Volunteering: Capricorn Cetaceans Project!

The Capricorn Cetaceans Project is currently accepting applications for volunteers,interns and research assistants for the Australian winter season from June to September 2010.

The Capricorn Cetacean Project started in 2006 as part of Cagnazzi Daniele PhD study. The primary aim of this project was to study inshore dolphin species primarily on two threatened species the Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin and the Australian snubfin dolphin in the Southern Great Barrier Reef, from Gladstone to Shoalwater Bay,
Queensland Australia. With the years this project evolved including studies more species.

Field work include daily coastal surveys, coastal expedition and reef expeditions. Coastal daily surveys will be conducted on a 6m center console vessel, due to the extension of the study area launching points vary depending on the weather and surveys needs. Costal expeditions will be organized to survey the most remote areas, several hundred km away from any human activity. These expeditions will last between 4 and 5 days, during which we will sleep in a camp set up on unexploited beaches where with some luck we will fish our dinner. Reef expedition (50 miles away from the coast) will be done with a 13m long 5 star powered catamaran with all the comforts.

Nights will be spent within the lagoons of breath taking coral islands (Lady Musgrove, Lady Elliot, Heron Island and Fitzroy Reef) that will be possible to explore during the afternoon at the end of the work day. Snorkeling is also possible and worthwhile,and as I am a diving instructor upon interes we can organize some dives too.

During field work we will applied standard technique normally used in cetaceans studies and we will also collect skin samples using a biopsy pole and a PAXARM biopsy system.

These are the major projects on which we will be working:

- Modelling habitat suitability of coastal dolphins along the QLD coast

- Population genetics and phylogeography of Australian snubfin and humpback dolphins in Australian waters: defining appropriate management units for conservation

- Taxonomic status and ecology of a undescribed form of spinner dolphin "pigmy spinner dolphin" (Stenella spp) from the Capricorn Bunker group, Southern Great Barrier Reef.

- Use of non-destructive toxicology biomarkers and residue analysis to assess the toxicology status of humpback dolphins (Sousa chinensis) and snubfin dolphins (Orcaella heinsohni) in Australian coastal waters

- Estimating population size of inshore dolphins species in Central Queensland using DISTANCE techniques.

Furthermore we will continue with the collection of data from all cetaceans species sighted during our surveys, such as dugongs, offshore bottlenose dolphins, inshore bottlenose dolphins, spinners dolphins, humpback whale, Minke whales and False killer whales. We will also continue collecting photo-id data on humpback and snubfin
dolphins to increase accuracy of population estimates and to estimate population trend.

While on land the team will share a house in Yeppoon a nice costal town in Central Queensland, accommodation including internet and power is free,while we will share the shopping costs for the food.

The possibility of an internship will be evaluated directly with the interested person.

Volunteers are not required to have any previous experience except for a profound interest in cetaceans and a background in marine studies or similar. Application from volunteers for less than 2 months will not be considered.

One research assistant position is also available and potential candidates are required to stay for the full four months. Research Assistant need to have previous experience with boat handling and field work studies. The successful applicant will have the food costs plus a weekly reimbursement to discuss directly with me.

Interested applicants should forward a letter and their CV directly to me dcagna10@scu.edu.au

For more detailed information do not hesitate to contact me

Daniele Cagnazzi
PhD
Southern Cross University Whale Research Centre
Southern Cross University
2480 Lismore NSW Australia
PH: +61 0266203815
FAX: +61 0266212669

Volunteering: Australia!

The Marine Mammal Research Group of Macquarie University in Sydney, Australia, is currently looking for two volunteers during the summer season 2010. The boat-based surveys will be carried out in the Port Stephens - Great Lakes Marine Park, 200 km north of Sydney, from 15th February to 15th March 2010. Interns will participate in the field on a daily basis collecting behavioural and ecological data of Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus). The internship offers an excellent opportunity for qualified and motivated individuals to obtain field training and analysis with experienced dolphin researchers.

Prerequisites:

Ideal internship applicants are at least undergraduates of a scientifically oriented university subject. Participants should have a motor boat driving license or at least very good boat driving skills. Volunteers must commit for the entire four weeks.

Accommodation and food are provided during the stay but applicants are responsible for all travelling expenses to and from the field site.

Interested applicants should contact Andre Steckenreuter:

astecken@gse.mq.edu.au

Regards,

Andre Steckenreuter
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
PhD Candidate
Marine Mammal Research Group
Graduate School of the Environment
Macquarie University 2109 NSW Australia

Ph: 0410862189
Email: astecken@gse.mq.edu.au

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/

Voluntariado: Australia!

The Marine Mammal Research Group of Macquarie University in Sydney, Australia, is currently looking for volunteers during the winter season 2009.

The boat-based surveys will be carried out in the Port Stephens - Great Lakes Marine Park, 200 km north of Sydney, from 3rd to 31st August 2009. The minimum stay of volunteers is two weeks but volunteers staying the entire time are preferred. Interns will participate in the field on a daily basis collecting behavioural data of Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus) in conjunction with the impact of dolphin-watching boats. Additionally, data on habitat use of this resident population will be collected.

The internship offers an excellent opportunity for qualified and motivated individuals to obtain field training in photo-identification methodology and analysis with experienced dolphin researchers. Ideal internship applicants are at least undergraduates of a scientifically oriented university subject. Preferably, participants should have a motor boat driving license and/or experience in marine mammal observation and photo-ID.

Accommodation and food are provided during the stay but applicants are responsible for all travelling expenses to and from the field site.

Interested applicants should contact Andre Steckenreuter: astecken@gse.mq.edu.au

Regards,

Andre

Andre Steckenreuter, PhD Candidate

Marine Mammal Research Group

Graduate School of the Environment

Macquarie University 2109

NSW Australia

E-mail: astecken@gse.mq.edu.au
Ph.: 0410 862 189

Voluntariado: Australia!

Humpback Whale Research, Hervey Bay, Australia - Internship Opportunity the Oceania Project, during August-October 2009, is conducting vessel based fieldwork for a long-term study of the behaviour and social organisation of humpback whales in Hervey Bay.

The Expedition vessel 'Moon Dancer' is a 12m-power catamaran. http://www.oceania.org.au/expedition/research.html The Oceania Project is affiliated with Southern Cross University incorporating the Southern Cross University Whale Research Centre (SCUWRC) and the Centre for Animal Conservation Genetics (SCU CACG) and is an affiliate of the South Pacific Whale Research Consortium (SPWRC).
http://www.oceania.org.au/footer_stuff/about_us.html

The focus of the research being undertaken is a long term study of the social behaviour, population dynamics and ecological significance of Hervey Bay for the Area V (E1) humpback whale group. In addition we are investigating genetic relatedness amongst humpbacks in Hervey Bay, the implications for social organisation and reproductive success and the extent to which social behaviour is determined by kinship.

There is an opportunity for up to five Interns to participate in the research expedition each week during August-October 2009. Interns live aboard the expedition vessel for a week or more subject to time and budget constraints. The cost per week is $1950 Australian which includes accommodation aboard the expedition vessel and food. Interns are responsible for all costs associated with travel to and from Hervey Bay.

Fieldwork involved is 'sloughed skin' and faecal sample collection, assistance with photo identification/behavioural observation field notes, GPS/GIS spatial data collection, environmental data, water quality sampling and general data entry. Interns also assist with vessel operations including food preparation & galley duties. Sea time can be validated towards a marine qualification.

http://www.oceania.org.au/expedition/life.html

A pdf with detailed information about the Internship Program is available for download.
No prior experience is necessary and training will be provided. The Internship is open to students and staff of recognised institutions. Preference will be given to individuals involved in marine mammal science courses or related institutions and/or with prior volunteer marine mammal field experience. Places will be allocated in the order registrations are received.
General information about The Oceania Project and the Research Expedition is online at:
http://www.oceania.org.au

Experiences with the humpbacks in Hervey Bay aboard the Whale Research Expedition can
be viewed at: [ iWhales.org ]. If you are interested in participating in the Whale Research Expedition as an Intern you can register online.

If you have questions or queries please email Trish & Wally Franklin and include a brief CV [ mailto:trish.wally@oceania.org.au ].

Trish Franklin & Wally Franklin
Directors & Principal Investigators, The Oceania Project
PhD Candidates, Southern Cross University
..........................................................................
Trish & Wally Franklin
The Oceania Project
PO Box 646 Byron Bay NSW 2481 Australia
ABN 73 052 470 630 ACN 052 470 630
Phone: + 61 02 6685 8128
Fax: + 61 02 9225 9176
Mobile: 0418 797326
Email: trish.wally@oceania.org.au
Web: http://www.oceania.org.au
and http://www.iwhales.org

Voluntariado: Australia!

Volunteers required for work on Australian fur seals (Arctocephaluspusillus doriferus).

Volunteers are required to assist PhD students from Deakin University,Victoria, Australia on projects studying the foraging behaviour and disease prevalence of/in Australian fur seals.

Volunteers will gain experience in the capture and restraint of adult female, juvenile and pup Australian fur seals. Volunteers will also assist in gas anaesthesia, the attachment and removal of data loggers and the collection of biological samples.

Fieldwork will be conducted on Kanowna Island, a remote island off the coast of Wilsons Promontory, Victoria. Life as well as work on the island can be physically demanding and as such volunteers should be relatively fit and healthy.

Volunteers will need to provide their own transport to and from Tidal River, Wilsons Promontory; alternatively, carpooling may be able to be arranged with other volunteers travelling down. Food and accommodation are provided, it should be noted that accommodation is basic (sleeping in tents etc). Volunteers will need to bring personal items such as clothes and sleeping bags.

The length of field trips will vary from 14 days to up to 20 days and will be conducted during the months of May and September.

Please direct all expressions of interest coupled with a short CV;

Andrew Hoskins

PhD Candidate

Deakin University, Australia

Email: ajhos@deakin.edu.au

Voluntariado: Australia!

Hi all,

I am looking for two volunteers to help me with field work for my PhD project. The assistants are needed 1 May to 31 July. We investigate genetic, social, and ecological factors influencing behavioural variation in bottlenose dolphins.

The focus lies on the "sponging behaviour" a foraging technique where dolphins use marine sponges as tools. To do so we conduct boat surveys where we record behaviour, take photos for photo ID, and collect biopsy samples for genetic analysis.

The field site is located in Useless Loop, Shark Bay, Western Australia. Useless Loop is a remotely located closed mining community with restricted access. Due to its remoteness it will not be possible to leave the site during the field season.

If you are interested we expect you to:

- have good English communication skills,

- to be willing to get up early,

- to work long hours indoors (data processing) and outdoors (boat surveys),

- and to be able to get on well with others in a small team.

A background in biology, a strong interest of cetaceans, and prior experience in boat based surveys and Photo ID are essential. We offer training in survey work and Photo ID and provide food and accommodation.

Unfortunately, we are not able to pay for travel (to Denham, Shark Bay) and other expenses. To apply, please send your CV, a covering letter, contact details of two references to useless.loop.dolphins@gmail.com.

*Deadline: 15 February 2009.*

Cheers,

Anna.

Anna Kopps

School of BEES

UNSW

Sydney NSW 2052

Australia

Fax +61 2 9385 1558

Phone +61 2 9385 2198

Anthropologisches Institut und Museum
Universit?t Z?rich
Winterthurerstrasse 190
8057 Z?rich
Switzerland
Fax +41 44 635 68 04
Phone +41 44 635 54 18
www.aim.uzh.ch/egg-3.html

Voluntariado: leones marinos en Australia!

Seal Behaviour Research in Australia

Volunteers are needed to assist with fieldwork investigating the effects of tourism on Australian fur seals in January and February, 2009.

Minimum time commitment is 7-10 days, but longer stays are possible. Research is conducted on a small, uninhabited island in Bass Strait, which is home to Australian and New Zealand fur seals as well as Little penguins and many other sea bird species.

Food and tent will be provided; camp facilities are primitive.

Volunteers will assist with observations of seal behaviour. Volunteers need to be in good health and fitness, have some experience camping and/or backpacking, have enthusiasm and patience, and be able to lift up to 50 lbs. as needed. A background in biological sciences is preferred.

If interested, please email a brief resume to:
Julia Back
MSc Candidate, A
ustralian-American Fulbright Scholar
Deakin Unviersity,
Melbourne,
Australia
jbac@deakin.edu.au

Voluntariado. Nueva Zelanda!

Hi,

I am a PhD student with the University of Otago and I am looking for volunteers for a project on Hector's dolphins in New Zealand from the 6th until the end of January 2009.

The field work will be in beautiful Akaroa in the South Island of New Zealand. We will be theodolite tracking Hector's dolphins from a cliff overlooking the harbour in order to gather informations on the detections range of some acoustic devices (T-PODs) that will be deployed in the water during the observations.

Full training will be provided however a biology background and previous experience working with marine mammals is a bonus. The succesful applicant must be responsible and ready to work long hours outdoor.

Due to limited fundings we are not able to provide an accomodation however Akaroa offers a number of options including backpackers and camping grounds.

In order to apply please send your CV together with a cover letter to

scasi259@student.otago.ac.nz

Silvia Scali
PhD Candidate
Marine Mammal Research Group
Dept.of Marine Science
University of Otago
Ph. +64 9 950 3266
Cell. +64 021 222 6284

Voluntariado: Australia!

The Marine Mammal Research Group of the Macquarie University in Sydney is currently looking for volunteers during the winter season 2009.

The boat-based surveys will be carried out in the Port Stephens-Great Lakes Marine Park, 200 km north of Sydney, from 23rd February to 23rd March 2009.

Interns will participate in the field on a daily basis collecting behavioural data of Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus) in conjunction with the impact of dolphin-watching boats.

The internship offers an excellent opportunity for qualified and motivated individuals to obtain field training in photo-identification methodology and analysis with experienced dolphin researchers.

Ideal internship applicants are at least undergraduates of a scientifically oriented university subject. Preferably, participants should have a motor boat driving license and/or experience in marine mammal photo-ID.

Accommodation and food are provided during the stay but applicants are responsible for all travelling expenses to and from the field site.

Interested applicants should contact Andre Steckenreuter: astecken@gse.mq.edu.au

Voluntariado: Australia!

Hi all,

I am seeking volunteers to help out on field work for my PhD project, Ecology of Bottlenose dolphins and Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins in the Ningaloo Reef-Exmouth region of Western Australia.

The project investigates population sizes, spatial distribution and habitat usage patterns of humpback and bottlenose dolphins utilising the Ningaloo Marine Park and Exmouth Gulf region of Western Australia. It also aims to determine the social structure and movement patterns of these species.

Field season dates are 1st December 2008 to 28th February 2009. Volunteers are asked to commit for a minimum of five days per week for 3-8 weeks and are asked to pay $100.00 per week to cover food and accommodation expenses. You will need to make your own way to Coral Bay. Accommodation is at the Coral Bay Research Station where we will be living in close quarters.

Fieldwork is highly weather dependent and research will be conducted in a small (5.15 metre) research vessel in a team of three people so volunteers must be fit, adaptable and patient.

Duties include boat handling, data recording, equipment maintenance and fin-matching. Coral Bay is a small town in the remote northwest of Western Australia and conditions at this time of the year will be very hot (e.g. 35? Celsius).

Fieldwork will vary between weekends and weekdays so flexibility is required.

If you would like to help out then please send your CV at your earliest convenience to k.wenziker@murdoch.edu.au

Regards,

Kristel Wenziker
PhD Candidate
School of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology
Murdoch University Cetacean Research Unit
Murdoch University
90 South Street
Murdoch WA 6150
Western Australia
Email: k.wenziker@murdoch.edu.au
Mobile: (+61) 0409 206 408

Urgente: necesitan gente en Australia!

Os cuelgo el enlace de la oferta:

http://losmamiferosmarinos.blogspot.com/2008/06/voluntariado-australia.html

Necesitan gente urgentemente, y es de los pocos voluntariados en los que te ofrecen alojamiento y comida. No desaproveches la oportunidad de trabajar en Australia con cetáceos. La experiencia que te ofrece una oportunidad como esta no se puede rechazar!

Por que yo no puedo...que si no!

Suerte a todo el mundo, y animaros a hacer cosillas, que es la única manera de entrar en este mundo.

Un saludo!!

Voluntariado: Australia!

Volunteers required for humpback whale research at Norfolk Island.

Applications are sought from volunteers to assist with fieldwork on cetaceans, with emphasis on humpback whales, from 23 August to 14 November, 2008. The twelve (12) week survey will take place during the 2008 southbound migration of humpback whales past Norfolk Island.

Continuing on from annual surveys conducted at Norfolk Island since 2003, the 2008 program will be the most extensive to date. The majority of data shall be collected from land stations, however some vessel-based work will be conducted.

Work will involve documenting numbers, position and behaviour of humpback whales, as well as data relevant to observations of other cetaceans. The survey will also entail vessel-based photo-ID, acoustics and slough skin collection.

Ideally, volunte!ers are sought for the entire survey but those who can commit to a lesser albeit extended period will also be considered. You will be responsible for your transport to and from Norfolk Island. Accommodation and food will be provided, however, a nominal contribution to food costs will be welcomed.

Although the survey will benefit from those who possess experience with cetacean research, training will be provided to those with a genuine interest in the marine environment. Survey equipment is far from complicated, indeed those who can use binoculars and VHF hand-held two-way radios will find themselves well qualified for the task. Significantly, a mature approach to working and living with a team of dedicated researchers for an extended period is of greater consequence. One caveat though, previous surveys from Norfolk Island have shown that occasionally several days may pass with no cetaceans sighted.

Applicants should send an introductory email to Adrian Oosterman
carmel_adrian@hotmail.com
or Peter Garbett
cetalfauna@hotmail.com

Applications will be considered as they are received but will close on 12 July.

For those interested, cetacean species recorded in Norfolk Island waters by the survey team include humpback, minke and pygmy killer whales, as well as bottlenose and short-beaked common dolphins. Anecdotal and whaling records suggest additional species.

Adrian Oosterman
Norfolk Island Whale Survey
PO Box 143, Scarborough,
Qld 4020,
Australia
Ph. +61 7 3038 8131
Mob. +61 418 984 324
Email carmel_adrian@hotmail.com

Voluntariado: Australia!

Humpback Whale Research, Hervey Bay, Australia - August/September Internship Opportunity

The Oceania Project is conducting during August-October 2008 vessel based fieldwork for a long-term study of the ecology & behaviour humpback whales in Hervey Bay.

The Expedition vessel 'Moon Dancer' is a 12m-power catamaran.
http://www.oceania.org.au/expedition/research.html

The Oceania Project is affiliated with Southern Cross University incorporating the Southern Cross University Whale Research Centre (SCUWRC) and the Centre for Animal Conservation Genetics (SCU CACG) and is an affiliate of the South Pacific Whale Research Consortium (SPWRC).
http://www.oceania.org.au/footer_stuff/about_us.html

The focus of the research being undertaken is a long term study of the social and ecological significance of Hervey Bay for the Area V humpback group. In addition we are investigating genetic relatedness amongst humpbacks in Hervey Bay, the implications for social organisation and reproductive success and the extent to which social behaviour is determined by kinship.

There is an opportunity for up to four Interns to participate in the research expedition each week during August-October 2008. Interns live aboard the expedition vessel for a week or more subject to time and budget constraints. The cost per week is $1950 Australian which includes accommodation aboard the expedition vessel and food. Interns are responsible for all costs associated with travel to and from Hervey Bay.

Fieldwork involved is 'sloughed skin' and faecal sample collection, assistance with photo identification/behavioural observation field notes, GPS/GIS spatial data collection, environmental data, water quality sampling and general data entry. Interns also assist with vessel operations including food preparation & galley duties.

Sea time can be validated towards a marine qualification.
http://www.oceania.org.au/expedition/internship.html

A pdf with detailed information about the Internship Program is available for download. No prior experience is necessary and training will be provided. The Internship is open to students and staff of recognised institutions. Preference will be given to individuals involved in marine mammal science courses or related institutions and/or with prior volunteer marine mammal field experience. Places will be allocated in the order they are received.

General information about The Oceania Project and the Research Expedition is online at:
http://www.oceania.org.au/

If you are interested in participating in the Whale Research Expedition as an Intern email Trish & Wally Franklin and include a brief CV
trish.wally@oceania.org.au ]
or you can register online.

Trish & Wally Franklin
The Oceania Project
PO Box 646
Byron Bay
NSW 2481
Australia
ABN 73 052 470 630
ACN 052 470 630
Phone: + 61 02 6685 8128
Fax: + 61 02 9225 9176
Mobile: 0418 797326
Email: trish.wally@oceania.org.au
Web: http://www.oceania.org.au/ and http://www.iwhales.org/
PhD Candidates Southern Cross University
http://www.scu.edu.au/research/whales/theteam.html

Voluntariado: Australia!

Volunteers required for humpback whale research in Australia.

We are seeking applications from volunteers to help with field work on the effects of noise on humpback whales from 20 September to 19 October,2008. The work will take place during the whales' southward migration along the Australian east coast and is funded by the Australian Centre for Applied Marine Mammal Science (ACAMMS).

The field work will take place at Peregian Beach, approximately 140km north of Brisbane. This will be a multi-disciplinary study of the passing whales during their southward migration and include controlled exposure experiments (CEEs), the deployment of DTAGs, the collection of behavioural and positional data from a land station, the acoustic recording and tracking of singers using an array of hydrophone buoys moored offshore, and the boat-based collection of photo-IDs, biopsies and blow mucus samples.

Volunteers should be available for the entire four week study. You will be responsible for your transport to and from Peregian Beach, but once there, we will provide accommodation and food. The project will suit young scientists with genuine interests in humpback whale behaviour, behavioural ecology, acoustics and communication.

Successful applicants will:
- have a mature attitude towards marine mammal research.
- be able to live and work constructively with others in a team.
- have a good level of physical fitness.
- not be too fussy an eater as cooking will be communal (vegetarians excepted!).

Preference will be given to those who:
- have a degree in biology, marine science, or veterinary science.
- have previous relevant marine mammal field experience.

Applicants should send an email introducing themselves to
Michael Noad
mnoad@uq.edu.au,

Rebecca Dunlop
r.dunlop@uq.edu.au

and Melinda Rekdahl
m.rekdahl@uq.edu.au.

The email should include an outline of why you would like to work on this project, your qualifications and previous experience. Please also attach a brief CV including the contact details of two relevant referees.

Applications will be accepted until 30 June and places will be offered soon after this to allow you time to make travel arrangements.

Michael Noad
BVSc PhD Lecturer,
Veterinary Anatomy Head,
Cetacean Ecology and Acoustics Laboratory
School of Veterinary Science
University of Queensland
St Lucia,
Qld 4072,
Australia
Ph. +61 7 3365 2088
Mob. +61 416 270567
Fax. +61 7 3365 1255
Email mnoad@uq.edu.au

Rebecca Dunlop
BSc PhD
Cetacean Ecology and Acoustics Laboratory
School of Veterinary Science
University of Queensland
St Lucia,
Qld 4072,
Australia
Ph. (07)3365-3066
Mob. 0437434041
Fax. (07)3365-1255
Email r.dunlop@uq.edu.au

Voluntariado: Nueva Zelanda!

Volunteer positions are available to assist with dusky dolphin behavioural ecology research in Kaikoura, New Zealand.

Field work will be conducted from a dedicated research vessel and tour vessels.Boat work is weather dependent and volunteer positions will include data entry, photo-id matching and analysis tasks.

Volunteers will gain experience in dolphin photo-identification techniques, behavioural data collection and analysis, and small boat handling.

Previous experience is not necessary, but flexibility and the ability to work in a variety of conditions at sea is a must.

Volunteers will be asked to commit to the project for 1-2 months and will be responsible for their own food, housing ($140-$200 NZ per week) and transportation.

Positions are available from Sept 1st-Oct 15th, Nov 20th-Dec 20th and Jan 20th-March 31st, 2009.

To apply for the position please submit a cover letter summarizing any related experience and approximate dates of availability to Wendy.Markowitz@yahoo.com.

For full consideration please enclose a copy of your C.V. with email addresses and phone numbers for three professional references.

Wendy Markowitz,
Ph.D. Candidate Ecology Department,
Massey University
Dusky Dolphin Research Project
Edward Percival Field Station
The Esplanade
Kaikoura, New Zealand

Voluntariado: Australia!

Hi all!

I’m looking for volunteers to help me with the field work for my PhD project, studying bottlenose dolphins in Moreton Bay, Queensland, Australia.

The project investigates the foraging ecology and population structure of the bottlenose dolphins in Moreton Bay. We will do boat surveys to look for bottlenose as well as humpback dolphins, conduct behavioural observations, take photographs of the animals for photo ID, and collect biopsy samples for genetic analysis.

I need field assistants from July to September 2008. A minimum commitment of 1 month is expected but preference will be given to applicants willing to stay the entire 3 month period.

Previous field experience, especially driving boats and photographing animals, would be great, but is not expected. An interest in marine mammal research and a dedication to get up early and spend long hours out on the water whenever the weather is good is a must!

Unfortunately I’m not able to pay for travel and other expenses, but I may be able to provide free accommodation (in Brisbane and at the Moreton Bay Research Station on North Stradbroke Island).

If you’re interested please send an email with your CV to i.ansmann@uq.edu.au

Cheers,
Ina

Ina Ansmann (PhD candidate)
Marine Vertebrate Ecology Research Group
School of Integrative Biology
The University of Queensland
St Lucia, QLD 4072
Australia
Phone: (+61) 7 3365 7523
Email: i.ansmann@uq.edu.au

Voluntariado: Australia!

Shark Bay Humpback Whale Survey, 2008

Project title: Population status of Western Australian humpback whales.

This project will complement a major existing data setf rom surveys undertaken in 1999 and 2005 on northward migrating humpback whales from one of seven currently recognized southern hemisphere breeding stocks (Breeding Stock D).

As in 2005, there will be two components (i) an aerial survey over two months, covering the peak migration period past Shark Bay, WA, where regular aerial surveys provided relative abundance and trend information over 1982-1994; (ii) a land-based survey over a shorter period, to 'ground-truth' the aerial survey. The result should be an estimated current absolute abundance for this Breeding Stock for use in comprehensive assessments of southern hemisphere whale stocks, essential for their conservation and rational management.

Up to 6 participants are needed as part of a team to help with the land-based element of an aerial survey for humpback whales off SharkBay, Western Australia. Shark Bay is located on the most western point of the coast of Australia and field work will be undertaken on Dirk Hartog Island, an island within the Shark Bay World Heritage Area world renowned for its significant conservation values due to its diverse and ecologically important species of plants and animals.

When: for approx 2 weeks from approx 6th July 2008.
What: to observe, count and record northbound humpback whales within visual range of the cliffs of Dirk Hartog Island, off the west coast of Shark Bay.
Who: Participants must
- have an interest in marine biology
- show common sense and have proven ability to work as part of a team
- have general outdoor field experience (camping will be involved)
Desired:
- have a first degree in science Preferred: -
have previous cetacean experience
- previous experience in theodolite tracking and Cyclopes 4 wheel drive ability would be an advantage.

All expenses will be covered during the survey. Some limited assistance may be available for transport Perth/Denham and return. Anyone interested should email Rebecca Dunlop and Joshua Smith (seebelow) immediately, with a cover letter, CV, the names of two referees and contact details.

Dr. Rebecca Dunlop
School of Veterinary Sciences
University of Queensland
St. Lucia QLD 4072
Tel: +61 7 33652088 0437434041
Email: r.dunlop@uq.edu.au

Joshua Smith
School of Integrative Biology
University of Queensland
St Lucia, Qld 4072, Australia
Phone: +61 7 3365 4825
Email j.smith@sib.uq.edu.au

Voluntariado: Australia!

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: June to September 2008; January to March 2009; June to September 2009; and January to March 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 analyzed 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 postmortem 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. 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 two letters 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/ or http://www.travelau.com.au/wa/bunbury/

Voluntariado: Australia!

The Oceania Project, during August-October 2008, is conducting vessel based fieldwork for a long-term study of the behaviour and social organisation of humpback whales in Hervey Bay.

The Expedition vessel 'Moon Dancer' is a 12m-power catamaran. http://www.oceania.org.au/expedition/research.html

The Oceania Project is affiliated with Southern Cross University incorporating the Southern Cross University Whale Research Centre (SCUWRC) and the Centre for Animal Conservation Genetics (SCU CACG) and is an affiliate of the South Pacific Whale Research Consortium (SPWRC).
http://www.oceania.org.au/footer_stuff/about_us.html

The focus of the research being undertaken is a long term study of the social behaviour, population dynamics and ecological significance of Hervey Bay for the Area V (E1) humpback whale group. In addition we are investigating genetic relatedness amongst humpbacks in Hervey Bay, the implications for social organisation and reproductive success and the extent to which social behaviour is determined by kinship.

There is an opportunity for up to five Interns to participate in the research expedition each week during August-October 2008. Interns live aboard the expedition vessel for a week or more subject to time and budget constraints. The cost per week is $1950 Australian which includes accommodation aboard the expedition vessel and food. Interns are responsible for all costs associated with travel to and from Hervey Bay.

Fieldwork involved is 'sloughed skin' and faecal sample collection, assistance with photo identification/behavioural observation field notes, GPS/GIS spatial data collection, environmental data, water quality sampling and general data entry.

Interns also assist with vessel operations including food preparation & galley duties. Sea time can be validated towards a marine qualification.
http://www.oceania.org.au/expedition/life.html

A pdf with detailed information about the Internship Program is available for download.

No prior experience is necessary and training will be provided. The Internship is open to students and staff of recognised institutions. Preference will be given to individuals involved in marine mammal science courses or related institutions and/or with prior volunteer marine mammal field experience. Places will be allocated in the order registrations are received.

General information about The Oceania Project and the Research Expedition is online at: http://www.oceania.org.au

If you are interested in participating in the Whale Research Expedition as an Intern you can register online.

If you have questions or queries please email Trish & Wally Franklin and include a brief CV trish.wally@oceania.org.au

Trish Franklin & Wally Franklin
Directors & Principal Investigators,
The Oceania Project
PhD Candidates,
Southern Cross University

PO Box 646 Byron Bay
NSW 2481 Australia

ABN 73 052 470 630
ACN 052 470 630
Phone: + 61 02 6685 8128
Fax: + 61 02 9225 9176
Mobile: 0418 797326
Email: trish.wally@oceania.org.au
Web: http://www.oceania.org.au and http://www.iwhales.org
PhD Candidates Southern Cross University http://www.scu.edu.au/research/whales/theteam.html