Bolsa de Investigação: ARDITI-OOM/2016/010

Job summary:

Research Grant (BI) for Biology, Assessment and management of littoral fishery resources

Job description:

The study of the basic biology, distribution, population dynamics and stock assessment of the gastropod molluscs, exploited in the Archipelago of Madeira, it is the basis for the management of its fishery in order to achieve a sustainable exploitation based in the maximum sustainable yield, as it is established under the framework of the Common Fisheries Policy. In the scope of this study we are looking for a biologist (Master level) with expertise in population dynamics and stock assessment of littoral resources. The successful candidate will join an interdisciplinary team and will lead the transition from actual yield per recruit models used to assess this resource in the Madeira Archipelago to a broader approach using production and analytical models to estimate MSY and FMSY of the two exploited species of limpets (Patella aspera and P. candei) and make a first study of the basic biology, distribution and abundance of sea snails (Phorcus sauciatus) in the archipelago. An analysis of a time series of landings and fishing effort, based in data available from the DRP databases (sales notes inquiries and logbooks) will also be used to analyse standardized series of landings-per-unit-effort using Generalized Linear Models (GLM). This study will be accomplished in the framework of project (M1420-01-0145-FEDER-000001-Observatório Oceânico da Madeira-OOM).

Responsibilities include:

• Perform field collection of samples and biological sampling in the laboratory;
• Coordinate prospective surveys to estimate relative abundances along the coasts of Madeira, Desertas and Porto Santo;
• Coordinate depletion surveys made by experienced scuba divers;
• Identify nursery areas along the coasts of the islands;
• Collect environmental data during field work;
• Complete a comprehensive study of life history patterns and use production and analytical models in the stock assessment of the resources;
• Set the management basis for the sustainable exploitation of resources and fishing practices aimed at the implementation of systems like the certification of the fisheries and protected geographical indication.

• Demonstrate experience in studies of fishery resources. Hands-on experience in littoral resources (e.g. limpets and sea snails;
• Knowledge of population dynamics methods to estimate biological parameters;
• Experience working with assessment models;
• Experience in field work (participation in experimental fishing surveys);
• Prior publications in international peer reviewed journals in these domains;
• Some experience in the use of of the R software environment for statistical analysis;
• Strong communication and collaboration skills;
• Demonstrated strong ability to work independently in a self-directed environment.

• Perform literature review and analyze historical data related to biology and ecology of littoral resources (e.g. limpets and snail).
• Coordinate field work related to the collection of biological samples and prospective and depletion surveys
• Participate in the estimation of biological parameters, assessment and management methodologies & provide technical report.
• Coordinate the preparation of 2-3 papers to submit to peer reviewed international journals.