jueves, 17 de enero de 2008

Voluntariado: Manatí!

Manatee Tracking Project Research Intern or Volunteer

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's (FWC) Marine Mammal Research Group is looking for two motivated interns or volunteers to serve for the upcoming spring-summer session in St. Petersburg, FL.

Position description: The intern's primary responsibility is to assist researchers in the Manatee Behavioral Ecology Program with tracking manatees in southwest Florida. The principle aim of this study is to characterize manatee response to watercraft in their natural environment using state-of-the-art multi-sensor digital acoustic recording tags and satellite-linked GPS technology. The successful applicant will record behavioral observations of individual tagged manatees and operational information of vessel traffic from small boats.
Other duties include equipment maintenance, data entry, various office tasks, and public outreach as needed. Interns are expected to work Friday to Monday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; however, some morning and evening hours may be required to utilize daylight and maximize data collection. Applicants should understand that this job requires them to be wet, dirty, and outdoors in all weather conditions.

This position is unpaid; housing is not provided, and interns must provide their own transportation to and from the office. Lodging and transportation are provided while at the field site.

Qualifications:
* Must be college junior or senior for internship credit; volunteers do not need to meet this qualification
* Must have basic computer proficiency
* Some field research experience with animals preferred
* Should be comfortable speaking to the public while in the field
* Ability to trailer and operate watercraft up to 22' in length is desired, but training will be provided
* Experience with radio telemetry tracking gear is desirable, but training will be provided
* Must be able to swim
* Preference given to applicants who possess a valid US driver's license

Application Process: We are currently accepting applications for the spring-summer 2008 session (April- August).

Internships, which ideally last three to four months, require a minimum ten-week commitment. Starting and ending dates are flexible. Please indicate in your cover letter the position for which you are applying. Please send a hard copy of your resume with your cover letter, college transcripts (unofficial are sufficient if not applying for internship credit), a list three references and contact information to the following address:

Dr. William S. Arnold- Internship Coordinator
FWC Fish and Wildlife Research Institute
100 8th Avenue SE
St. Petersburg, FL 33701-3095

You can also send your application by e-mail to: ManateeInterns@myfwc.com
For Information on FWRI:http://research.MyFWC.com/
For More Information on FWRIInternships:
http://research.myfwc.com/education/category_sub.asp?id=5148

Voluntariado: Pinnípedos!

PINNIPED RESCUE/REHABILITATION INTERNSHIP

The Northcoast Marine Mammal Center in Crescent City, CA seeks applicants for a spring and summer internship working with stranded seals and sea lions.

The spring internship starts April 2008 and the summer internship starts July 2008. Start and end dates are flexible with the chosen interns.

This is an unpaid position and chosen interns are responsible for travel and housing may be provided for qualified applicants.

Description: The internship is designed to give exceptional hands-on experience with stranded pinnipeds in a rehabilitation setting including Pacific harbor seals, Northern elephant seals, California sea lions and potentially Steller sea lions and Northern fur seals. The interns will work closely with NMMC staff and volunteers in all aspects of stranding response; assessments, rescue, transport, rehabilitation, medical procedures, necropsies, record keeping and research projects and education outreach.

Qualifications: The internship is open to all applicants at least 18 years or older. Undergraduates, veterinary students and recent graduates are encourage to apply.

Internships for academic credit are the responsibility of the chosen intern. Interns must be willing to work a flexible work schedule which includes weekends and holidays. Interns should be in good physical health and strength and have the ability to lift and carry 50 lbs. Interns must be able to work amongst a diverse group of new and veteran volunteers.

Applying: Interested individuals should send a cover letter indicating spring or summer internship, and a resume including three references to be considered.

Send to:
Lanni Hall,
DirectorNorthcoast Marine Mammal Center
424 Howe Drive
Crescent City, CA
95531
(707) 465-6265
or email to: lhall@northcoastmmc.org
or fax to: (707) 465-6292

Application deadline for spring internship is February 15, 2008 and summer internship is March 14, 2008.

Actualidad: El ruido en la costa catalana.


Un equipo de científicos del Laboratorio de Aplicaciones Bioacústicas (LAB) de la Universidad Politécnica de Cataluña ha elaborado un mapa acústico submarino de la costa catalana que registra los niveles de ruido submarino provocados por el tráfico marítimo durante todo el año.

Los puertos de Barcelona y de Tarragona son las zonas que registran la mayor contaminación sonora, con picos de 190 dB, que pueden dañar los sistemas acústicos y de ecolocalización de los cetáceos.

Indirectamente, el ruido submarino también afecta al resto de la cadena alimentaria, explica Michel André, responsable del LAB y coordinador del proyecto. Los más afectados son el delfín listado (Stenella coeruleoalba), que habita en la Costa Brava, y el mular (Tursiops truncatus), frecuente en el delta del Ebro.

Durante tres meses, el velero científico Íbero, de la campaña "La Caixa a favor del mar", ha registrado con la ayuda de 102 estaciones acústicas la firma sonora de cinco tipos de embarcación que navegan por el Mediterráneo y los niveles sonoros de los cetáceos más habituales en la costa catalana.

El mapa interactivo se encuentra en la página: www.lab.upc.es/mapa y permite simular con imágenes y sonido la contaminación acústica de cualquier zona del litoral en distintas horas del día y épocas del año.

En 2009, el mapa cubrirá todo el litoral español, según explicó Xavier Bertolín, director de Medio Ambiente de la Obra Social de La Caixa, que patrocina el proyecto.

La actividad humana en el último siglo ha aumentado tanto que la contaminación acústica se ha convertido en una amenaza para el equilibrio marino: desde el transporte marítimo a la explotación y producción en alta mar de gas y petróleo, el sónar militar e industrial, las fuentes acústicas experimentales, las cargas explosivas submarinas y los aviones supersónicos.

Estos investigadores proponen medidas: insonorizar los motores de las embarcaciones y crear rutas marítimas adecuadas. Por ello colaboran con el Ministerio de Medio Ambiente para elaborar una normativa que regule el ruido en el mar. Este grupo experimenta en la entrada del puerto de Vilanova un muro sonoro con burbujas de aire que impida la transmisión del ruido al exterior y ha comenzado a estudiar el impacto del ruido submarino durante el ciclo vital de cefalópodos y peces.

LINKS:

miércoles, 16 de enero de 2008

Actualidad: Crece la tensión entre Japón y Australia.


Aumenta la tensión entre los balleneros japoneses y los ecologistas australianos que acusan a los pescadores de retener contra su voluntad a dos militantes en la Antártida, lo que provocó la intervención de las autoridades de ambos países.


Balleneros japoneses realizan desde diciembre una faena destinada a cazar a unos mil rorcuales aliblancos o Minke (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) en la Antártida. Greenpeace y el movimiento de protección de la naturaleza australiano Sea Sheperd enviaron barcos al lugar para impedirles actuar.


El martes, dos militantes de Sea Sheperd abordaron uno de los balleneros. Una vez a bordo del navío, entregaron a los japoneses una orden del tribunal federal de Sidney que prohibía a Japón cazar ballenas en las aguas denominadas "santuario" de la Antártida.


Según Paul Watson, dirigente de Sea Sheperd, el Instituto japonés de Investigación sobre los Cetáceos advirtió de que "los rehenes sólo serán liberados" si su movimiento acepta "no perturbar la caza de ballenas".


El gobierno australiano pidió a las autoridades japonesas que faciliten la liberación de los dos ecologistas.


Tokio desmintió esta versión de los hechos y afirmó que el ballenero japonés "había enviado mensajes" al navío de Sea Sheperd para intentar entregar a los dos hombres, pero que el grupo ecologista "no respondió", de acuerdo con el gobierno japonés.


LINKS:




viernes, 11 de enero de 2008

Empleo: Financiación proyectos en Golfo de Méjico.

Please note that the following funding that has become available:

The Mississippi-Alabama Sea Grant Consortium, in partnership with the National Marine Fisheries Service, has announced a request for research proposals for projects aimed at enhancing conservation of bottlenose dolphins in the Gulf of Mexico.

Up to $80,000 is available through this funding opportunity.

Proposals must focus on innovative and practical ways to help dolphins survive in the wild. Research topics may include:
*Characterizing various aspects of human interactions (i.e. dolphin tourism, feeding, harassment, etc.) with wild bottlenose dolphins;
*Assessing dolphin depredation on recreational and commercial fisheries;
*Providing a comprehensive outreach strategy to inform the public of harmful interactions.

The full funding announcement, including priorities and submission guidelines, can be viewed at http://www.masgc.org/funding/dolphinRFP.pdf.

The deadline for proposals is Feb. 1.

For details, contact Mississippi-Alabama Sea Grant Consortium Director
LaDon Swann at (251) 648-5877 or swanndl@auburn.edu

Erin Foug?res
NOAA/NMFS/SER
Stranding Program Administrator
263 13^th Avenue South
St. Petersburg,
FL 33701

Empleo: USA.

A national consulting firm is seeking an experienced Marine Scientist/Marine Mammal Biologist for our Plano, TX office.

The successful candidate would be responsible for scientific content on various environmental projects and contribute their marine mammal expertise to the existing Marine Sciences group. Projects include, but are not limited to, marine resources, environmental, and biological assessments.

Job duties include:
* Preparing the marine mammal sections of marine resources assessments and environmental assessment documents in support of NEPA, ESA, MMPA, CZCA, or the MSFCMA/SFA, as well as other projects;
* Researching, acquiring, and synthesizing marine mammal data and literature for use in environmental reports;
* Acting as a team leader/principal investigator with responsibility for specific projects or subject areas;
* Communicating with government, academic, and industry researchers and scientists;
* Preparing and giving presentations to clients, colleagues, or at scientific or military meetings;
* Participating in project team meetings and attend meetings with third parties/clients as required;
* Traveling to client locations, project sites, symposia or other meetings, or other GMI offices as required; and
* Analyzing protected species survey data, including application of statistical tests, as necessitated by projects.

Experience and Skills Required:
A background integrating living marine resources and their physical marine environment is essential. Two to five years experience working preferably for, but not limited to, a regulatory agency, consulting firm, or military environmental group.

The successful candidate will possess strong technical writing, organizational, analytical, and interpersonal skills as well as the ability to manage multiple tasks concurrently while functioning in an environment of changing priorities and time constraints.

Candidates possessing experience in marine mammal surveying/monitoring, SAS, ESRI GIS, and/or EndNote software, marine/aquatic field collections or monitoring, ,and familiarity with marine regulations/legislation will have the advantage. U.S. Navy experience, particularly with operations or training, is also a plus.

Education:
M.S. degree in Marine Biology, Wildlife or Environmental Management, or Oceanography with emphasis in coursework and experience related to the study of marine mammals.

We are presently accepting applications only from US Citizens and permanent residents. Interested candidates should submit a Resume and writing sample to Steve Silva,
Search Consultant;
steve.silva@tx.rr.com

Voluntariado: Nueva Inglaterra.

Marine Mammal Research Internships
(For a detailed description and application, please see our website at www.whalecenter.org/intern.htm

The Whale Center of New England, located in Gloucester, MA, is anon-profit research organization involved with the study of the behavior, ecology, and natural history of the whales and dolphins found in the waters off of Massachusetts. The Whale Center is also heavily involved with habitat conservation and education programs.

We are currently looking to fill research internships for the summer (May19-August 22) and fall (August 18 - December 19) semester of 2008 and for the spring (February 2 - May 29) semester of 2009.

Please note:
All positions are filled in the spring of each year.
*We also have oneopening for the spring 2008 semester (January 28-May 23) which will be filled on a first come first serve basis.

* The Whale Center of New England internship provides experience needed to further pursue fields in marine biology and animal behavior. It is our goal to provide college students and recent graduates with the opportunity to collect valuable information important to the marine mammal field and to see how this information is used in management and conservation efforts in this area.

Each internship session offers different experiences in marine mammal science that will depend on the season. These duties may include, but are not limited to: extensive photo-identification and computer work (training provided), field data collection aboard commercial whale watching vessels and our 27 research vessel Silver II, attendance at necropsies (whale autopsies), marine mammal stranding response, harbor seal surveys and attendance at conferences and meetings.

A fee of $1000 for the period will be charge and in return interns will receive housing and a $30 weekly food stipend.

A common apartment isused, where interns live together and share cooking and cleaning duties.Rooms are shared with one other person. A living arrangement such as this is conductive to open discussion and interaction between peers and home life is often a continuation of the day in the field.

Also,college credit may be arranged by the student through their department or as an independent research program at their college or university. The Whale Center of New England encourages this, and will take whatever steps are required to facilitate such efforts.

Internship applicants should have the following:
* A background in biology, zoology, or related field
* Some knowledge of research methods and design
* An ability to work, live and communicate well with others
* Enthusiasm and dedication to work long days (sometimes 12 hours ormore) in the field or lab
* Completed their freshmen year at the time of application

In order to apply for an internship: please send a resume, a coverletter detailing your reason(s) for applying, one letter of reference,and an updated transcript.

Once your application has been received, aninterview will be arranged. In-person interviews are preferred,necessitating travel to Gloucester, MA, during one of two weekends in March 2008 (to be determined at a later date).

All applications must besubmitted by March 1, 2008. Applicants should note which semesters they are applying for (a single application may enter an applicant into the pool for more than one session, in case they are not selected for their first choice). All positions are highly competitive.

Because of an increased work calendar during the summer session, volunteer positions are also available.
*If you are applying for the spring 2008 semester, please send your application as soon as possible and instead of an in-person interview, a telephone interview can be arranged.
* Application materials and questions regarding the internship should bedirected to the intern coordinator:
Jennifer Tackaberry
P.O. Box 159
Gloucester, MA
01930978-281-6351 (office)
978-281-5666 (fax)
jenn@whalecenter.org

Eventos Internacionales: Conferencia Whale watching.

I am writing to let you know about our forthcoming whale watching conference, to be held in Iceland from 12-14th March 2008. Please keep the date free, it would be great if you could take part.

We want to celebrate the success of whale watching and give operators the chance to share ideas. This conference is relevant for all wildlife tour operators, tourism students and anyone considering setting up a business in wildlife tourism.

Please forward this invite on to anyone you think might be interested. The conference is being organised by Icewhale (Iceland's Whale Watching Association), with support from IFAW, the International Fund for Animal Welfare.

Highlights of the conference include:
Education onboard whale watching vessels: a talk followed by a workshop to share information and ideas.
Research onboard: what techniques and equipment are available and why it would benefit your business.
Making your business more economically sustainable.
Sustainability of whale watching.

Confirmed speakers include:
Dr David Lusseau (University of Aberdeen, UK),
Richard Fairbairns (Sealife Surveys, UK)
Jos? Palazzo (Brazilian right whale scientist and long-time advocate of whale watching).

The conference fee includes 3 nights accommodation at the Hotel Selfoss http://www.selfosshotel.is coach transfer to and from the hotel and all meals.

The fee is ISK 25,000 (approximately US$400).
An additional option at the end of the conference is a one- day trip to H?savik (in the north of Iceland). This will include flights, bus transfer, a guided tour of the Whale Museum and lunch. If you reserve your place before 16th January 08, you will get a 20% discount on the conference fee. No payment is required at this stage. We will get back to you early in January with booking details.

Please book your places by emailing Ellie Dickson at IFAW on
edickson@ifaw.org

Empleo: Hawaii.

We are seeking applications for a Research Ecologist with the NOAA Fisheries Hawaiian Monk Seal Research Unit in Honolulu, Hawaii.

The person in this position conducts and oversees scientific studies, provides advice, and prepares status reports and manuscripts on recovery research and enhancement efforts for endangered Hawaiian monk seals.

Some examples include participating in Hawaiian Monk Seal Recovery Team meetings, attending conferences and Symposia (i.e. Marine Mammals, Conservation Biology), working with Pacific Island Regional Office staff to implement the Hawaiian Monk Seal Recovery plan action items, overseeing preparation and publication of scientific manuscripts from staff conducting monk seal research.

The incumbent also publishes reports and scientific papers on Hawaiian monk seals and answers scientific questions and inquiries in a timely manner for partners and stakeholders (e.g., PIRO, State of Hawaii, WestPAC, F/PR). Innovative and appropriate research will be required to meet management needs and enhance the conservation of monk seals through a variety of techniques which will include but are not limited to population assessment, characterization of monk seal foraging, monitoring of health and disease, and investigation of methods to mitigate mortality.

Specifc details about the position and application process can be found by searching for job # NMF-PIC-2008-0011 at
http:// www.usajobs.opm.gov/

For more information regarding the Hawaiian Monk Seal Research Unit visit: http://www.pifsc.noaa.gov/psd/mmrp/monkseals.php

For more information on the Hawaiian monk seal recovery plan and mortality mitigation efforts visit: http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/pdfs/ recovery/hawaiianmonkseal.pdf

All qualified U.S. citizens, and current Federal employees serving under a career or career-conditional appointment in the competitive service, former Federal employees with reinstatement rights, CTAP/ ICTAP eligibles, and applicants eligible under special authorities. Veterans who are preference eligible or who have been separated from the armed forces under honorable conditions after 3 years or more of continuous active service may apply under the Veterans Employment Opportunity Act (VEOA).

Applications are due January 23, 2008 Cheers, Charles Littnan Head,
Hawaiian Monk Seal Research Unit Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center,
NOAA Fisheries
charles.littnan@noaa.gov

Empleo: Gales.

Details of a vacancy for the post of Cardigan Bay SAC Officer in West Wales,UK
aclosing date for application of 17th January 2008.
Post reference 40ESH2301030/WM.

Please visit <http://www.ceredigion.gov.uk/> for an application form or call 01545572017 quoting job reference.

Cardigan Bay Special Area of Conservation Officer Grade: Scale 6 Spinal: Point 26-28 (?21,412-22,845)
Fixed-term post to March 2009 with possible extension Based at Penmorfa, Aberaeron, West Wales Department of Environmental Services and Housing (Planning Division)

a. Cardigan Bay SAC
Cardigan Bay Special Area of Conservation (SAC) is part of a network ofsites identified under the EU Habitats Directive, 1992. Cardigan Bay was selected because of its importance for the Bottlenose Dolphin. Since then Atlantic grey seals, river and sea lampreys, reefs, sand banks and sea caves have been added to the designation. A Management Scheme for the SAC was produced in 2000 and is currently being reviewed and is out for public consultation. Further information about the SAC can be viewed on the Cardigan Bay SAC web site <http://www.ceredigion.gov.uk/cbsac>. The SAC is managed by the Cardigan Bay Relevant Authorities Group[1] (i.e.those authorities with specific responsibilities for the site). A Liaison Group has also been established as a means of ensuring that the wider community can be involved in management. Ceredigion has two marine SACs, covering approximately 2/3 of inshore waters (the other SAC being the Penllyn a?r Sarnau SAC). In addition, the County Council is developing an approach for the integrated management of the coastal zone. In 2006 the Council opened a small marine information centre on the harbour at New Quay, the Cardigan Bay Boat Place, in order to promote codes of conduct amongst boat users of the Bay. The post therefore contributes to the wider aims of marine protected area management in the County.

b. Overall objectives of post
1. To assist in the development, maintenance and implementation of amanagement scheme and related activities of the Cardigan SAC on behalf ofthe Relevant Authorities Group
2. To provide a focal point for liaison and consultation between theRelevant Authorities Group and statutory bodies, interest groups and localcommunities.
3. To provide information and interpretation on all aspects of theSAC.

c. Duties and responsibilities
1. To contribute to the development and implementation of identifiedmanagement actions within the revised management scheme
2. To keep the management scheme under review and the managementscheme document updated. This will include the co-ordination of inputs, andcollation and preparation of sections of the document as required.
3. To maintain and promote the liaison framework established betweenthe public, user groups, local communities, and the Relevant AuthoritiesGroup.
4. To organize and coordinate occasional public consultations on allaspects of the SAC; analyse and report the consultation responses to theRelevant Authorities Group.
5. Provide information to the wider public on the management schemevia the production of occasional publications/press releases
6. To carry out regular marine patrols to raise awareness ofappropriate behaviour at sea
7. To assist with raising awareness of appropriate behaviour at seathrough the promotion of codes of conduct at the Cardigan Bay Boat Place.
8. The maintenance of the Cardigan Bay SAC website
9. To liaise with other management and monitoring/research groups,and establish or maintain effective working relations with representativesof local and national agencies, authorities and bodies as appropriate
10. Assist the Relevant Authorities Group with the identification of gapsin current knowledge and research needs.
11. Contribute to the establishment and management of scientific andadministrative information systems for the SAC.
12. Identify and contribute to the development of appropriate protocolsand strategies for monitoring the effectiveness of the management scheme.
13. Provide administrative and secretarial support for the RelevantAuthorities Group and Liaison Group.
14. To contribute to the development of Local Biodiversity Action marinehabitats and species plans and their implementation

d. Conditions of employment
The Relevant Authority Group (SACRAG) will provide overall direction to thework of the post-holder. The Countryside Council for Wales, in particular,will provide technical assistance and supervision to the scientific aspects of the post. The post-holder will be located in the Conservation Team in the Coast and Countryside Section of Ceredigion County Council at Penmorfa in Aberaeronand at the Cardigan Bay Boat Place, New Quay. The post-holder will beline-managed by and responsible to the Conservation Management Officer.Weekend and evening work will be required

e. Post Requirements
Education:
* Degree or equivalent in an appropriate environmental science ordiscipline
* Qualifications in a marine science would be an advantage, but notessential.
Experience:
* A background in the management, regulation or study of maritimeoperations would be an advantage.
* Experience in environmental management (not necessarily marine) especially managing public use would be an advantage.
* Mature and self-reliant; able to work on own initiative
* Proven ability to work to timetables and target dates.
Essential Skills / Competencies:
* Advanced RYA Power boat qualification. (Training will be providedwhere necessary)
* Comfortable dealing with the public and with conflict management.
* Excellent interpersonal, communication and organizational skills.
* Good writing skills and ability to collate summarise and presentcomplex issues to a wide range of individuals and organisations.
* Computer literacy essential (especially in use of databases); familiarity with Geographical Information Systems (GIS) an advantage.
* Experience in, or knowledge of, a range of interpretation techniques/methods
* Current full UK driving licence. Knowledge
* Extensive knowledge of, and interest in, the marine environment (not necessarily in any professional capacity)
* Working knowledge of relevant legislation (in particular the EUHabitats and Species Directives, and UK Regulations) an advantage.
* A knowledge of Welsh would be an advantage

f. Additional information
Interviews will be held on February 1st with a view to the post holder commencing duties at the earliest opportunity after that date. For an informal discussion, contact
Liz Allan,
Conservation Management Officer on
01545 572142
from 7th January, 2008

Actividades: Entrenamiento de animales acuáticos.

A Ph.D. Class on Research Training of Aquatic Animals

Many branches of biological research relies on trained animals under human care. Animal training thus fulfills a very important role in biological research, and appropriate training methodologies are crucial for obtaining and adequately interpreting data.

This class is inteded for graduate students and trainers specializing in research training of aquatic animals. The first part of the class contains lectures and practical trials on basic training paradigms, such as classical conditioning and positive reinforcement. The second part deals with special training techniques for marine mammal and fish training.

The students are exposed to lectures by some of the foremost experts in the world on animal training, as well as on very highly esteemed scientists whose research methods involve animal training. Lectures are combined with practical trials where the students train and try out various training methods under the supervision of the teachers.

When: Monday 2nd to Wednesday 11th of June, 2008.

Where: Fjord&B?lt, Kerteminde, Denmark.

Funded by: The Nordic Marine Academy from the Nordic Research Council, and the Research Graduate School SNAK, University of Southern Denmark.

Organized by: Magnus Wahlberg, Fjord&B?lt and University of Southern Denmark .

Workload: 5 ECTS

Maximum number of students: 24

Fee: Students from Nordic countries free of charge including room and board, students outside this region will be charged 3.000 DKK for participation, including room and board.

Applications consisting of a maximum 1-page letter motivating why you want to be enrolled in this class, and a maximium 1-page C.V., should be emailed or posted to:
Magnus Wahlberg,
Fjord&B?lt,
Margrethes Plads 1,
DK-5300 Kerteminde, Denmark,
magnus@fjord-baelt.dk or magnus.wahlberg@biology.au.dk no later than 1st of March, 2008.

Successful candidates will be notified by 15th of March, 2008.

Teachers:
Bj?rn Mauck (BM), Ph.D. and Professor, University of Southern Denmark
Colleen Reichmuth (CR), Ph. D. and Associate Professor, Long Marine Lab, Santa Cruz, USA
Ken Ramirez (KR), vice president, John G Shedd Aquarium, USA
Kirsten Andersen (KA), animal curator, Odense Zoo, Denmark
Mats Amundin (MA), Ph.D., chief Biologist, Kolm?rden, Sweden
Marie-Anne Blanchet (MAB), M.Sc., senior trainer, Fjord&B?lt, Denmark
Marlee Breese (MB), senior trainer, Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology, USA
Paul Nacthigall (PN), Professor, Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology, USA
Richard Fay (RF), Professor, Parmly Sensory Sciences Institute, USA Schedule (still subject to major changes)

Students share rooms in hostel, where breakfast is served. Lunch and dinner is served on at the marine station.

Monday 2nd of June
9-10
MW -Welcome and general introduction
10-12
KR - Introduction to Training & Basic Conditioning
14-15
MB - Chicken Training Intro
15-17
KR - Basic Operant Conditioning Continued
20-21
MW - Tour around Fjord&B?lt

Tuesday 3rd of June
9-10
KR - Non-Formal interactions
10-11
MB - Chicken Training
11-12
KR - Cooperative Behavior Introduction
14-15
MB - Chicken Training
15-16
KR - Husbandry Training
16-17
MB - Chicken Training
20-21
Bertel M?hl and S?ren Andersen: Origins of research training of marine mammals in Denmark

Wednesday 4th of June
9-11
KR - Advanced Operant Conditioning
11-12
MB- Chicken Training
14-16
KR - Advanced Operant Conditioning Continued
16-17
MB - Chicken Training
20-21
KA + MB: Harbour porpoise training at F&B

Thursday 5th of June
9-10
MB - Chicken Training
10-12
KR - Problem Solving
14-15
MB - Chicken Training
15-16
KR - Aggression
16-17
MB - Chicken Training

Friday 6th of June
9-10
MB - Chicken Training
10-12
KR - Research Training (tied to previous lectures)
14-16
RF - Research Training
16-17
MB - Chicken Training

Saturday 7th of June
9-12
RF - Training fish for psychophysical studies
14-18
KA - Tour to Odense Zoo 20- Dining at Skovbakken, Odense

Sunday 8th of June
9-10
MB + PN - Research training of dolphins
10-11
PN - Food deprivation and other controversial techniques
11-12
PN - Trainer and scientists team work, a historical perspective of do's and don'ts
14-17
MB - Chicken trainining
BM + MAB + MB: Harbour porpoise and harbour seal training demo
20-21
MAB + Kristian Beedholm: Porpoise hearing studies at F&B using ABR

Monday 9th of June
9-12
CR + BM - Research training of seals
14-16
Desensitization in marine mammal training
16-18
Training projects wrap-up
20-21
MA - Training Cetaceans for sound production studies

Tuesday 10th of June
Group evaluations including video observations of training sessions

Wednesday 11th of June
9-11
Sum-up discussion around training projects
11-12
MW + KA - Where do we go from here: a Nordic network on research training 1
2-13
Class evaluation and farewell

* No os asustéis por que ponga Chicken training, obviamente no se refiere a entrenamiento de pollos, es una terminología usada en el mundo del entrenemiento de animales en general!

Voluntariado: Canadá!

SEACR MARINE RESEARCH INTERNSHIPS SUMMER 2008

Enthusiastic individuals with a keen interest in nature and science are invited to discover the challenges of marine field research along Canada's coastal rainforest through SEACR's Marine Research Intern Program! The Society for Ecological and Coastal Research - SEACR - is a non-profitorganization, established in 1998, dedicated to scientific research on the ecology of nearshore marine systems. SEACR is sponsoring several long term ongoing research projects on gray whale ecology and resource use of marbled murrelets in Clayoquot Sound, British Columbia, Canada.

The projects are organized and run by the Whale Research Lab of the University of Victoria,Victoria, British Columbia, Canada (http://www.geog.uvic.ca/whalelab/).

MRIP is a volunteer program where Research Interns live and work at a remote research field-station in the coastal rainforest of Clayoquot Sound, British Columbia. Interns assist experienced and dedicated marine ecologists with ongoing field research and analysis related to coastal and marine ecology.

Internships are offered on a competitive basis, *at cost* and provide invaluable exposure to boat based field work, marine mammal and bird research, the Pacific coastal ocean environment, mentoring with established researchers in marine ecology, and encouragement to work and play hard!

We have a limited number of 3 or 4-week Marine Research Internship available for the 2008 Summer. There is no deadline to apply. However, approved applications are reviewed and accepted on a first-come, first serve basis. If you are interested in applying for a position, please see the details of our application process on our website
http://www.geog.uvic.ca/whalelab/seacr-application.html

Questions regarding the MRIP application or internships can be directed by email to: whalelab@mail.geog.uvic.ca
Laura Joan Feyrer
Director
Society for Ecological and Coastal Research
P.O. Box 35052Victoria, British Columbia
CANADA V8T 5G2
whalelab@mail.geog.uvic.ca

jueves, 3 de enero de 2008

Empleo: Veterinarios!

Hola a todos, Mi nombre es Irene Zorrilla Delgado, responsable del Centro de Análisis y Diagnóstico de la Fauna Silvestre (Consejería de Medio Ambiente de la Junta de Andalucía). Actualmente este laboratorio está situado en Málaga.

Estamos realizando nuevos procesos de selección para personal veterinario que cumpla alguno de los siguientes perfiles:

1- Veterinari@ con experiencia en necropsias y técnicas clínicas de laboratorio, preferiblemente relacionado con la fauna silvestre. El proceso de selección se iniciará en los próximos días y la incorporación será inmediata.
2- Veteriniari@ para contrato en prácticas, con licenciatura terminada hace no más de dos años.
3- Veterinario@ para incorporación como becario (entre 1 y 6 meses). Se requieren alumnos de los dos últimos años de la licenciatura de veterinaria.

Como nos urge, os agradecería que le diéseis la máxima difusión posible.Los datos del curriculum deben introducirse en el apartado correspondiente de la página web de EGMASA (www.egmasa.es) y remitirse a mi dirección: izorrilla@egmasa.es

Un saludo y ¡gracias!

Dra. Irene Zorrilla Delgado
Centro de Análisis y Diagnóstico de la Fauna Silvestre (CAD)
Consejería de Medio Ambiente-Junta de AndalucíaAvda.
Lope de Vega, 929010 Málaga

Eventos Internacionales: MARVET!

We would like to announce a MARVET workshop (Marine Veterinary Medicine) for graduate veterinarians to be conducted at The Marine Mammal Center in Sausalito, CA from July 7-10, 2008.

Please visit: www.marvet.org
for further information or email Raymond Tarpley: info@marvet.org.

MARVET California 2008 (Sausalito, California)
MARVET offers graduate veterinarians an intense lecture and hands-on workshop, directed toward critical veterinary care and rehabilitation of stranded pinnipeds - primarily California sea lions, harbor seals and elephant seals.
Students will have the opportunity to perform traditional diagnostic workups and develop therapies for actual cases at the Center, and perform necropsies with a Board-Certified pathologist.
The contribution that rehabilitation facilities make to species conservation and ecosystem health will be examined.

The Marine Mammal Center www.tmmc.org is a state-of-the-art veterinary treatment and holding facility, reflecting emerging societal concerns for environmental responsibility through energy efficient architectural design and new construction for the Center and its veterinary hospital is currently in progress with completion planned in late 2007.

Tuition includes lodging and all course activities.

Empleo: California.

The Southwest Fisheries Science Center (SWFSC) in La Jolla, CA, seeks a lab manager for its Molecular Ecology Laboratory.

Responsibilities include production of high quality genetic data for phylogenetic and population structure studies primarily of marine mammals and sea turtles by:
* overseeing daily operations of the genetics laboratory and its systems,
* training laboratory personnel and students in basic laboratory techniques,
* serving as liaison between project investigators and laboratory staff,
* supervising laboratory technicians,
* tracking status of all projects moving through the lab,
* providing technical guidance, problem solving, and troubleshooting of laboratory methods
* procurement of laboratory supplies and equipment,
* ensuring maintenance of laboratory equipment and environment
* providing fiscal oversight of laboratory budget and maintenance of a cost effective research environment.

He/she must communicate with and report to principle investigators and collaborators on a regular basis, and be familiar with relational databases for laboratory data input, quality control, and tracking of projects.

Additionally, she/he will:
* Oversee development and testing of new technologies and protocols to improve our data quality and efficiency;
* Introduce and evaluate new technology to improve our research capacity;
* Track and manage the laboratory budget using MS Access and Oracle databases;
* Assist in the development, monitoring, and maintenance of project budget and schedules;
* Produce and provide data to other laboratories within NMFS, to international organizations such as the International Whaling Commission, and to collaborators;
* Coordinate lab activities with members of other programs and divisions within the SWFSC

Required Qualifications:

Ability to effectively communicate and interact with staff in a team-based environment. Requires a high degree of autonomy, flexibility, independent judgment, and leadership skills. Bachelor´s degree or higher in biology or related field, at least 3 years experience with molecular genetics research methods including DNA extraction, microsatellite genotyping, SNP genotyping, and DNA sequencing, and experience with overseeing the operation of a lab, including procurement, training of new personnel, data quality control and assurance, and project management.

Preferred Qualifications:

Preference will be given to candidates who pay attention to detail, have good organizational skills, and can work collaboratively with others.

This is a full-time position with a two year term limit, but with potential for extension.
Salary commensurate with experience and will include benefits.

Candidates must be U.S. Citizens.

The job is currently open for applications through January 23, through the web site www.usajobs.com.

Please contact Phil Morin for details phillip.morin@noaa.gov
http://swfsc.noaa.gov/prd.aspx

Announcement Number: NMF-SWC-2008-0008
Position: Supervisory Research Biologist (Lab Manager),
ZP-401-III
Location: La Jolla, CA
Open: January 2, 2008
Close: January 23, 2008

Empleo: Australia.

Research Biologist (Marine Mammals)
Permanent Full Time

The Zoological Parks Board of NSW (ZPB) has an exciting opportunity for a motivated individual with suitable experience, to join our team as a Research Biologist on a permanent full time basis.

As part of the Scientific Research and Wildlife Conservation Division based at Taronga Zoo, the Research Biologist will be required to grow the research capacity within the ZPB by ensuring research is relevant,economical and productive, with a focus on programs encompassed by the Australian Marine Mammal Research Centre (AMMRC).

The successful applicant will possess:
* PhD or post doctorate experience in population management,reproductive physiology and/or acoustics in marine mammals.
* Excellent academic track record measured by the number of publications in high impact factor scientific journals.
* Experience with conducting research on in-situ populations.
* Working knowledge of research related legislation and the conduct of Animal Ethics Committees.
* Demonstrated experience, confidence and effectiveness in communicating research and science to the broader community.
* Demonstrated success in obtaining research grants, fundraising and sponsorship.
* Demonstrated leadership and ability to effectively supervise research staff/students including undergraduate and postgraduate (PhD) students.
* Effective administrative, planning, organizational and time management skills.
* Demonstrated ability to monitor, maintain and report on budgets.
* Well developed verbal, interpersonal and written communications skills.

To obtain an information package including the position description, application form and selection criteria, please visit www.zoo.nsw.gov.au

Or contact Rebecca Spindler on 02 9978 4608, or email:
rspindler@zoo.nsw.gov.au

Applications addressing the selection criteria should be sent to:

HR Officer, ZPB,
PO Box 20,
Mosman 2088

by Thursday 31 January 2007 quoting reference. no. 2007/581.

Taronga and Western Plains Zoos - Contributing to Conservation

Kate McDonald Human
Resources OfficerZ
oological Parks Board of NSW
Ph: (02) 9978 4626
Fax: (02) 9978 4582
Email: kmcdonald@zoo.nsw.gov.au

Voluntariado: California.

MARINE MAMMAL STRANDING RESPONSE INTERNSHIP

Spring & Summer 2008

The California Wildlife Center in Malibu, California, seeks applicants for spring and summer internships working with stranded marine mammals. These are part time 8-week internship positions beginning March 15th (spring session - 2 positions available) and May 15th (summer session - 2 positions available). There is some flexibility of start dates.

The internships are unpaid positions and interns are responsible for all housing and travel expenses. It is possible that interns may stay on the premises on a first come - first served basis (a small fee may apply). Must have own transportation and current drivers license.

Summary/Program Description:
The California Wildlife Center is a non-profit organization dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and release of injured, orphaned and sick native wildlife. CWC fulfills this mission through marine mammal rescue, and treatment of avian and terrestrial wildlife in our rehabilitation hospital.
This internship will provide an exciting and challenging educational experience in the marine mammal field, while also allowing for additional hands-on experience with other native California wildlife. The interns will be working closely with the Marine Mammal program staff in all aspects of stranding response, including logistics, assessment, capture/restraint,transport to the marine mammal rehabilitation facility, and public relations.
In addition, interns will provide support to CWC Hospital staffin animal husbandry tasks for avian and terrestrial wildlife.

1. Intern Responsibilities & Qualifications:
The internship is open to all applicants at least 18 years of age or older.Undergraduate students and non-students alike are encouraged to apply. If the intern intends to receive academic credit, the intern will be responsible for making all arrangements with their educational institutions.

Spring internships are 3 days a week, 24 hours per week for 8 weeks. Summer internships are 4 days a week, 32 hours per week for 8 weeks. Due to the unpredictable nature of marine mammal stranding response, interns may sometimes be required to work beyond their normal scheduled hours. Interns must be able and willing to work flexible hours including weekends and holidays.

Interns will be required to have good physical strength and the ability to lift/carry 50 lbs. Interns need to have the ability to multitask and work in a fast paced environment. Animal care and/or marine mammal experience is a plus but not required.

Under supervision of Marine Mammal staff, duties will include:
* Answering and responding to all calls, pages and messages concerning marine mammals in a timely and courteous manner.
* Assessing stranded marine mammals.
* Coordinating and leading responder team in the capture and handling of stranded marine mammals needing medical attention.
* Coordinating transport of stranded marine mammals to the rehabilitation facility.
* Completion of NMFS Level A data sheets. Maintaining detailed database records of Malibu strandings, including reports of stranding, human interaction issues, etc.
* Assist with marine mammal necropsy and sample collection.
* Ensuring marine mammal-designated equipment is kept in clean working order.
* Maintaining good rapport with representatives of various public agencies

Application Process:
Interested individuals must send the following:
* Cover Letter (please indicate which session [Spring or Summer] you would like to apply for).
* Resume.
* Two letters of reference

Submit the above items via regular mail or email (preferred) to: California Wildlife Center Attn: Cynthia Reyes
P.O. Box 2022 Malibu,
California 90265

Email: Cynthia@californiawildlifecenter.org

The application submission deadlines:
Spring Session - January 31, 2008
Summer Session - March 31, 2008

Voluntariado: Australia.

RECRUITING RESEARCH ASSISTANTS

I am recruiting four research assistants to help with the collection of behavioural and acoustic data on Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins in Moreton Bay, Queensland, Australia.

Research assistants are needed between February and April 2008.

Due to the different instrumentation involved on this project, some degree of training required.

Thus applicants must be willing to commit to the project for a minimum of one month. Applicants willing to participate for the whole 3 months will be given preference.

Research will be based on camping grounds in Amity Point, North Stradbroke island

DUTIES: Assistants should be prepared to work long hours and for many consecutive days, depending on weather conditions.

They are expected to participate in the following duties: photo-identification, theodolite tracking, video recording, behavioural data collection, and computer monitoring including acoustics.

The crew will be distributed between the land-based station and the research vessel. For assistants onboard the research boat, they will be required to assist in boat launching, instrument handling, and boat daily maintenance.

Field work is demanding and volunteers will be assigned tasks according to their expertise.
Although these positions will remain constant for the duration of the field season, as a team member, the research assistant can gain hands-on experience in relation to land-based and vessel survey techniques, photo-identification, behavioural ethograms, animal tracking and acoustic data collection and analysis.

Research assistant will also help on all camping duties, such as cleaning, cooking,

APPLICANTS REQUIREMENTS:

1. Possess a background in biology, marine science, animal behaviour or a related field.
2. Good command of English language is preferred, but not essential.
3. Previous field experience with photo-identification analysis, boat handling skills, electronics, animal tracking, theodolite usage or acoustic monitoring would be advantageous but is not a prerequisite.
4. Be passionate, meticulous and diligent, fast-learner and resourceful, pro-active andteam oriented.
5. Adaptability is crucial, as research tasks are plenty and highly dependant on weather. Flexibility and patience are of essence.
6. Weather variability may provide for long intense hot days either on the land-based station or on vessel, as well as inactive days where analysis will take place. Be prepared and willing to engage on all these activities under these circumstances.
7. Be prepared to camp for extended periods of time in North Stradbroke Island.
8. Be able to commit for a minimum of 4 weeks (though applicants willing to commit for the whole 3months will be preferred).

COMPENSATION: Unfortunately no salary will be provided to research assistants. Volunteers are responsible for their travel expenses to Brisbane, as well as their housing in this city during days off the island. Research will provide for food and accommodation during fieldtrips in the island. This fieldtrips may last indefinitely, depending on weather conditions and camping restrictions.

HOW TO APPLY: If you are interested, please provide a short CV, two reference letters, and a letter explaining your interest in the project and goals for the future to Alvaro Berg (alvaro.bergsoto@jcu.edu.au) by 20th of January 2008.

Thank you for your interest

Alvaro Berg Soto
PhD candidate
James Cook University
Queensland, Australia