Postgraduate internship in Mediterranean
monk seal research
We are looking for enthusiastic, motivated people with
an interest in marine research and conservation to join
us as interns for a 8 - 12 week period during September
- November 2009. Interns will assist the scientific officers
of the National Marine Park of Alonnisos Northern Sporades
in the implementation of the Mediterranean monk seal monitoring
programme.
The marine park is considered one of the most important
habitats of the monk seal (Monachus monachus), a species
which is listed as one of the six most threatened mammals
in the world.
Please read carefully the details below, about the work
you will be required to carry out:
1. Research programme
Monitoring activities throughout the wider marine park
area are carried out by the scientific team of the N.M.P.A.N.S.
Management Body mainly to assess the status of the monk
seal habitats and population.
Monk seal monitoring is carried out with the Parks research
boats, a 10m motor cruiser and a 4m inflatable boat and
the study method involves visits to monk seal caves (mainly
during the night) and recording evidences of animal presence
(tracks, faeces, presence of the seal etc).
Interns must be prepared to become members of the patrol
boats crew, assisting in the boats operation (rope handling,
rowing etc), which means involvement of some physical
labour.
2. Field Work Requirements - Conditions
Interns stay onboard the research boat during field work
and on days off, stay on the volunteer's house located
in Patitiri. It is absolutely necessary to bring along
warm and comfortable clothes, waterproofs etc.
Living onboard consist high risks, however interns will
not be involved in any dangerous activities.
Interns must be prepared to share a communal life, living
and working in secluded areas, often as members of small
teams and usually under harsh conditions. The ability
to live and co-operate with people of different cultures
and backgrounds is essential.
Interns are trained and supervised by the Park's scientific
officers and experienced project members. They must be
prepared to participate in every aspect of the work. Duties
are allocated by the officers and may include working
throughout the night or long hours during the day.
Additional duties include: data entry, and general office
work and equipment maintenance.
Internship applicants should have the following:
A background in biology, zoology, or related field
Some knowledge of research and design methods
An ability to work, live and communicate well with others
Enthusiasm and dedication to work long days sometimes
under harsh conditions (sometimes 12 hours or more) in
the field.
Sailing experience
Carry a health insurance policy
General Requirements Conditions
Applicants must be over 18 years of age, able to communicate
in English. Interns are selected on an individual basis
This three-month long internship programme is an unpaid
position and interns have to cover their travel and food
expenses.
We require a 8 - 12 week, 40 hour per week commitment
Applicants must be available for weekdays, weekends
and holidays, morning and evening shifts.
Physical fitness is also vital, as interns may be required
to lift up some weight and work outside in heat or cold
conditions.
National Marine Park of Alonnisos Northern Sporades,
reserves the right to end an internship at any time.
At the outcome of their stay, volunteers are requested
to submit a short report of their experience.
On arrival volunteers will be expected to sign a waiver
of liability, assumption of risk and indemnity agreement
(see
the form).
General information
The Marine Park's volunteer house is located in Patitiri,
Alonnisos and has two guestrooms, a kitchen and a bathroom
with all facilities. Sheets, towels and laundry services
are provided by the Marine Park Authority.
Volunteers are entitled 4 days off during a 15 day period
References can be provided on request
In order to formally apply, please send a profile of yourself
(CV) with a photo and a cover letter by email or direct
mail. There is no need to complete a standard application
form
Contact information:
Management Body
National Marine Park of Alonnisos Northern Sporades
37005, Alonnisos - Greece
Email: info@alonissos-park.gr
Tel: +(30) 24240 66378/66388/66419
Fax: +(30) 24240 66376
