We are currently accepting lastest applications to join our research team to monitor cetaceans off the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park (Spain)
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: - WHEN & WHERE: From 2nd until 15th October 2017 we will carry out the first boat based surveys to monitor the pesence of pelagic cetacean species and marine birds offshore the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park (NW Spain). This is an important hotspot for cetaceans and marine birds, an important area of upwelling and it is considered to be one of the most productive oceanic regions in the world. No fewer than 22 cetacean species have been recorded in these waters over the years but there is a lack of information about species distribution and abundance. - OBJECTIVES: The BDRI research vessel will be engaged in a marine mammal assessment survey of waters off the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park (Spain). The overall objective of the expedition is to understand the distribution of cetacean species commonly found in this area. Being the first legs of the transects we dont know what we will find but we have high expectations of high biodiversity. During the last weeks we have seen regularly fin whales, common bottlenose dolphins, minke whales, harbour porpoises, short-beaked common dolphins, Risso's dolphins, and one blue whale in coastal waters. And the exciting part is that it is yet to be discovered! Moreover, we will monitor the presence of multiple species of marine birds such as different species of shearwaters, gulls, petrels, terns, skuas, gannets, auks, cormorants and much more. - HOW: During 5 daily cruises per week, the research team will conduct visual surveys of cetaceans and marine birds along predetermined transects. Daily procedures and field schedule are strongly dependent on current weather conditions. Daily monitoring surveys usually last between 8 and 12 hours. The ship will depart from O Grove to transit to the study area every day and will return every night at the harbour. The data collected will provide information on cetacean density, distribution, group size and composition. Along with the marine life observations, environmental data will be collected to characterize cetacean habitat and its variation over time. During bad weather the volunteers will work together with researchers on data sorting and data analysis at the BDRI's lab. The scientific field party will consist of four experienced marine mammal researchers and research assitants. Chief Scientist for the expedition is BDRI chief biologist Bruno Díaz López. - REQUIREMENTS: This program is an opportunity to participate in a boat-based research expedition and to obtain training in marine mammals and marine birds research. - This program is open to all applicants 18 years of age or older. - No previous experience is required and all training and equipment will be provided to participants. - A strong interest in marine biology and conservation, self-motivation, and willingness to learn and work under often difficult (but rewarding) open ocean boat-based field conditions. The BDRI is a very international environment, and the working language is English. The BDRI is a small private and self-funded research education centre, hence, there is an participation fee (560 Euros for the week and 1 000 Euros for two weeks) which includes the boat based surveys, training, accommodation in an apartment, use of equipment, and other expenses derived of your participation in the expeditions and lab work. Successful applicants will be responsible for their own transportation expenses to and from the research centre (O Grove, Galicia, Spain). The income generated allows BDRI to carry out the expenses generated by this research expedition, you can be assured that without your contribution this type of research couldn't be undertaken. - HOW TO APPLY: Positions are open for one week or two weeks until filled (maximum 9 volunteer expeditioners) from 2nd until 15th October. Approved applications are accepted on a first-come, first serve basis. Interested candidates should submit an email with a cover letter explaining why you are interested in the project and your dates availability to: [email protected] For more information about BDRI's research and conservation work, please visit www.thebdri.com or our Facebook page. Best regards, and see you onboard! Bruno Díaz López Chief biologist and Director The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI Avenida Beiramar 192, O Grove 36980, Spain www.thebdri.com 0034 684 248552 This email is confidential to the intended recipient(s) and the contents may be legally privileged or contain proprietary and private informations. It is intended solely for the person to whom it is addressed. If you are not an intended recipient, you may not review, copy or distribute this email. If received in error, please notify the sender and delete the message from your system immediately. 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