Internships required for bottlenose dolphin research project in Sardinia Island, Italy

Hi everyone,

on behalf of the Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI, I am pleased to announce that our centre is currently accepting internships applications for the Summer-Fall term (a minimum of 60 days of participation between June - November 2011) in Sardinia Island, Italy.

BDRI's researchers are engaged in the conduction of a long term study about the ecology and behaviour of wild unrestrained bottlenose dolphins and the potential effects of human activities (fisheries, aquaculture and tourism) in their distribution and behaviour. An internship period with the BDRI offers an invaluable exposure to boat based field work,marine mammals research, intensive training and mentoring in marine biology.

Undergraduate and postgraduate students could present their BDRI's personal research project as their Thesis if requested with the application. Internships can be used for academic or vocational purposes, but students are solely responsible for making all arrangements for receiving relevant credit(s) as a result of completing the internship.

Interns can expect to participate in and learn a variety of facets of marine mammal research as research assistants in four diverse research projects:

1. Bottlenose dolphin's repertorie and communication use: Knowledge of how individuals within a population communicate and what they are communicating can generate information ranging from measures of habitat use, social relevance, geographical variation, cultural transmission to genetic fitness that can be applied to conservation.

2. Mediterranean bottlenose dolphins societies: We will take and analyse identification photos, study group structure and composition to refine details of dolphin societies and responses to human activities at sea. Volunteers assist with data collection onboard helping to locate, photograph and keep track of bottlenose dolphin groups. Back at the lab volunteers restock field supplies, analyse photos and transcribe data collected.

3. "Large whales & Dolphins off Sardinia Island" Data are collected from multiple platforms including shore and research vessel based platforms. The behaviour and distribution of large cetaceans (fin whales and sperm whales) observed off Sardinia is still unknown. While some animals could be in migration between the Ligurian and Thyrrenian Sea others could be mainly engaged in foraging activities in specific period of the year in this area.

There is no compensation for these internship positions and successful applicants will be responsible for their own transportation expenses to and from the research camp (Sardinia, Italy). As a number of students are unemployed people are unable to meet our program and travel costs, BDRI has developed a financial resource to support some of them.

There is no deadline to apply. However, approved applications are accepted on a first-come, first serve basis. Apply early! Start and end dates are flexible. Positions are open until filled. Successful candidates will be ready and willing to learn, self-motivated, and flexible. Prior field research experience is recommended but not required.

Please download the internships general information at:

www.thebdri.com/resources/downloads/internships.pdf

and the application from:

www.thebdri.com/resources/downloads/applicationinternships.rtf

Send cover letter or inquiries by email to the Research Chief, Mr. Bruno Diaz Lopez, at info@thebdri.com. Please indicate in your cover letter the dates you are available.

Selected scientific publications by BDRI:

1. Díaz López B., in press. Whistle characteristics in free-ranging bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in the Mediterranean Sea: influence of behaviour. Mammalian Biology DOI: 10.1016/j.mambio.2010.06.006

2. Díaz López B. & Shirai, J.A.B., 2009. Mediterranean common bottlenose dolphin's repertoire and communication use. In: Dolphins: Anatomy, Behavior, and Threats, A.G: Pierce & L. Correa (Eds.), Nova Science Publishers, New York.

3. Diaz Lopez B., 2009. The bottlenose dolphin Tursiops truncatus foraging around a fish farm: Effects of prey abundance on dolphins' behaviour. Current Zoology (Acta Zoologica Sinica) 55(4):243-248.

4. Diaz Lopez B., Bunke, M. and Shirai, J.A., 2008. Marine aquaculture off Sardinia Island (Italy): ecosystem effects evaluated through a trophic mass-balance model. Ecological Modelling 212: 292-303.

5. Diaz Lopez, B., Shirai, J.A.; Bilbao Prieto, A. & M?ndez Fern?ndez, P., 2008. Diving activity of a solitary wild free ranging bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus). Journal of Marine Biological Association U.K. 88(6): 1153-1157.

6. Diaz Lopez B. and Shirai, J.A., 2008. Marine aquaculture and bottlenose dolphins social structure. Behavioural Ecology and Sociobiology 62(6): 887-894.

7. Diaz Lopez B. and Shirai, J.A., 2007. "Bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) presence and incidental capture in a marine fish farm on the noth-eastern coast of Sardinia (Italy)" Journal of Marine Biological Association U.K, 87, 113-117.

8. Diaz Lopez, B., 2006. "Bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) Predation on a Marine Fin Fish Farm: Some Underwater Observations". Aquatic Mammals 32(3): 305- 310 pp.

9. Diaz Lopez, B., 2006. Interactions between Mediterranean bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) and gillnets off Sardinia. ICES Journal of Marine Science

63:944-951 pp.

10. Diaz Lopez, B., Marini, L., Polo, F., 2005. The impact of a fish farm on a bottlenose dolphin population in the Mediterranean Sea. Thalassas 2005, 21(2):53-58.

Delfines, pesca y ciencia: una difícil relación

Sea Kayaking & Dolphins Research in Sardinia, Italy

AN UNFORGETABLE SARDINIAN WILDERNESS ADVENTURE

The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI (www.thebdri.com), a marine science and education centre, is happy to announce the new and original volunteering program entlited: “Sea Kayaking & Dolphins Research”.

This is a fully guided 7 day program along the north-eastern coast of Sardinia (Emerald Coast, Italy) focusing on sea kayaking with dolphins to study their communication and social lives. Seeing dolphins from sea kayaks is our opinion the best way view these wonderful mammals. Sea kayaking through this area off Sardinia Island is in itself rewarding, but when we see and study the society and communication of these resident bottlenose dolphins - its stunning!

You see those dorsal fins, hear the blows and whistles, and for a moment you are a part of their social group.The experience of listening to them (using hydrohpones) as we watch them swim by heightens the experience ten fold.

Mediterranean Sea play host to a multitude of marine life and allow us to silently explore the inaccessible coastal wilderness by sea kayak. Although our project focuses primarily on bottlenose dolphins, we often see seagulls (Adouin’s and yellow-legged), cormorants, shearwaters (Yelkouan and cory’s), peregrines, egrets, herons, ravens, carrion crows, sand martins, swifts, rock doves, terns, krestels, sea turtles, ospreys, buzzards, goshawks, mouflons, posidonia seagrass and more. Not everything is seen on ever expedition but we do get a great variety.

Enjoy sea kayaking, snorkelling and wildlife watching while you spend wonderful days living among marine birds, dolphins, fish, and other wildlife. This Sea-kayaking and dolphins research program is accessible to you even if you have never sat in a kayak before; have never participated in a research program; if you are alone or with friends or family; whatever your situation, if you have one week to spend we can provide you an experience you will likely never forget! contributing to dolphins research and conservation.

Comfortable housing (private and double rooms), with shared cooking and bathroom facilities are provided. There is no deadline to apply. APPLY NOW!, applications are accepted on a first-come, first serve basis. Positions are open until filled.

DATES (7 days/6 nights - Arrival day: Sunday & Departure day: Saturday):

Team 1: from July 11th to July 17th

Team 2: from July 25th to July 31st

Team 3: from August 22nd to August 28th

RENDEZVOUS POINT: Golfo Aranci, Sardinia, Italy

PARTICIPATION FEE: 600 EUROS / 719 USD

Read through this general information carefully:

www.thebdri.com/resources/downloads/kayak.pdf

decide and take note of any dates that may be preferred and submit your application:

www.thebdri.com/resources/downloads/applicationvolunteers.rtf

by email to info@thebdri.com

More information:

email: info@thebdri.com;

telephone: 00 39 346 0815414

Swim with us on Facebook

www.thebdri.com

Volunteers needed for dolphin research in Sardinia Island, Italy

Hi everyone,

on behalf of the Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI (www.thebdri.com), I am pleased to announce that our centre is currently accepting volunteers applications for the Spring-Summer term (a minimum of 6 days of participation) in Sardinia Island, Italy. The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI is a marine science and education centre committed to conserving the diversity and integrity of marine life to meet the needs of current and future generations.

We invite you to join our ongoing study of the behaviour, communication and social lives of bottlenose dolphins along the Emerald coast, Sardinia Island, Italy. Dedicated to those who are interested to participate to dolphin research and conservation campaigns. No background knowledge of biology is required. You will assist researchers with data collection and recording while on the boat, helping to locate and keep track of dolphins, recording behavioural data, environmental information and recording sounds, video or photos.

All expeditions are designed to enhance our awareness of dolphins, other marine life and the marine habitat that surrounds us. Our goal is to have each volunteer depart our centre with a greater understanding and appreciation of the marine environment and the wealth of life it supports.

Benefits and advantages of the program:

- Travel and explore new places

- Get involved in dolphin research

- Gain fieldwork experience

- Learn to analyse and obtain conclusions with the data collected during the fieldwork

- Learn to use different research instruments: GPS, Hydrophone, Secchi disk, digital SLR camera, sonar, camcorder, anemometer, compass, etc

- Help advance our knowledge of bottlenose dolphins to improve their conservation

- Meet interesting people

- Enjoy the outdoors of the beautiful Emerald Coast (Sardinia Island)

- Enjoy the culinary talents of others and express your own.

There is no deadline to apply. However, approved applications are accepted on a first-come, first serve basis. Apply early! Positions are open until filled.

Please download the Volunteer opportunities general information at:

http://www.thebdri.com/resources/downloads/volunteers.pdf

Further information can be found on our website (www.thebdri.com), or by e-mail at education@thebdri.com

Bruno Diaz Lopez

Chief Biologist / Director
Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI
V.Armando Diaz Nº4 07020 Golfo Aranci (SS) Italy
www.thebdri.com
info@thebdri.com
tel.+ 39 346 081 5414
tel. + 0789 183 1197

Vuoi diventare un vero esperto nello Studio dei mammiferi marini?

Vuoi diventare un vero esperto nello Studio dei mammiferi marini?

PARTECIPA NEI NUOVI CORSI DI FORMAZIONE: FIELD RESEARCH-ORIENTED COURSES IN MARINE MAMMALS SCIENCE FRC

Impara, passo dopo passo, le piu' avanzate tecniche di ricerca sui mammiferi marini, ed in particolare nello studio di popolazioni di delfini, participando nei nuovi corsi di formazione FRC (Field Research-oriented Courses in Marine Mammals Science) nella sede del Istituto BDRI in Sardegna.

Questi corsi di alto livello di formazione sono paragonabili per quantita' e qualita' dei contenuti ad un vero e proprio Master e sono finalizzati a creare figure altamente professionali in grado di partecipare all’interno di un progetto di ricerca, portare avanti un progetto di tesi, oppure svolgere attività presso aziende di whale-watching, ecc.

La formazione che riceverai durante i corsi riguarderà un ampia gamma di contenuti, che andranno dalla selezione delle metodologie d'indagine adeguate, raccolta dati sul campo, all'analisi e presentazione di dati scientifici. Durante i corsi riceverai lezioni, essempi chiari, dritte e suggerimenti pratici per portare avanti un vero progetto di ricerca per studiare i delfini in natura!

Per partecipare nei nostri corsi ti basta una forte passione per imparare questa materia grazie alla quale, le 72 ore di formazione operativa (9 giorni di corso e 1 giorno di riposo), basate su esempi e dimostrazioni pratiche a mare ed in laboratorio si trasformeranno in una piacevole e indimenticabile sperienza.

I corsi di formazione sono tenuti dal zoologo direttore del BDRI, il Dr. Diaz Lopez uno dei piu' noti ricercatori a livello internazionale nello studio dei delfini, con oltre 40 pubblicazioni scientifiche su prestigiosi giornali internazionali, coautore di diversi libri sul settore e relatore di tesi per studenti di oltre 20 Università Europee ed Americane.

La quantita' e la qualita' dei contenuti che troverai in questi corsi non hanno eguali: le nostre lezioni hanno un approccio completamente diverso dai tradizionali corsi in aula nelle Università italiane. Ma cio' che distingue radicalmente questi corsi di formazione e' l'approccio academico, concreto e operativo, tipico delle Università degli USA. Infatti il Dr. Diaz Lopez lavora, come “subject matter expert”, nella creazione di corsi di formazione per Università degli USA. Un approccio basato su un legame tra teoria-esempi e dimostrazioni pratiche sia a mare come in laboratorio.

In tutte le giornate, verra' utilizzato un metodo formativo, testato per i membri del BDRI negli ultimi 5 anni di attività di formazione, che consente a persone di diverso livello academico di rimanere "al passo" ed apprendere facilmente le tecniche spiegate (il nostro metodo formativo utilizza esempi ed esercitazioni pratiche per "accelerare" il grado di apprendimento in aula e a mare). I nostri corsi di formazione possono essere scelti per motivi academici ed ottenere crediti universitari, in questo caso gli studenti devono informarsi prima del corso di tutte le procedure a seguire per ottenere i crediti nelle loro Università.

I corsi sono tenuti in inglese ma possono essere tenuti in Italiano sempre e quando i partecipanti lo richiedano con anticipo. I gruppi saranno ridotti con un massimo di 6 partecipanti in modo tale che il docente sara' a disposizione per rispondere a domande specifiche o personali a chiunque lo desideri. In questo modo tutti, sia i novizi che i piu' esperti in materia, potranno ricevere consulti personalizzati e suggerimenti specifici.

Quello che insegniamo è frutto di oltre 15 anni di esperienza diretta e pratica sul campo di queste tecniche di ricerca. Quando ti diciamo che un metodo scientifico è il più adeguato ti portiamo le pubblicazioni scientifiche su prestigiosi giornali utilizzati dai più importanti gruppi di ricerca che te lo dimostrano. Il resto di osservazioni "per sentito dire" non ci interessano.

Il nostro obbiettivo e' che tu esca dai nostri corsi avendo imparato e pienamente soddisfatto. Infatti alla fine del corso i partecipanti ricevono un voto finale (in base ai test teorici e prattici) per dimostrare le conoscenze insieme ad un certificato finale di partecipazione. Vogliamo che, applicando le tecniche spiegate, tu possa ottenere i migliori risultati nel futuro (dottorato, lavoro di tesi specialistica, triennale, all’interno di un gruppo di ricerca, lavorando in una azienda di whale-watching, delfinario, ecc), applicando quello che hai appreso durante le 10 giornate di questo corso.

Ci sono tre diversi tipi di corsi di formazione divisi in due livelli: Intermedio ed avanzato.

FRC 1001 - Monitoring coastal bottlenose dolphin populations (Intermedio)

FRC 1002 - Social relationships and communication in a fission-fusion society (Avanzato)

FRC 1003 - Conservation and management of bottlenose dolphin populations (Avanzato)

Leggi atentamente il materiale informativo che potrai scaricare su www.thebdri.com/resources/downloads/courses.pdf questo materiale è in inglese, come anche le pubblicazioni scientifiche, ma se hai qualche dubbio non dubitare a chiedere!.

Il costo del corso comprende lezione teoriche, pratiche, materiale didattico, alloggio in un apartamento con altri studenti (camera doppia e singola), uso degli strumenti impiegati durante le lezione pratiche, materiale per la ricerca, tutte le spese associate al lavoro di campo a mare ed in laboratorio. Ci sono sconti speciali (tra un 10% e un 25%) per studenti e persone senza lavoro. Non è incluso il viaggio fino a Golfo Aranci (Sardegna).

La partecipazione sarà soggetta a disponibilita e fino ad esaurimento di posti. Decide quale dei corsi ti interessa di più, il periodo di partecipazione e compila il formulario di partecipazione (www.thebdri.com/italy/resources/downloads/applicationcourses.rtf ) che dovrai spedire via email a info@thebdri.com.

Per informazione e prenotazione:

www.thebdri.com

info@thebdri.com

tel. 346 0815414

tel. 0789 183 119

¿Deseas convertirte en un verdadero experto en el estudio de los mamíferos marinos?

¿Deseas convertirte en un verdadero experto en el estudio de los mamíferos marinos?

PARTICIPA EN LOS NUEVOS CURSOS DE FORMACIÓN FRC

Aprende, paso a paso, las más avanzadas técnicas de estudio de los mamíferos marinos, y en particular en el estudio de las poblaciones de delfines, participando en los nuevos cursos de formación FRC (Field Research-oriented Courses in Marine Mammals Science) que ofrece el Instituto BDRI en la isla de Cerdeña, Italia.

Estos cursos de alto nivel académico pueden compararse, en cuanto a calidad y cantidad de contenidos, con un verdadero Master y están enfocados en la creación de figuras altamente profesionales capaces de participar al interno de un proyecto de investigación, llevar a cabo una tesis, o desarrollar tareas de investigación al interno de empresas de whale-watching.

Cada uno de los 3 cursos de formación que ofrece el BDRI es independiente del otro e incluyen diferentes temáticas que van desde la selección de los métodos de estudio, toma de datos en el campo, hasta el análisis estadístico y presentación de los datos científicos. Todo lo que se necesita es una gran pasión por la biología marina gracias a la cual durante las 72 horas de formación (9 días de curso y 1 de descanso), basadas en ejemplos y demostraciones prácticas en el mar y en el aula, se transformarán en una experiencia gratificante e inolvidable.

Los cursos de formación FRC pueden emplearse para la obtención de créditos de libre configuración, para ello los estudiantes han de informarse de los requisitos que solicita su universidad para la convalidación de los mismos antes de participar en dichos cursos.

Lo que distingue estos cursos de formación con respecto a otros, además de la temática, es el método académico, concreto y práctico, desarrollado por el BDRI en los últimos 5 años de actividad didáctica. Un método basado en la fusión de nociones teóricas, ejemplos y ejercitaciones prácticas, facilitando el grado de aprendizaje, ya sea en el mar como en el aula.

Nuestro principal objetivo es que al final del curso de formación cada uno de los estudiantes se marche satisfecho y deseando poner en práctica todos los nuevos conocimientos que habrá adquirido. De hecho, los participantes en los cursos FRC recibirán una nota tras una evaluación (en base a un examen teórico y pruebas prácticas) para demostrar así el nivel de conocimientos adquiridos y un certificado de participación. Pretendemos que, aplicando las técnicas adecuadas, puedas obtener los mejores resultados en un futuro cercano desarrollando tu propio proyecto de investigación (elaboración de una tesis, participación en un grupo de investigación, trabajo en una empresa de whale-watching, etc), aplicando los conocimientos adquiridos durante los 10 días del curso de formación.

Los cursos de formación serán impartidos por el biólogo director del BDRI (B. Díaz López) un destacado profesional en el estudio de estos animales, con más de 40 publicaciones científicas, tutor para mas de 20 Universidades europeas y americanas en el trabajo de tesis de sus estudiantes, coautor de varios libros sobre el tema, además de experto en la materia “subject matter expert” en la creación de cursos de formación para universidades de los Estados Unidos.

Cada curso cuenta con un número máximo de 6 participantes de forma que se pueda garantizar la asistencia personalizada a cada uno de ellos. Los cursos de formación generalmente se imparten en inglés, pero pueden realizarse en castellano siempre y cuando haya más de tres participantes que lo soliciten.

El coste de cada uno de los cursos de formación incluye las clases teóricas, prácticas, material didáctico, alojamiento en un apartamento del centro con otros estudiantes (cocina disponible, habitaciones dobles o sencillas), uso del material de investigación y salidas al mar a bordo de las embarcaciones. Nuestro centro ofrece descuentos especiales para estudiantes y desempleados (hasta el 25% de descuento sobre el coste total del curso). El precio de curso no incluye el viaje hasta Golfo Aranci, Cerdeña.

No hay fecha límite para la inscripción y los cursos se irán cerrando a medida que se vayan cubriendo las plazas. La inscripción se realizará vía e-mail a info@thebdri.com mediante el envío del formulario de participación que podrás descargarte en: www.thebdri.com/spain/resources/downloads/applicationcourses.rtf

Puedes consultar el contenido más detallado de cada curso de formación en el siguiente material informativo www.thebdri.com/resources/downloads/courses.pdf para así seleccionar el curso de formación que más te interesa:

FRC 1001 - Monitoring coastal bottlenose dolphin populations

FRC 1002 - Social relationships and communication in a fission-fusion society

FRC 1003 - Conservation and management of bottlenose dolphin populations

El material informativo está en inglés, al igual que la mayor parte de las publicaciones científicas, aunque si te surgen algunas preguntas no dudes en consultarnos.

El BDRI confirmará las fechas y la disponibilidad para el periodo solicitado trámite correo electrónico (email) una vez recibido el formulario.

New Field Research-oriented Courses in Marine Mammals Science – Winter & Spring Season

New Field Research-oriented Courses in Marine Mammals Science – Winter & Spring Season

The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI (www.thebdri.com), a centre for research and training in dolphins’ ecology and behaviour, is happy to announce the new 10 days-long, Field Research-oriented Courses in Marine Mammals Science (FRC).

These training courses are specifically designed for those students (undergraduate and postgraduate) seriously interested in pursuing a career in marine mammal science. Students may choose one of the three exclusive courses, listed bellow, depending on where their interests lie. Each academically FRC combines exclusive lectures, hands-on boat-based and computer exercises, assignments and tests.

The FRC are limited to 6 students to ensure individualized instruction. Students will be trained during FRC in a wide range of areas including scientific data collection, field research concepts and methodology, computer orientation, use of statistical analysis, presentation and report of findings, and much more. You might well leave a course with a simple research project to carry out in a location of your choice!!

FRC are divided in three exclusive training courses:

FRC 1001 (Date: 29^th March)
MONITORING COASTAL BOTTLENOSE DOLPHIN POPULATIONS

This FRC provides an in-depth, hands-on immersion into the field of marine mammal science and more particularly applied dolphins research. The variety of subjects approached on this FRC provides students with the tools and practical experience needed for a greater understanding of coastal bottlenose dolphin populations and their conservation, as well as deeper insight into behavioural research concepts and methodology. As a result of successful completion of this course, you will be able to select and use appropriate research methods available to characterise the status of a coastal bottlenose dolphin population.

Lecture Topics Include: Biology, Anatomy & Physiology of Bottlenose dolphins, Sighting methods (boat-based surveys, line transect surveys, land-based surveys), Mark-recapture methods (photo-identification), Bioacoustic methods, Behavioural sampling and records (states vs events), Conservation of bottlenose dolphins, Stranded cetaceans, BDRI’s Current Research, Statistical analysis, computer orientation (use of GIS, fin-recognition software packages, sounds analysis software, and databases), guidelines for creating scientific posters and presentations

FRC 1002 (Dates: 12^th April; 17^th May)
SOCIAL RELATIONSHIPS AND COMMUNICATION IN A FISSION-FUSION SOCIETY

This advanced FRC aims to provide specialization in behavioural methods, focusing in particular on bottlenose dolphin social behaviour and communication, achieving an integrated approach to the understanding of the behavioural complexity of this species. By the end of the course, students will be able to design a project to assess the social organization of a bottlenose dolphin population. In addition, course attendants will get experience in using bioacoustical methods via computer practical sessions involving classification and analyses of bottlenose dolphin vocalizations.
Lecture Topics Include: Review of bottlenose dolphin field studies, Anatomy & Physiology, Life history & Reproduction, Population dynamics, Closed Mark-recapture methods, Photo-identification, Association patterns, Hinde's framework, Bioacoustic methods, Vocal production & repertoire, Whistle acoustic features, Signature whistles, BDRI’s Current Research, Statistical analysis, computer orientation (use of fin-recognition software packages, SOCPROG, Spectograms and databases)

FRC 1003 (Dates: 1^st March; 3^rd May)
CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT OF BOTTLENOSE DOLPHIN POPULATIONS

This advanced FRC surveys an extensive amount of knowledge and ongoing investigations concerning marine mammals conservation, achieving an integrated approach to address human-dolphin conflicts and advice on mitigation. As a result of successful completion of this specialization course, attendants will gain a deeper insight into the various factors influencing the incidental capture of bottlenose dolphins, use of ecosystem-level models to predict the impact of human activities and explain the importance of local, national, and international policies that aim to protect bottlenose dolphin populations.

Lecture Topics Include: Biology and Conservation of Bottlenose dolphins, Ecological Modelling, Threats to cetaceans, Overview of methods used to quantify by-catch and damage, Aquaculture industry, Gill-net fisheries & Trawlers, Mark-recapture methods, Foraging behaviour (Predation & Depredation), Incidental captures & By-catch, Boat traffic & Acoustic disturbance, Stranded cetaceans, Anti-predator nets, Acoustic deterrent & harassment devices, BDRI’s Current Research, Statistical analysis (univariate and multivariate), computer orientation (use of Ecopath, sonograms and databases)

BDRI has developed a financial aid to support students and unemployment people, covering approximately between 10% (spring-summer season) and 25% (fall-winter season) of the FRC Tuition & Program fee. Comfortable housing (private and double rooms), with shared cooking and bathroom facilities are provided.

There is no deadline to apply. However, applications are accepted on a first-come, first serve basis. Positions are open until filled.

APPLY NOW!

Step 1. Read through this general information carefully (www.thebdri.com/resources/downloads/courses.pdf ), decide what course/s you want to study, take note of any dates that may be preferred.

Step 2. Once you have decided which course/s you would like to study, it's now time to submit your application (www.thebdri.com/resources/downloads/applicationcourses.rtf) by email to info@thebdri.com.

Please if you have any question do not hesitate to ask to us!!

email: info@thebdri.com
telephone: 00 39 346 0815414

Season's Greetings, Buone Feste, Felices fiestas

Season's Greetings and Best wishes for 2010 from all the team at BDRI

Tanti Auguri di Buone Feste e Felice Anno 2010 da parte di tutti i membri del BDRI

Felices Fiestas y Próspero Año Nuevo 2010 de parte de todos los miembros del BDRI

If the results of our research to date are any indication, then next year’s project should be very productive, both in terms of our own enlightenment about the complex biology, behaviours and social system of these free-ranging dolphins and in producing information bearing directly on the conservation of this dolphin species and others.

More information about our New 2010 Projects

Più informazione sulle nostre nuove attività per il 2010

Más información sobre nuestras nuevas actividades para el 2010

Swim with us on:

BOTTLENOSE DOLPHIN RESEARCH INSTITUTE - BDRI Via Diaz 4, Golfo Aranci 07020 - Italy www.thebdri.com info@thebdri..com

Stage e tirocinio studiando i delfini - 2010

L'Istituto di ricerca BDRI (www.thebdri.com) offre a giovani biologi, naturalisti ed amanti della natura di realizzare esperienze che oltre a far conoscere il comportamento, communicazione e vita sociale dei delfini facilitano un trasferimento di conoscenze da parte di esperti e ricercatori ad un più largo pubblico.

È iniziata la selezione di tirocinanti e studenti di tesi per il periodo Febbraio-Aprile 2010. Non sono richieste precedenti esperienze sul campo della ricerca in biologia marina, ma sono necessari: interesse, entusiasmo e capacità di adattamento. Nel nostro istituto consideriamo che imparare, nel migliore dei modi, è quando uno riceve l'informazione di forma attiva, tramite prattica e teoria, partecipando come un membro attivo del gruppo di ricerca nel lavoro giornaliero.

La ricerca di campo viene svolta attraverso un approccio interdisciplinare e l’impiego di metodologie di ricerca innovative, intesi a delineare i vari aspetti della distribuzione e comportamento dei delfini costieri. Nella sede in Sardegna si parla inglese, italiano e spagnolo.

I nostri stage possono essere scelti per motivi academici ed ottenere crediti universitari, in questo caso gli studenti devono informarsi prima del tirocinio di tutte le procedure a seguire per ottenere i crediti nelle loro Università. Vorremo sottolinerare che questi stage rappresentano un'attività di formazione e non una offerta turistica ne di volontariato.

Ulteriore informazione: Internships 2010

http://www.thebdri.com/resources/downloads/internships.pdf

Dolphin internships 2010

Hi everyone,

on behalf of the Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI (www.thebdri.com), I am pleased to announce that our centre is currently accepting internships applications for the Winter-Spring term (a minimum of 60 days of participation between February - June) in Sardinia Island, Italy.

BDRI's researchers are engaged in the conduction of a long term study about the ecology and behaviour of wild unrestrained bottlenose dolphins and the potential effects of human activities (fisheries, aquaculture and tourism) in their distribution and behaviour. An internship period with the BDRI offers an invaluable exposure to boat based field work,marine mammals research, intensive training and mentoring in marine biology. Undergraduate and postgraduate students could present their BDRI's personal research project as their Thesis if requested with the application.

Internships can be used for academic or vocational purposes, but students are solely responsible for making all arrangements for receiving relevant credit(s) as a result of completing the internship.

Interns can expect to participate in and learn a variety of facets of marine mammal research as research assistants in three diverse research projects:

1. Mediterranean bottlenose dolphins societies project: We will take and analyse identification photos, study group structure and composition to refine details of dolphin societies and responses to human activities at sea. Volunteers assist with data collection onboard helping to locate, photograph and keep track of bottlenose dolphin groups. Back at the lab volunteers restock field supplies, analyse photos and transcribe data collected.

2. Mediterranean bottlenose dolphin's repertorie and communication use: Knowledge of how individuals within a population communicate and what they are communicating can generate information ranging from measures of habitat use, social relevance, geographical variation, cultural transmission to genetic fitness that can be applied to conservation. Bottlenose dolphins are extremely vocal mammalian species and vocal communication plays an important role in mediating social interactions. Although many vocalizations have been before described in the literature, their association with specific behaviours linked with human activities provides additional contextual information about their potential use as communication signals.

3. Human activities & Dolphins: how to use ecosystem models to address the impacts caused by the interactions. An ecosystem modelling approach becomes an interesting tool to examine the impact of fisheries and aquaculture on bottlenose dolphins and vice versa. Within the many types of software available, Ecopath with Ecosim (EwE) is a reliable and convenient tool to examine the long-term responses of bottlenose dolphins to human induced changes in system energy flow and biomass. Mass-balance models are built to characterize the role of dolphins in a coastal ecosystem conditioned by human activities.

There is no compensation for these internship positions and successful applicants will be responsible for their own transportation expenses to and from the research camp (Sardinia, Italy).

There is no deadline to apply. However, approved applications are accepted on a first-come, first serve basis. Apply early! Start and end dates are flexible. Positions are open until filled. Successful candidates will be ready and willing to learn, self-motivated, and flexible. Prior field research experience is recommended but not required.

Please download the internships general information at:

www.thebdri.com/resources/downloads/internships.pdf

and the application from:

www.thebdri.com/resources/downloads/applicationinternships.rtf

Pasantias para el estudio de los delfines mulares en el Mar Mediterráneo

Pasantías para el estudio de los delfines mulares en el Mar Medwwwiterráneo.

El Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI (www.thebdri.com) abre el plazo de

inscripción para las nuevas pasantías "Año 2010" participando como asistente en el trabajo de investigación y estudio del comportamiento y ecología de los delfines mulares en la isla de Cerdeña, Italia.

El BDRI ofrece la posibilidad de realizar tesis, maestrias, prácticas de empresa y pasantías de larga duración (mínimo 60 días) trabajando mano a mano con nuestros investigadores. Una oportunidad abierta principalmente a estudiantes universitarios y recién licenciados. Las pasantías pueden ser utilizadas para la obtención de créditos académicos de libre configuración, prácticas de empresa, tesina, maestria o DEA etc. en este caso los estudiantes han de encargarse de llevar a cabo todos los requisitos que su universidad solicite para la obtención de los mismos previa la participación a dicha estancia . De igual forma sugerimos a nuestros estudiantes la solicitud de becas como Erasmus o Leonardo ya que el centro no puede cubrir en su totalidad los gastos derivados de la estancia de los estudiantes.

Para obtener más información acerca de nuestras pasantías podrás descargarte el material informativo desde:

www.thebdri.com/resources/downloads/internships.pdf

Más información y reservas en:

www.thebdri.com

info@thebdri.com

Últimas publicaciones científicas del BDRI:

1. Diaz Lopez B. & Shirai, J.A.B., 2009. Mediterranean common bottlenose dolphin's repertoire and communication use. In: Dolphins: Anatomy, Behavior, and Threats, A.G. Pierce, L. Collado (Eds.), Nova Science Publishers, New York.

2. Diaz Lopez B., 2009. The bottlenose dolphin Tursiops truncatus foraging around a fish farm: Effects of prey abundance on dolphins' behaviour. Current Zoology (Acta Zoologica Sinica) 55(4):243-248.

3. Diaz Lopez B., Bunke, M. and Shirai, J.A., 2008. Marine aquaculture off Sardinia Island (Italy): ecosystem effects evaluated through a trophic mass-balance model. Ecological Modelling 212: 292-303.

4. Diaz Lopez, B., Shirai, J.A.; Bilbao Prieto, A. & M?ndez Fern?ndez, P., 2008. Diving activity of a solitary wild free ranging bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus). Journal of Marine Biological Association U.K. 88(6): 1153-1157.

5. Diaz Lopez B. and Shirai, J.A., 2008. Marine aquaculture and bottlenose dolphins social structure. Behavioural Ecology and Sociobiology 62(6): 887-894.