Whale research postdoc in NZ

[A. Murray]

The Pathology and Pathophysiology of Stranded Cetaceans in New Zealand

MURF Postdoctoral Fellowship Available for Cetacean Pathologist

January 1997 to December 1998
$42,500 per annum

Closing date for applications : 30 October 1996

Department of Veterinary Pathology and Public Health
Faculty of Veterinary Science
Massey University
Palmerston North
NEW ZEALAND

Massey University Cetacean Investigation Centre is committed to the
investigation of the biology, biophysics and pathophysiology of 
cetaceans. An exciting post has been made possible by the support of the 
Massey University Research Fund. The aim of the project is to carry out 
detailed pathological examination of stranded cetaceans with ancillary 
tests to establish the health status and possible reasons for strandings 
in New Zealand waters. The Department of Conservation is collaborating 
with the Faculty of Veterinary Science by providing stranded cetaceans 
for full post mortem examination. Where carcasses cannot be transported, 
field examination will be undertaken.

The successful applicant will be expected to undertake cetacean 
necropsies and will be supported by clinical pathology, microbiology, 
virology, parasitology and molecular biology laboratories. The 
laboratories are well-equipped for conducting a full range of analytical 
and investigative techniques. The Department has 14 academic staff and 
14 technical assistants. The Department interacts collaboratively with 
the university Departments of Physiology and Anatomy, Ecology and 
Physics as well as other universities and research institutes both 
nationally and internationally.

Within the Departments of Veterinary Pathology and Public Health, 
Physiology and Anatomy,  and Physics, other cetacean research is 
ongoing.  Since 1992, studies have been carried out on humane slaughter 
techniques and use of the electric lance in whales. At present this work 
is developing to involve magnetic resonance and impedance imaging and in 
addition there are studies of the anatomy of the head and eye of 
cetaceans and digestive tract of seals.

Applicants should have a PhD, preferably in Veterinary Science, and
experience in diagnostic pathology. Previous work with marine mammals 
would be an advantage, however the ability to organise and coordinate, 
work with a team and collaborate with those in the field and other 
research institutes is considered to be especially important.

Applications should arrive no later than 30 October 1996. Further
details and an application form are available from:

Ms L Hensman
(MURF Cetacean Postdoc)
Human Resources Section
Massey University
Private Bag 11222
Palmerston North, New Zealand

For further information on the project in the first instance please 
contact
Jane Hunter, project coordinator.

Dr J E B Hunter
Senior Lecturer
Dept Veterinary Pathology and Public Health
Massey University
Privat Bag 11222
Palmerston North
New Zealand

Tel 06 356 9099 ext. 7894/7995
Fax 06 350 5636
Email J.E.B.Hunter at massey.ac.nz