[SEMCO] Right Whale Observer Internship Posting - Provincetown, MA USA

[Stephanie Richardson]

Center for Coastal Studies (CCS)

Right Whale Ecology Program

Observer Internship Announcement



The Center for Coastal Studies (CCS), a nonprofit institution dedicated to
the understanding and protection of our coastal environment and marine
ecosystems, is seeking a seasonal Right Whale Ecology Program intern from
January through May 2018. This long-term project focuses on documenting the
abundance, distribution and behavior of North Atlantic right whales and
their food resource in Cape Cod Bay and adjacent Massachusetts waters. The
intern will be the primary vessel observer for the project and will
participate in research cruises up to four days a week. Fieldwork
responsibilities include photographing critically endangered North Atlantic
right whales, collecting behavioral and environmental data, recording other
sightings events (species, vessels and fishing gear), and working with a
habitat research team both in the field and in the lab. Lab
responsibilities include photo-analysis (downloading images, inputting
sightings information, matching individuals to known animals using an
online and in-house catalog, cataloging), database entry and maintenance,
assisting the aerial team and maintaining vessel field equipment.



Minimum Requirements:

-       A college degree, preferably in biological/ environmental sciences

-       Previous marine mammal survey experience, including experience in
photo-identification of large cetaceans

-       Experience with digital SLR cameras, lenses, and filters

-       Basic computer literacy and experience using Microsoft Office
programs (Excel, Word,     PowerPoint). Experience with database entry and
management is preferred

-       Experience working on boats, ability to withstand harsh elements,
and not be prone to serious seasickness

-       Must be able to live and work well in a team

-       Enthusiasm and willingness to learn field and lab-based research
methods

-       Strong attention to detail and ability to work well under pressure


Preferred Qualifications:

-       Experience using iMatch image database software

-       Experience using GPS equipment

-       Ability to estimate object ranges from a vessel

-       Not prone to seasickness

-       A valid US driver’s license



The successful applicant will be required to work a minimum of four full
days per week and will need to be flexible for research cruises due to
weather constrictions. The intern will often collect data independently in
the field, thus responsible, detail-oriented applicants are encouraged to
apply. Applicants must be available for the full field season and must be
willing to work weekends, holidays and evenings as needed. Housing will be
provided, as well as a small stipend to cover general living expenses.



CCS has a long history of conservation and research work with the North
Atlantic right whale and Cape Cod Bay has been a major critical habitat for
over 50% of the estimated population in recent years. This is an excellent
opportunity for anyone wishing to expand their skills in marine mammal
survey techniques, and will offer the successful applicant the unique
chance to work with one of the world’s most endangered cetaceans. This
internship will afford the successful applicant an invaluable opportunity
to work within a well-established institution, with highly-qualified
scientists, and to gain experience in photo-identification, matching, and
data entry and analysis. Experience in oceanographic sampling can also be
gained. Details of our work can be found on our website:
http://coastalstudies.org/right-whale-research/



How to Apply:

The application package should include the following attachment(s):

1)    A cover letter describing your specific interests in marine mammal
science, internship qualifications, and how the experience would assist you
in reaching career goals

2)    CV/resume

3)    College transcripts (unofficial are sufficient)

4)    The names and contact information of two references



Application materials must be e-mailed in PDF format to: Stephanie
Richardson, srichardson at coastalstudies.org, with the following text in the
subject line: 2018 RW observer internship. Deadline for submissions:
September 30, 2017

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