Florida International University and the Shark Bay Ecosystem Research Project (SBERP) are seeking volunteer assistants to help with fieldwork for a marine turtle foraging ecology and seagrass monitoring project in Western Australia between October 20th and December 18th, 2013. We will be deploying animal-borne video recorders to study the foraging behaviour of green turtles and conducting in-water surveys to monitor the distribution of seagrasses following a major die-off related to a marine heat wave in 2011. In addition to fieldwork, assistants will participate in shore-based activities including video transcription, data entry and processing of seagrass samples for lab analysis.We are looking for positive, energetic and physically fit individuals who show strong attention to detail and are happy working and living in a small team environment with relatively little personal space. Because much of this work will involve diving, scientific diver certification (AAUS) is required. Experience working on small boats is also an asset. Our volunteers are responsible for their own travel to and from the field site but, while there, room and board (food is basic but plentiful) are provided.
For a summary of the overall research program in Shark Bay, please click here. For more detailed information on the upcoming field season please contact me at the email address provided. To apply, send a cover letter and CV (be sure to include boating and diving experience/certifications) with two references by email.
Contact Information:
Jordan Thomson
Post-doctoral Associate
Marine Sciences Program
Florida International University
jathoms AT fiu.edu