar with your scholarship, research skills and work habits.

Interested applicants should first correspond with Todd Speakman by email before preparing and submitting application materials. We anticipate filling this internship position by the end of November, 2009.

Interested applicants should correspond by email to Todd Speakman

Email:

Todd.Speakman@noaa.gov


Zolman .pdf download:
http://www.sci.sdsu.edu/classes/psychology/psy211/defran/CDAD/Zolman2002.pdf

CDAD SOP .pdf download:
http://www.sci.sdsu.edu/classes/psychology/psy211/defran/CDAD/CDAD_Internship_SOP.pdf

Speakman et al. pdf download:
http://www.sci.sdsu.edu/classes/psychology/psy211/defran/CDAD/Speakman_et_al_2006a.pdf

Voluntariado: Australia!!

CALL FOR VOLUNTEER RESEARCH ASSISTANTS

WHAT: Volunteer assistants are requested to partake in a PhD project investigating diet and foraging ecology of bottlenose dolphins.

WHERE: Bunbury, South Western Australia (180 km south of Perth). A beautiful coastal town with easy access to Perth, the Margaret River wine region, surfing and bush walking.

WHEN: January to March 2010; and June to September 2010.

DUTIES:

- Relative composition and abundance of prey species in the Koombana Bay region will be sampled using beach seine nets, fish traps, and gillnets. Volunteers will be required to manually deploy and retrieve fish traps, seines and gillnets, assist in the operation of a research vessel, identify, count, weigh, and measure fish and invertebrate species.

- Stomach contents of stranded dolphins and scat samples will be analysed for prey content. This will involve separating and identifying hard parts in scat and stomach samples. Volunteers may also have the opportunity to assist with post mortem examinations of stranded dolphins.

- Spatial analysis to determine foraging "hot spots" will be carried out using point observational data. Assistants will be required to assist in the creation of data layers by entering data into an ArcGIS format and learn to use some basic GIS tools.

- Fish, invertebrate, and marine plant samples will be collected and prepared for stable isotope analysis. Volunteers may also be required to assist in the biopsying of dolphins for stable isotope work.

- Data entry and management, equipment maintenance, and other office and lab tasks will be required.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Mandatory:

-Primary requirement is a good attitude, work ethic, and ability to work in a physically demanding environment. This can include long hours in extreme weather conditions and long days on the water. Hauling fish traps and nets is physically demanding work. Volunteers must be able to repeatedly lift over 23 kg (~51 lbs).

-Must be able to commit to a minimum of one month. People able to commit for longer periods will be preferred.

Preferred, but not mandatory

-Undergraduate degree in the biological sciences

-Previous field work experience, specifically with fisheries or marine mammals

-Experience using ArcGIS or similar spatial analysis software

-Experience managing large datasets

-Experience operating vessels up to 7 meters in length

COMPENSATION:

Regrettably volunteers will be required to arrange their own transportation to Bunbury, accommodation and all living expenses. (Backpackers and rooms in shared houses are available for approximately AU$90/week). Schedules may be flexible to allow volunteers to work on a part-time basis if legally able in Australia (e.g. possession of a working holiday visa). Academic credit may be earned if arranged through your local institution. Valuable field and lab experience in the ecological sciences will be gained through participation in this project.

HOW TO APPLY:

Please send a CV, letter of interest, and at least one letter of reference to:

Shannon McCluskey
Murdoch University Cetacean Research Unit
c/o Dolphin Discovery Centre
Bunbury, Western Australia 6230

or electronically to: S.McCluskey@murdoch.edu.au

LINKS OF INTEREST:

Murdoch University Cetacean Research Unit: http://www.cffr.murdoch.edu.au/mucru/

Dolphin Discovery Centre: http://dolphins.mysouthwest.com.au/

Information on Bunbury: http://www.mybunbury.com/

http://www.travelau.com.au/wa/bunbury/

Empleo: Hawaii!!

JIMAR PIFSC DATA MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS SPECIALIST ?
ID# 29403.
Joint Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Research.

Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the School
of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST), Joint Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Research (JIMAR), located at the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center (PIFSC) in Honolulu, Hawaii. Continuation of employment is dependent upon program/operational needs, satisfactory work performance and availability of funds.

MINIMUM MONTHLY SALARY: $3,222/Mon.

DUTIES:

- Assumes lead role in monk seal application development team.
- Develops, implements, modifies and maintains application systems for data checking, viewing, editing, analyzing, summarization, and report generation.
- Develops, implements, enhances, and maintains new or improved data management systems and general program operating procedures for existing data and field data collection.
- Provides technical and non-technical assistance and instruction on the acquisition and use of computer hardware and database programs to other staff.

PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS:
EDUCATION:
- Bachelor's Degree from an accredited four (4) year college or university in Computer Science.
EXPERIENCE:
- Five to seven (5-7) years of work experience in the design of computer programs dealing with biological data, including design and programming of database applications.
ABIL/KNOW/SKILLS:
- Knowledge of system design, programming procedures, SQL, PL/SQL visual basic, FORTRAN or PASCAL, as well as third party libraries (Object Professional, B-Tree Filer, and other DOS Protected mode complaint data base applications.)
- Familiarity with networking personal computer conventions, various types of data storage media and file organization.
- Ability to prepare well-organized and complete documentation of developed systems and procedures.
- Working knowledge of personal computer peripherals running the MS WINDOWS family operating systems.

Post Offer/Employment Conditions:
Must meet the US Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration security requirements for working in a federal facility which includes being fingerprinted and having a federal background check performed.

SECONDARY QUALIFICATIONS:
- Master?s Degree from an accredited college or university in Computer Science, Database Design, or related field.
- Experience working in remote areas, deploying hardware and software
into remote areas, or troubleshooting systems remotely.
- Proficiency with standard tools used in Unix/Linux environments.
- Experience using ORACLE, MSDE2000, MS Access and/ or other ODBC compliant software packages.
- Background in statistical and analytical programming, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Global Positioning System (GPS) data and data communications protocols.

INQUIRIES: Nicole Wakazuru 956-9465 (Oahu).
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS:
The preferred method of applying for a job is through our on-line application process. Please go to:
www.rcuh.com
click on "Employment" and navigate to "Job/Announcements/Apply for a Job."

However, if you do not have access to the Internet, you may apply by submitting resume; cover letter including Recruitment ID#, referral source, narrative of your qualifications for position and salary history; names, phone numbers and addresses of three supervisory references and copy of degree(s)/transcripts/certificate(s) to qualify for position by fax (808) 956-5022

or mail to:
Director of Human Resources,
Research Corporation of the University of Hawaii,
2530 Dole Street, Sakamaki
Hall D-100, Honolulu,
HI 96822

before the closing date. If you have questions on the application process and/or need assistance, please call (808)956-3100.

CLOSING DATE: October 12, 2009.

Voluntariado: delfín oscuro en Texas!!

Dusky dolphin internship positions

I am seeking 2 volunteer interns to assist with analyses of dusky dolphin foraging behaviors/vocalizations. These positions will be through the Marine Mammal Research Program, Texas A&M University at Galveston, in Bernd W?rsig?s lab. Positions are unpaid, and we are unable to provide housing. However, each intern will be included as a co-author on the resulting publication/s. Intern positions will be 30-40 hours per week.

Intern (1) will assist with quantification of underwater foraging behaviors. Our objectives here are to a) describe prey herding and capturing behaviors, and b) examine relationships between these behaviors, dolphin party size, and prey ball size. This intern will quantify behaviors (e.g., numbers/types of prey capture attempts, duration of within 2-m passes by the prey ball) using Quicktime, and summarize temporal parameters using Microsoft Excel. Duration of this position is Jan. 5-May 7, with the potential option of continuing through summer.

Intern (2) will assist with analysis of dolphin vocalizations during foraging. Our objectives with these analyses are to a) describe vocalizations, and b) examine vocalization functions (e.g., echolocation/communication) during foraging. This intern will identify vocalizations using Adobe Audition, quantify parameters for each vocalization using a custom Matlab script, and objectively categorize vocalizations. Duration of this position is Jan. 19-May 21, with the potential option of continuing through summer.

To apply, please email a letter of interest, CV, transcript/s and 2 letters of recommendation by Nov. 27 to:

Robin Vaughn
Ph.D. Candidate
Marine Mammal Research Program
Texas A&M University
Galveston, TX 77551
vaughnrl@tamu.edu

Empleo: Tromso!!

Research scientist in ecotoxicology

The Norwegian Polar Institute is looking for a research scientist with expertise in the field of environmental contaminants and biological effects of these, particularly focusing on the effects of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and heavy metals in marine organisms. Through the newly established Centre for Ice, Climate and Ecosystems (ICE) at the Norwegian Polar Institute, this field of research is being intensified.
We seek to fill this permanent position as soon as possible.

Tasks

The Norwegian Polar Institute seeks a research scientist to work with research related to monitoring of persistent organic pollutants/heavy metals and the effects of these in Arctic organisms, sea birds and mammals. It is of crucial importance that the scientific focus and results, and also the projects the successful candidate will be involved in, are treated in an ecosystem perspective. The scientist is expected to work multidisciplinary and closely with biologists, oceanographers and
sea ice researchers. The successful candidate is an expert in the field of environmental monitoring. The position includes laboratory work and field studies in Svalbard, in addition to serving as an adviser in issues of environmental management related to environmental contaminants in the Arctic.

Qualifications

We are looking for a candidate who holds a Ph.D. degree within relevant disciplines.

Salary

The salary will commensurate with the qualifications of the successful candidate, according to the Norwegian State salary code 1109 - 1183, scale 57 - 68 (NOK 435.500 - 533.300) = 62000 euros anuales!!!

General

The work place is the Norwegian Polar Institute in Tromso, Norway. The position is open, and the successful candidate should be able to start as soon as possible.

For further details please contact Section Head ecotoxicology Geir Wing Gabrielsen, tel. +47 7775 0529, e-mail
jobb@npolar.no

or Staff Manager Rita Brannfjell, tel. +47 7775 0613, e-mail jobb@npolar.no

The Norwegian State Administration strives to mirror the diversity of its population and thereby achieve a balanced mix of age, gender and ethnic backgrounds among its employees. Hence, candidates with immigrant backgrounds and women are encouraged to apply for the position.

The application deadline is 18 September 2009. Applications should include CV, names of at least two references, a list of publications and details of your relevant qualifications and experience. The NPI prefers electronic applications, submitted at www.jobbnorge.no

If this is not feasible, printed applications may be submitted to the Norwegian Polar Institute, Polar Environmental Centre, NO-9296 Tromso, Norway.

All applications can be handled confidentially until the application deadline. Thereafter, a public list of applicants will be prepared. Applicants who wish to reserve their applications from the public list must give reasons for this in their applications. In accordance with new public information laws, information about an applicant can be made public even if the applicant has requested not be included from the public list of applicants, cf.

Empleo: Seattle!

Job Announcement: Fisheries Research Scientist

Position: Scientist I working for a NOAA contractor on a temporary contract of approximately 1 year.

Project Title: Antarctic Pack Ice Seals (APIS) analyses

Education and Experience: PH.D degree in Biology or related science with emphasis in fisheries, oceanography or natural science. Three (3) years experience with marine mammal surveys, abundance estimation, and statistical analyses are required.

Location: Alaska Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Mammal Lab (NMML), Seattle, WA. Data processing and analysis will be done at NMML and no field work is anticipated.

Duties: Full time position, 40 hours per week.

Duties to be performed under this task order include but are not limited to conducting research on the abundance, trends, and distribution of Antarctic pack ice seals. The main focus will be to estimate the abundance of Antarctic pack-ice seals (crabeater, leopard, Ross, and Weddell seals) from three separate and disparate, but geographically overlapping, survey efforts (between 26oW and 4oE) in the Queen Maud Land region and South Atlantic sector of the Antarctic.

Specific deliverables are required to be accomplished by due dates specified in work assignments and submitted to the NMFS Project Leader for approval and acceptance.

The successful candidate will work as a member of a scientific team, but will have the lead for undertaking the data processing and analyses as agreed in consultation with the team. This work will involve evaluating scientific literature and compiling data from a wide variety of sources. Previous experience with marine mammal surveys, abundance estimation, and statistical analyses are required.

Salary: based on $28.52 per hour plus paid medical and dental plan

Please email resumes to the attention of Cal Goo at officeafl@hawaii.rr.com

Position start date currently scheduled for October 1, 2009

Calinda "Cal" Goo
Aquatic Farms
49-139 Kamehameha Hwy
Kaneohe, HI. 96734
(808) 239-2929
FAX: (808) 239-8436

Voluntariado: elefantes marinos!

POSITION: Volunteer field helper for elephant seal research

DURATION: 3 months, September-November 2009

CONTACT: Filippo Galimberti, fil_esrg@eleseal.org

We have an urgent needing for an extra volunteer field helper for the 2009 field season of a long term project on southern elephant seals carried out by the Elephant Seal Research Group. The field work site is Sea Lion Island (Falkland Islands). More details on the project are available on the research team web site: www.eleseal.org.

One of our field helper had a serious family problem and so is not able to come. The field work season starts very soon, and the other helpers are arriving in the Falklands on September 5th. We are looking for candidates wishing to arrive the same date, or with a maximum delay
of one week. There is only one flight per week, from Santiago (Chile) on Saturday.

Successful applicants will receive adequate training and will help with tagging, marking, counts, behavioral observations, handling of pups, and collection of biological sampling. Volunteers will be
supervised by the PIs and/or by trained technicians. Previous experience of field work is appreciated but not essential. The field season runs for approximately 3 months, from the beginning of September to the end of November. Only applicants who can stay for the whole season can be taken into consideration. Applicants should pay all expenses required to get to the field work site, and telephone/Internet expenses while at Sea Lion Island. Accommodation at Sea Lion Island is rather basic and self-catering. Applicants will be required to work for the whole length of the day, seven days per week (with half day per week of rest). The work is physically demanding, and it is often carried out in rather bad weather conditions. People without a good tolerance to cold are discouraged to apply. The island is a wonderful place with a rich and tame wildlife.

To apply please send a cover letter describing your interest in the position and a CV or resume to Filippo Galimberti at fil_esrg@eleseal.org, and copy to fil_esrg@prodigy.net.mx. Contact information for one or more references is appreciated but not essential. Due to the very close deadline, the first candidate with an acceptable CV will be selected.

Thanks.

The ESRG team

Filippo Galimberti, PhD
Elephant Seal Research Group
fil_esrg@eleseal.org
www.eleseal.org

Empleo: Seattle!!! - upper trophic level studies

ob Announcement: Fisheries Research Scientist

Position: Biotech III working for a NOAA contractor on a temporary contract of approximately 1 year.

Project Title: Upper Trophic Level Ecosystem Studies

Education and Experience: Masters Degree in Biology or related science with emphasis in fisheries, oceanography or natural science. Three (3) years experience with marine mammal surveys, abundance estimation, and statistical analyses are required. A Bachelors Degree and at least five years of experience related directly to the research requirement may substitute for the Masters Degree requirement.

Location: Alaska Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Mammal Lab (NMML), Seattle, WA. Literature review, data processing and analysis will be done at NMML and no field work is anticipated.

Duties: Full time position, 40 hours per week.

Duties to be performed under this task order include but are not limited to conducting research on the abundance, trends, and distribution of marine mammals and birds in the North Pacific, Bering Sea, and Okhotsk Sea. The successful candidate will serve as the lead for compiling data bases,reviewing literature and managing data in the context of ecosystem change and will work with collaborators in Russia, Washington, California, Oregon, Alaska and British Columbia to access data and acquire metadata.

Specific deliverables are required to be accomplished by due dates specified in work assignments and submitted to the NMFS Project Leader for approval and acceptance.

The successful candidate will work as a member of a scientific team, but will have the lead for undertaking the data processing and analyses as agreed in consultation with the team. This work will involve evaluating scientific literature and compiling data from a wide variety of sources. Previous experience with marine mammal surveys, abundance estimation, and statistical analyses are required.

Salary: based on $23.57 per hour plus medical and dental plan

Please email resumes to the attention of Cal Goo at officeafl@hawaii.rr.com

Calinda "Cal" Goo
Aquatic Farms
49-139 Kamehameha Hwy
Kaneohe, HI. 96734
(808) 239-2929
FAX: (808) 239-8436

Eventos Internacionales: Tromso!

The scientific conference of Arctic Frontiers 2010 (27-29 January 2010 in Tromso, Norway) consists of three parallel sessions. The topic for Session II will be social science and health research relating to the economy, self-governance and well-being in Arctic communities. Sessions I and III will be on the effects of ongoing climatic changes on sea-ice and marine biodiversity.

. Session I: Ice and climate, including paleo climate
. Session II: Sustainable communities in the High North
. Session III: Marine Biodiversity under change

We kindly invite you to submit abstracts for oral and poster presentations on these topics.

DEADLINE for submission of abstracts: 19 October 2009.
For full details and instructions on submitting an abstract please see the Arctic Frontiers homepage: www.arctic-frontiers.com.



With best regards
Arntraut G?tsch (arntraut.gotsch@akvaplan.niva.no) and
Marianne Frantzen (marianne.frantzen@akvaplan.niva.no)
Local organizing committee

Empleo: Alaska!!

Job Announcement: Fisheries Bio Tech I Position: Bio Tech I working for a NOAA contractor on a temporary contract of approximately 6 months. Project Title: Bibliographic Technician for literature pertaining to Alaska seal populations Education and Experience: Bachelor's Degree in Biology or related science with emphasis in fisheries, oceanography or natural science. At least one (1) year of experience with scientific literature searches, database management and the use of database software for organizing references. The successful candidate must be meticulous and efficient. Previous experience and knowledge of pinniped behavior and ecology literature and management of literature and imagery data bases is desirable. Location: Alaska Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Mammal Lab (NMML), Seattle, WA. Duties: Full time position, 40 hours per week. The Bio Tech I's primary duties will be to search online literature databases, collect electronic and hard-copy references, and add bibliographic records to the Polar Ecosystem's reference library. Experience with database software, especially those designed for organizing references, is essential. The contractor may occasionally be required to assist with organizing the aerial survey image database and to enumerate seals from aerial survey photographs of coastal and/or sea ice habitats. Literature research, database organization, and scanning imagery for seals all require attention to detail and ability to stay focused during repetitive tasks. Salary: based on $17.21 per hour plus medical and dental plan Please email resumes to the attention of Cal Goo at officeafl@hawaii.rr.com Position start date currently scheduled for October 1, 2009 Calinda "Cal" Goo Aquatic Farms 49-139 Kamehameha Hwy Kaneohe, HI. 96734 (808) 239-2929 FAX: (808) 239-8436

Empleo: especialista en varamientos!!

Stranding Technician- Research Specialist

Coastal Carolina University invites applications for a Stranding Technician position to perform laboratory and field work related to marine mammal strandings in South Carolina. This is a one-year, grant-funded position in the Department of Marine Science, but the position will be primarily based in Charleston, SC, and will work closely with the Marine Mammal Strandings and Life History Program at the National Ocean Service Laboratory in Charleston. Laboratory and field duties include, but are not limited to: 1) assisting in the retrieval and necropsy of dead stranded marine mammals, 2) assisting in the archiving of marine mammal tissues, 3) marine mammal skeletal preparation, 4) data entry into existing marine mammal databases, and 5) education/public outreach. Salary is $30,000 and includes full benefits. Position begins immediately.

Qualifications: The candidate should have a B.S. degree in biology, marine science, or a related field from an accredited institution, be available to work weekends and holidays to respond to marine mammal strandings, and be able to work in adverse weather conditions. Good communication skills are a must. Knowledge of boat operation and computers are required. Knowledge of life history methods, such as reproductive analysis, and marine mammal anatomy are preferred.

Interested candidates should apply online at http://jobs.coastal.edu or in person at the Office of Human Resources and Equal Opportunity, Coastal Carolina University, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

Coastal Carolina University is an EO/AA employer.

_____________________________
Rob Young
Coordinator, South Carolina Marine Mammal Stranding Network
Professor, Department of Marine Science
Coastal Carolina University
PO Box 261954
Conway, SC? 29528-6054
ryoung@coastal.edu

Actividades: cursos Bahamas & Honduras!

The Dolphin Communication Project (DCP), a non-profit research and education organization, is offering two college-level courses for university students to learn more about cetacean ecology and delphinid behavior. Both topics present classes that are set within the frameworks of their parent disciplines of field ecology and animal behavior.

Both of DCP's college courses offer field and classroom components with effort and hours per course equivalent to that of a three-credit university course. Each course is unique in location (international site) and scheduling.

Bimini Cetacean Ecology - Professors coordinate with DCP's Bimini Research Manager to schedule one to two week courses at times convenient with that school's academic calendar. These classes typically include students from a single university and can be scheduled for any time during the year (though seasonal weather should be considered when scheduling dates). Learn more about our Bimini Cetacean Ecology Field Course at: http://tinyurl.com/pm7n6g

RIMS Dolphin Behavior - This three-credit equivalent course is offered by DCP to interested students from different universities. DCP's RIMS dolphin behavior course runs from 4 - 25 January 2010 with a field component from 7 - 16 January 2010 in Roatan, Honduras at Anthony's Key Resort. The non-field portion of the course is held via distance learning through web connections. Learn more about our RIMS Dolphin Behavior Course at: http://tinyurl.com/q7lt79

If you would like to receive a copy of our one-page color flyer to post on campus and share with students, please let us know (info@dcpmail.org). We will then email the PDF file to you such that you can share it with other professors, interested students, and various offices on your campus. Or you can download the flyer from either of the links above.

Thank you for your time and consideration. We look forward to hearing from you and to introducing your students to the experiences of scientific field work soon! For an abbreviated list of publications by DCP researchers, please see the end of this email. For a full listing, including student theses and dissertations, visit the publications section of our website: http://tinyurl.com/lymsf4

Cheers
Kathleen Dudzinski, Ph.D
Kelly Melillo, MSc.


-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kelly Melillo
Research Associate, Bimini Research Manager
Dolphin Communication Project

www.dolphincommunicationproject.org
www.thedolphinpod.com

Empleo: Florida!

Wildlife Trust Right Whale Aerial Survey Observers

Job Announcement

Wildlife Trust, a non-profit international research and conservation organization, is seeking temporary, seasonal aerial observers for marine
mammal surveys from November 2009 through April 2010. These observer positions are in anticipation of research activities to be conducted in the southeast United States, specifically coastal Georgia and South Carolina. This project would require observers to fly up to four days per week, up to eight hours per day in a small, twin engine, high wing aircraft primarily to locate North Atlantic right whales in the Southeast U.S. calving ground. Surveys will be flown daily, weather permitting, and observers must be willing to work weekends and holidays during the survey period. Observers will be required to participate in aviation and marine safety and survival training.

This is a temporary, 40 hour/week position at a salary rate of $14/hr.
Health benefits are not provided with this position. Housing will be provided for the duration of the project. These positions are contingent
upon funding.

Qualifications:

Previous aerial or marine mammal survey experience and experience in
photo-identification of large cetaceans is strongly desired. Applicants
should be experienced in database entry and other computer applications
including photo processing software. The ability to live and work well in a
team environment and withstand up to 8 hours per day in a small aircraft is required. We are currently accepting applications from US citizens and
permanent residents.

Application Process:

Please send cover letter, resume, and three references to
taylor@wildlifetrust.org by September 18, 2009.

Cynthia Taylor
Aquatic Conservation Program
Wildlife Trust
233 Third St. N., Suite 300
St. Petersburg, FL 33701 USA
941.232.4587
www.wildlifetrust.org

Eventos internacionales: taller filogenia!

This is the last announcement for the workshop on Phylogenetic Tools For Cetacean Studies that will take place on October 11th a day before the 18th Biennial Conference. CLOSING REGISTRATION DATE IS SEPTEMBER 9TH. The workshop website for specific information and materials is:

http://sites.google.com/site/phylogeneticcetacean/

*Theme of the workshop*:
Two simple phylogenetic tools for cetacean studies: analyzes of independent contrasts and conservation priorities. In 1985 Felsenstein work on "Phylogenetic Independence" changed the way biologists nowadays test hypotheses in comparative studies of behavior, acoustics, conservation, physiology, etc, emphasizing the need to account for phylogenetic relationship among species. Nevertheless, many mammalian studies continue to use standard statistical methods, often ignoring the problem of non-independence. Standard regression analyses fail to acknowledge that similarity in the character in question may be due to common ancestry. Failing to account for known dependencies among related species can give misleading results, which is why methods such as 'independent contrasts' are becoming the standard for analyzing how parameters relate to one another. Phylogenies also can inform on conservation. Much information exists on extinction risk of species (e.g. IUCN categories), but risk of extinction alone may not be a good guide to how to allocate conservation effort. Species may differ dramatically in the unique evolutionary history they preserve. For example the duck billed platypus represent an ancient lineage represented very few extant species.

Extinction of such species would thus erase much unique evolutionary history. In contrast, any single species of Hawaiian Drosophila represents relatively little unique evolutionary history for much of its history is preserved in numerous close relatives. We will discuss a newly developed
method that uses both extinction risk, as well as phylogenetic diversity, to assess conservation priorities. We will provide attendees with data matrices that will be used in the workshop. We will demonstrate how the evolutionary analysis packet Mesquite can be used to analyze phylogenetically independent contrasts, and to assess conservation priorities. We hope that the workshop provides people with a better understanding of the importance and use of phylogenetics to address evolutionary questions in our field, and in particular familiarize attendees with the use of two simple but important methods.

Organizers: Laura J. May-Collado & Ingi Agnarsson

Date: October 11, 2009

Time: 9am - 12 a.m. (Half Day)

Location: RM 202

Cost: $25 CAN (payment at location)

Registration cost will include hot and cold drinks, snacks, and visual
equipment.


--
Laura J. May-Collado, Ph.D.
Associate Researcher & Instructor
Department of Biology
University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras
Office CN326
Phone:1-787-7640000 Ext2584

Voluntariado: Tierra de Fuego!!

Pasantía en Tierra de Fuego para Estudiantes o graduados de Biología y Veterinaria en el MUSEO ACATUSHÚN de Aves y Mamíferos Marinos

Estancia Harberton, Canal Beagle

( www.acatushun.com )

Se ofrece una pasantía voluntaria de trabajo/estudio de un mes de duración mínima, desde mediados de octubre a mediados de abril, para estudiantes o graduados en biología, veterinaria o áreas afines.

El Museo cubre los gastos de hospedaje y comida, los pasantes deben costear el pasaje hasta Ushuaia.

Las investigaciones se realizan a través del PROYECTO AMMA: Estudios de Aves y Mamíferos Marinos Australes, estudio a largo plazo que comenzó en 1974-75 dirigido por la Dra. R. Natalie P. Goodall para aprender sobre la biología básica de los cetáceos (delfines, marsopas, ballenas) de Tierra del Fuego y el sur de la Patagonia, a través de animales varados (muertos) encontrados en las playas o tomados incidentalmente en operaciones de pesca.

OPORTUNIDAD para CONOCER las aves y mamíferos marinos australes.

Limpieza, rotulado, curación y armado de esqueletos de delfines y aves.

Asistencia a necropsias de delfines y aves.

Transmisión de los conocimientos a visitantes del museo.

INFORMACIÓN Y ENTREVISTAS: Mónica Torres , Silvana Finochiaro.

pasantiamuseo@gmail.com
www.acatushun.com

Voluntariafo: manatíes en Belize!

We are filling volunteer placements for one month slots from September 1st onwards, and will need two to three volunteers in place at any one time.

During these first months, 24 hour care is essential, with feeds every three hours, day and night, making human resources one of the limiting constraints, and making volunteer assistance particularly valuable.

The Belize Manatee Rehabilitation Centre is a completely voluntary facility established by Wildtracks (a Belize non-profit organization) to respond to individual manatee rehab requirements on a calf by calf basis. As such, whilst we can provide accommodation, volunteers would need to be able to get themselves to Belize, have travel insurance cover, and be able to contribute US$65 per week towards food costs.

Work is shared between volunteers and involves manatee care (food preparation/feeding/clean-up and working with the calf), emptying, cleaning, filling and maintenance of the pools, keeping records, and writing monthly reports. As the calf grows older, and requires less individual attention, there will also be public awareness activities and visits to schools in the idyllic, local fishing community of Sarteneja, one of the stakeholder communities of Corozal Bay Wildlife Sanctuary (established to protect the West Indian Manatee). There are also
opportunities to work with the local conservation organization - Sarteneja Alliance for Conservation and Development - which is taking on co-management of Corozal Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, one of Belize's manatee strongholds.

Wildtracks is located approximately two miles south of Sarteneja, in northern Belize, overlooking the Shipstern Lagoon system.

Accommodation is basic, with shared thatched, screened cabanas (sorry - no air conditioning or fans!), with adjoining bathrooms. However, there is generally a breeze coming off the lagoon, keeping temperatures lower than further inland. Food preparation and consumption are both social occasions, with everyone contributing towards cooking and washing up. Both vegetarians and non-vegetarians are welcome.

Zoe Walker (office@wildtracksbelize.org)
================================
Posted by:
Caryn Self-Sullivan, Ph.D.
President & Co-founder, Sirenian International
Temporary Assistant Professor, Georgia Southern University
Mobile: 540.287.8207 | Fax: 540.242.9196
Email: caryns@sirenian.org or cselfsullivan@georgiasouthern.edu

The mission of Sirenian International is to promote the long-term conservation of manatee and dugong populations and our shared aquatic habitats around the world through research, educational outreach, and capacity building. Please remember us when budgeting for your charitable donations.
Adopt a Mermaid Ambassador or Donate online at
http://www.sirenian.org .

Voluntariado: Florida!

Dolphin Research Internships

Dolphin Research Center (DRC) is currently accepting applications for Research Interns for the Winter term. DRC is a not-for-profit education and research facility, home to a family of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins and California sea lions. DRC is located on Grassy Key, in the heart of the
Florida Keys.

Internships at DRC are an exciting way to develop career skills as well as an opportunity to get "behind the scenes" to see how a marine mammal facility operates. Research interns participate in DRC's ongoing research projects, giving them broad exposure to a variety of research methodologies.

Interns receive extensive on-the-job training in observing marine mammal behavior, collecting observational data, working with research equipment, and assisting with experimental research sessions.

Specific job duties include:
* Collecting observational behavioral data
* Preparing stimuli for experimental research sessions
* Assisting in setting up and tearing down equipment for experimental research sessions
* Operating video equipment
* Entering or scanning data into the computer for analysis
* General support of the facility through participation in the volunteer resource pool (facility maintenance, bird care, assisting with public programs, guest interactions, etc.)

Publications:
Jaakkola, K., Fellner, W., Erb, L., Rodriguez, A. M., & Guarino, E. (2005). Understanding the concept of numerically "less" by bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus). Journal of Comparative Psychology.

Jaakkola, K., Guarino, E., Rodriguez, M., Erb, L., & Trone, M. (in press). What do dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) understand about hidden objects? Animal Cognition, Online first. Published online 19 June 2009, DOI 10.1007/s10071-009-0250-z.

Internships require a minimum of a 16-week commitment, 40 hours per week.

The internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for providing their own housing. DRC will provide assistance in locating housing and/or matching up interns and volunteers desiring roommates. Successful candidates will be ready and willing to learn, self-motivated, and flexible. Prior research experience is recommended but not required.

The deadline to apply is *** October 1st***.
To apply, you must download the application available at www.dolphins.org. Click "Help DRC", and then "Volunteer / Intern Opportunities".

The application, and all associated materials (resume, transcript, and letters of rec.) must be mailed to DRC.

--------------------------------
Emily Guarino
Administrative Director of Research
emily@dolphins.org
Dolphin Research Center
58901 Overseas Hwy.
Grassy Key, FL 33050