PRR Project

Summary

This permanent position proposes to contribute significantly to the institute through a multifaceted role focused on advancing research, leadership, and mentorship. The primary tasks will encompass: Research Excellence: Conducting cutting-edge research in the field of Fisheries Resource Evaluation, with a focus on fishing experiments both at sea and in the laboratory. This includes focus on “hot topics” such as fish welfare in fisheries   to better understand the impact of several coastal fisheries in some fish species´s welfare  to identify the potential to mitigate fish suffering and consequently improve product quality. conservation of marine megafauna (cetaceans, turtles, and seabirds) and their interaction with fisheries. Leadership and Project Management: Assuming a leadership role in coordinating and projects related to fisheries, marine ecology, and conservation of marine PETS (Protected, Endangered, and Threatened Species). Mentorship and Training: A continued commitment to mentorship, aiming to supervise and guide both junior and senior researchers, contributing to their academic and professional development. Additionally, extend the role coordinating the Regional Cetacean and Marine Turtle Stranding Network of Algarve (RAAlg), training biologists and technicians on necropsies, sample preservation, and stomach content analysis. Scientific Profile: The ideal candidate for this position should possess a Ph.D. in Fisheries Resource Evaluation or a related field, with demonstrated expertise in marine/fisheries biology. Key attributes include: Publication Record: A strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals, with a focus on fisheries, marine ecology, and conservation of marine (Protected, Endangered and Threatened Species (PETS). Research Experience: Proven experience in leading and participating in fishing experiments, bycatch risk assessment, and mitigation trials. Expertise in evaluating survivorship of discards and assessing marine megafauna interactions with fisheries. Leadership Skills: Previous experience in leadership, serving as a Principal Investigator, and coordinating tasks and projects in the specified scientific areas. National engagement: Close ties with non-governmental national entities (SCIAENA, SPEA, Pong-Pesca, WWF-Portugal) and governmental bodies (IPMA, DGRM, ICNF), as well as significant business sectors such as maritime tourism and fisheries. International Engagement: Active participation in international scientific groups and forums, such as the ICES (International Council for the Exploration of the Sea), ASCOBANS (Agreement on the Conservation of Small Cetaceans of the Baltic, North East Atlantic, Irish and North Seas), ACCOBAMS (Agreement on the Conservation of Cetaceans of the Black Sea, Mediterranean Sea and contiguous Atlantic Area) and CIESM (The Mediterranean Science Commission) showcasing a commitment to collaborative research contributing to CCMAR´s research line, providing the scientific basis for improving the management and conservation of biodiversity and marine resources, enhancing ocean governance and integrated coastal management. Rationale: This permanent position is vital due to the unique combination of extensive research experience, leadership skills, and commitment to marine conservation. The candidate´s has to have an established international network, demonstrated by invitations to participate in global forums, enhancing the institute´s visibility and collaborative opportunities. Successful projects, particularly in fish welfare, the stranding network, and marine PETS bycatch, highlights the candidate´s effectiveness in both research and community engagement. This combination of skills and achievements positions the candidate as a valuable asset to further advance the institute´s impact in the specified scientific areas.As an integral part of CCMAR, the institute has been actively engaged in pioneering fisheries research. The establishment of a critical link between marine megafauna and fisheries represents a significant milestone in our initiatives. This groundbreaking work has not only enhanced our institute´s visibility but has also played a crucial role in shaping our national and international standing. Through dedicated efforts, various projects focusing on fish welfare, marine megafauna bycatch, and the establishment of the Regional Cetacean and Marine Turtle Stranding Network of Algarve have been successfully led.The proposed permanent position in this scientific area is vital for the institute as it recognizes the ongoing contributions made in these crucial fields. It provides the necessary stability for CCMAR to maintain its leadership role and continue making substantial advancements in marine conservation. This position is an opportunity to further strengthen our commitment to cutting-edge research and ensure a lasting impact on the intersection of marine megafauna and fisheries within CCMAR.