The not-for-profit organization Balyena.org is looking for a research-assistant for the upcoming humpback whale field season in the remote Babuyan Islands off the northern tip of Luzon, Philippines from March-April, 2012. The aim of this research is to monitor the status of humpback whales in the islands through photo-identification and vocalization recordings. The Babuyan Islands are the only known humpback whale breeding area in the Philippines. Since 2000, over 150 whales have been identified and individuals have been matched to whales from feeding grounds in Russia and breeding grounds in Japan. Surveys for humpbacks are conducted from a local outrigger boat (bangka) based from the island of Camiguin, a four-hour ferry ride from mainland Luzon. Other cetacean species regularly recorded include spotted dolphins, Fraser’s dolphins, spinner dolphins, rough-toothed dolphins, melon-headed whales, and pygmy killer whales. When weather prevents surveys, educational presentations are made in the local elementary and high schools. Room and board will be provided while in the field, but assistants will be responsible for travel to and from the Philippines as well as any visa fees. Transportation to and from Manila will be arranged (costs around $30 US each way). Assistants will share a living space with 4-6 other individuals and cooking duties are shared. Note Camiguin is very remote and does not have all amenities. Internet is sparse and electricity is only available from 6-10 pm. The island can be cut off from the mainland due to weather, so it is important for assistants to be flexible in their travel dates. We prefer assistants to commit to the full field season, but will consider shorter terms (minimum 3 weeks). We are ideally looking for an individual with previous marine mammal experience, although all qualified applicants will be considered. Qualifications include: • Comfortable on boats even in inclement weather • Ability to work well with a small group in a remote location • Strong work ethic (days on the boat can be very long) • Experience with photo-identification of cetaceans • Bachelor’s degree in biology or related field desired (not required) Interested applicants should send a cover letter and resume with references to joshsilberg@gmail.com by Nov. 15th. Josh Silberg Volunteer Coordinator Balyena.org