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Marine Mammal Research Internships 2010-2011

(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 a non-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 (May 24 - August 20) and Fall (August 16 - December 17) semesters of 2010, and Spring (January 31 - May 27) semesters of 2011.  Please note:  All positions are filled in the spring of each year. 

 

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 42’ research vessel The Mysticete, attendance at necropsies (whale autopsies), marine mammal stranding response, harbor seal surveys and attendance at conferences and meetings. 

 

The internship fee for the 2010-2011 season is yet to be finalized (a fee of $1250 was charged for the 2009 season). Interns will receive housing in Gloucester within walking distance to the office and boats.  A common apartment is used, 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 or more) in the field or office

* Completed their freshmen year at the time of application

 

In order to apply for an internship: please send a resume, a cover letter detailing your reason(s) for applying, one letter of reference, and an updated transcript.  Once your application has been received, an interview will be arranged. In-person interviews are preferred, necessitating travel to Gloucester, MA, during one of two weekends in March 2010 (to be determined at a later date). All applications must be submitted by March 1, 2010.  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. 

 

 

Application materials and questions regarding the internship should be directed to the intern coordinator: Jenn Tackaberry

 

Jennifer Tackaberry

P.O. Box 159

Gloucester, MA 01930

978-281-6351 (office)

978-281-5666 (fax)

[log in to unmask]

                                                                                                                                                                      

The Joint Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Research (JIMAR) works closely with The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center through a cooperative agreement with the University of Hawaii, and will be accepting applications for the upcoming 2010 field research season to study the endangered Hawaiian monk seal in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. This work is part of a long-term annual Hawaiian monk seal population monitoring and conservation program by NMFS which includes: conducting trend counts; tagging seals; identifying individual seals by tags, scars, natural markings, and applied bleach marks; monitoring reproduction, survival, injuries, entanglements, migration, performing necropsies; collecting scat & spew samples for food habitat, parasite load, and hormonal analysis; collecting tissue samples for DNA analysis; collecting & removing debris capable of entangling seals and other wildlife.  Behavior data are also collected at some sites.  In addition, researchers will periodically handle, weigh, and administer de-worming medication to immature seals at some sites in an effort to increase seal condition and survival by removing parasite loads.  For general information about the program, visit this website:

http://www.pifsc.noaa.gov/psd/

Employment will be from mid-April to early September, though some positions will continue until mid/late September.  The number of positions and/or continuation of the program is subject to funding. 

The first 3 weeks of employment are spent in Honolulu training and packing, and the final weeks are also spent in Honolulu to clean up gear and summarize data.  Travel to Honolulu and food and lodging while in Honolulu are not provided; a listing of potential housing options is available. Transportation between Honolulu and the field site, and food and lodging in the field are provided.
 
Field work is accomplished by 2-5 member teams in remote camps.  Researchers live in either wall tents or buildings at the various sites.  All sites are accessible by ship (2-8 day travel; 830-2,300 km from Honolulu), and two are accessible by plane.  Few supply opportunities exist and outside communication is limited.
 
Employment will be provided by JIMAR, which hires its program and scientific staff through the Research Corporation of the University of Hawaii (RCUH).  To search and apply for RCUH positions, refer to the following website:
 
http://www.rcuh.com/
 
*NO LATER THAN JANUARY 18 (OR JANUARY 21 DEPENDING ON POSITION) BUT SOONER IS BETTER*
 
IMPORTANT:  Please specify in your cover letter the period you are available, remote field experience, animal handling experience, and boating skills.  The job postings for the JIMAR PIFSC Biological Research Assistant recruitment (for Field Camp Assistant) and JIMAR PIFSC Biological Technician recruitment (for Field Camp Leader) are below.  Each position needs to be applied for separately.  Please apply directly to RCUH Human Resources following the methods stated in the posting by the appropriate closing date (January 18 or January 21). 

 

JIMAR PIFSC BIOLOGICAL RESEARCH ASSISTANT – ID# 29558. Joint Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Research.  (11) Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST), Joint Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Research (JIMAR), located at the National Marine Fisheries (NMFS), Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center (PIFSC) in Honolulu, Hawaii.  Continuation of employment is dependent upon program/operational needs, satisfactory work performance, and availability of funds. MINIMUM MONTHLY SALARY: $1,730/Mo. DUTIES: Under guidance of field camp leader and/or NMFS personnel, assists in camp preparations, daily maintenance and operation of field camp, and collection of census and life history data on Hawaiian monk seals.  Conducts boating operations at multiple-island atolls.  Assists with return, repair, and clean-up of field equipment and supplies at the end of camp.  PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS:  EDUCATION: High School Diploma or equivalent. EXPERIENCE:  One to three (1-3) years of field experience, including experience working within small groups in remote settings. Experience with handling of wildlife.  ABIL/KNOW/SKILLS:  Working knowledge of personal computers including use of word processing, spreadsheets, and databases.  Good communication and team skills.  Ability to perform data entry. PHYSICAL/MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS: Ability to swim. Ability to work in remote locations for extended periods of time.  Must be able to work long hours in the sun. Must be able to walk long distances (up to 7 miles) in the sand carrying 25-35 pounds of field gear.  Must be able to manually restrain immature seals (up to 200 pounds).  Must be able to obtain medical clearance for embarking/working on NOAA research vessels or other appropriate vessels which includes providing proof of required immunizations and/or obtaining the necessary immunizations as required by NOAA Marine and Aviation Operations.  Must meet the US Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration security requirements for working in a federal facility which includes being fingerprinted and having a federal background check performed.  Must be able to pass pre-deployment training requirements including field medical training before being deployed to remote islands. SECONDARY QUALIFICATIONS: Prior field experience in a Hawaiian monk seal field camp. Previous experience in field or laboratory studies of marine mammals, previous experience handling marine mammals, previous data entry experience. Prefer applicants interested in pursuing career in marine mammology or related field.  For positions requiring travel between multiple-island atolls, possess prior experience operating small boats and/or the ability to conduct routine maintenance on small boats.  Possess NOAA certification for small boat operations (having completed Motorboat Operators Certification Course (MOCC) and NOAA small boat component training) to work at multiple-island atolls.  INQUIRIES: Nicole Wakazuru 956-9465 (Oahu). APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS:  The preferred method of applying for a job is through our on-line application process.  Please go to www.rcuh.com, click on “Employment” and navigate to “Job Announcements/Apply for a Job.” However, if you do not have access to the Internet, you may apply by submitting resume; cover letter including Recruitment ID#, referral source, narrative of your qualifications for position and salary history; names, phone numbers and addresses of three supervisory references and copy of degree(s)/transcripts/certificate(s) to qualify for position by fax (808) 956-5022 or mail to Director of Human Resources, Research Corporation of the University of Hawaii, 2530 Dole Street, Sakamaki Hall D-100, Honolulu, HI 96822 before the closing date.  If you have questions on the application process and/or need assistance, please call (808)956-3100.  CLOSING DATE: January 18, 2010. EEO/AA Employer.

 

JIMAR PIFSC BIOLOGICAL RESEARCH TECHNICIAN – ID# 29587. Joint Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Research. (6) Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST), Joint Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Research (JIMAR), located at the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), Pacific Islands Regional Office (PIFSC) in Honolulu, Hawaii.  Continuation of employment is dependent upon program/operational needs, satisfactory work performance, and availability of funds.  MINIMUM MONTHLY SALARY: $1,871.00. DUTIES:  Performs daily maintenance and operation of field camp. Collects census and life history data on Hawaiian monk seals.  Conducts boating operations at multiple-island atolls. Required to lead other field personnel. Responsible for returning and storing all field equipment and supplies at the end of camp. Collaborates with scientists within NMFS to conduct and analyze field studies on the Hawaiian monk seal in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS: EDUCATION:  Associate's Degree from an accredited community college in Marine Biology, Biology, Fisheries Oceanography or other related field.  EXPERIENCE:  One to three (1-3) years of field experience, including experience working within small groups in remote settings.  Experience conducting research on Hawaiian monk seals.  Experience handling monk seals. ABIL/KNOW/SKILLS:  Working knowledge of personal computers including use of word processing, spreadsheets, and databases.  Good communications skills (both written and oral). Leadership and decision-making skills.  Ability to perform data entry. For positions requiring travel between multiple-island atolls, must be NOAA certified for small boat operations (having completed Motorboat Operators Certification Course (MOCC) and NOAA small boat component training). Post Offer/Employment Conditions:  Must meet the US Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration security requirements for working in a federal facility which includes being fingerprinted and having a federal background check performed.  Must be able to pass pre-deployment training requirements including field medical training before being deployed to remote island. PHYSICAL/MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS:  Ability to swim. Ability to work in remote locations for extended periods of time.  Must be able to work long hours in the sun.  Must be able to walk long distances (up to 7 miles) in the sand carrying 25-35 pounds of field gear. Must be able to obtain medical clearance for embarking/working on NOAA research vessels or other appropriate vessels which includes providing proof of required immunizations and/or obtaining the necessary immunizations as required by NOAA Marine and Aviation Operations. SECONDARY QUALIFICATIONS:  Prior field experience in a Hawaiian monk seal field camp.  Previous experience in field or laboratory studies of marine mammals, previous experience handling marine mammals, previous data entry experience, prefer applicants interested in pursuing career in marine mammology or related field.  Ability to perform basic data analysis. For positions requiring travel between multiple-island atolls, possess the ability to conduct routine maintenance on small boats.  INQUIRIES: Nicole Wakazuru 956-9465 (Oahu). APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS:  The preferred method of applying for a job is through our on-line application process. Please go to www.rcuh.com, click on “Employment” and navigate to “Job Announcements/Apply for a Job.” However, if you do not have access to the Internet, you may apply by submitting resume; cover letter including Recruitment ID#, referral source, narrative of your qualifications for position and salary history; names, phone numbers and addresses of three supervisory references and copy of degree(s)/transcripts/certificate(s) to qualify for position by fax (808) 956-5022 or mail to Director of Human Resources, Research Corporation of the University of Hawaii, 2530 Dole Street, Sakamaki Hall D-100, Honolulu, HI 96822 before the closing date.  If you have questions on the application process and/or need assistance, please call (808)956-3100. CLOSING DATE: January 21, 2009. EEO/AA Employer.


--
Thea Johanos
Lead, Monk Seal Population Assessment Program
Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center
1601 Kapiolani Blvd. Suite 1110
Honolulu, HI 96814-4700

808-944-2174 office
808-941-0307 fax

                                                                                                                                                                         

Please post the following advert for volunteers:
 
Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre, New Quay, Wales
www.cbmwc.org
 
Marine Wildlife & Conservation Volunteer opportunities
 
Are you planning a career in the marine environment or conservation?
 
Volunteer positions are available at the Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre.
 
Volunteering is a great way to develop skills and gain essential experience!
 
Reliable and enthusiastic people are needed to help with our ongoing research, education and interpretation programmes concerning the marine wildlife of Cardigan Bay. We primarily study the bottlenose dolphins through photo-identification and also monitor harbour porpoise and Atlantic grey seal populations.
 
Volunteers play a vital role in the Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre’s work. The centre relies on the generous help of volunteers to undertake its work and greatly appreciates your time. Please note enthusiasm for our work and the marine environment is as valued as experience, since training is provided.
 
This is a fantastic opportunity for you to make a positive contribution to marine wildlife conservation and to gain knowledge and experience of the species and habitats in Cardigan Bay. It can be a great chance to gain experience of field work, research methods and public awareness and education programmes. Gain essential skills for a career in the environment or conservation such as developing your fundraising, interpersonal and data processing skills as well as meeting and socialising with people who share your interests.
 
If you have any specific skills or experience such as in designing environmental education programmes, website creation, fundraising, the media, DIY skills, exhibition, interior or graphic design and would like to help with project development, please contact us.
 
We also welcome undergraduate and postgraduate students who need boat support and office space to conduct their research projects. Please contact us to discuss whether your project ideas are feasible.
 
For further information
To find out more about the Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre and what activities you would be involved in visit www.cbmwc.org/volunteer/become_vol.asp. If you have any questions please email [log in to unmask] with an appropriate subject line or call Laura on 01545 560032.
 
 
Volunteering at CBMWC
Desired skills
An interest in wildlife and conservation is most important, along with reliability, enthusiasm and willingness to work in a conscientious and responsible manner. As you will be dealing with the public on a daily basis it is also important that you are fluent in speaking English. We welcome people with experience working with children, the public or in environmental interpretation or education, however this is not essential. Indeed this is a great opportunity to gain skills in these areas. Good verbal and written communication skills, IT, design and fundraising skills are likewise useful but not essential.
 
Time commitment
Volunteers are needed from April until November 2010. We ask for a minimum commitment of 4 weeks (due to training), ideally volunteers would be able to commit longer. Volunteers living locally who are available on a part-time basis are also welcome year round and are greatly appreciated.
Accommodation and expense arrangements
Basic accommodation can be arranged for committed volunteers (approx £55 per week). Volunteers are responsible for their own food, travel and accommodation costs.
  How to get involved…
It’s easy to get involved simply download a simple application form from our website www.cbmwc.org/volunteer/become_vol.asp, complete it and email it to [log in to unmask] with ‘Volunteer application 2010’ in your subject line or alternatively post your application form. Please make sure you fill in your availability. We look forward to hearing from you.
 
Postal address:
FAO: Laura Mears
Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre
Patent Slip Building, Glanmor Terrace
New Quay, Ceredigion
Wales, SA45 9PS
 
As seen on:
Iolo’s Welsh Safari, Autumn 2007 http://www.bbc.co.uk/wales/nature/sites/behindthescenes/pages/newquay.shtml
 & BBC Natures Calendar Summer 2007
http://www.bbc.co.uk/naturescalendar/summer/coast/cardigan_bay/cardigan_access.shtml
 
Laura Mears
Project Officer
__________________________________________________________________
 
Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre
Patent Slip Building
Glanmor Terrace
New Quay
Ceredigion
SA45 9PS
West Wales, UK
 
Ffon/Phone: 01545 560032
E-bost/E-mail: [log in to unmask]
Website: www.cbmwc.org
 
www.cbmwc.org
http://twitter.com/CBMWC
 
Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre is supported by the Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Group, a Marine interest group of the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales.
 
Helping to conserve Cardigan Bay's Marine Wildlife through education, interpretation and research.
Cynorthwyo i gadw Bywyd gwyllt Moral Bae Aberteifi trwy addysg as ymchwil.
 
__________________________________________________________________
 
The contents of this email are confidential and are soley for the use of the intended recipient. If you receive this email in error please delete it and notify us either by email or telephone. It is prohibited to copy, forward or otherwise disclose the contents of this email.