Common dolphin research

Volunteers are needed to assist with fieldwork for a PhD study investigating the distribution and density of common dolphins (Delphinus sp.) in the Hauraki Gulf, New Zealand. This PhD project is part of the ongoing research of the New Zealand Common Dolphin Project (NZCDP) and the Coastal-Marine Research Group (C-MRG) at Massey University Albany, Auckland.

The field season runs year round and the next vacancy is from mid-March 2012. A minimum commitment of one month is required and priority will be given to those who can commit for longer periods. As this is the final year of fieldwork for this project, volunteers are not required after December 2012.

The primary role of the volunteer is to assist on a 5.5m research vessel, which operates in the Hauraki Gulf, North Island. Surveys in the Inner Hauraki Gulf involve daily return trips to Gulf Harbour Marina on the Whangaparaoa Peninsula and research trips of 3+ days away at Great Barrier Island are made once per month. Surveys are undertaken when weather and sea conditions are favourable and as such, a minimum or maximum number of research days per week cannot be guaranteed. On adverse weather days volunteers assist with data entry and other tasks.

Prior experience working on small research vessels is preferred but not essential. Those with no experience should demonstrate their willingness to learn. Volunteers must be comfortable spending long days at sea on a small open boat.

Unfortunately this is not a paid position. Food and accommodation are not provided and volunteers are responsible for their own travel to Auckland. Assistance will be provided to find suitable accommodation in the area.

For more detailed information about the project email Sarah Dwyer.