Acoustics and Visual Surveys of Cook Inlet Beluga Whales in Lower Cook Inlet Rivers
Lead Researcher: Sonia Kumar, University of Alaska Fairbanks
Internship Description
The intern would assist a Master's student, Sonia Kumar, with field work in lower Cook Inlet between May and the end of September. The intern will assist with shore-based visual surveys of Cook Inlet beluga whales in the Kenai and Kasilof rivers throughout the duration of the internship. Depending on the timeline of the internship, the intern might also assist with the deployment and maintenance of passive acoustic monitors at each of the rivers. The intern will assist Ms. Kumar with disseminating information to passersby who are curious about their work and the conservation of critically endangered Cook Inlet belugas. As time allows, Ms. Kumar will train the intern to validate the acoustic data and begin the data analysis process.
Nature of the Research Project
Applied Research, Basic Research, Field ResearchStudent Learning Outcomes
Be able to explain biological concepts; data; and methods including their limitations using language understandable by collaborators in other disciplines.Execute protocols and accurately record measurements and observations.
Make evidence-based arguments using your own and others' findings.
Suggest how collaborators in STEM & non-STEM disciplines could contribute to solutions of real-world problems.
Use appropriate language and style to communicate science effectively to targeted audiences (e.g. general public; biology experts; collaborators in other disciplines)
Research Location
Kenai and Kasilof Rivers.
Remote Option? no
Preferred Timing
Start Date: 2021-05-01
End Date: 2021-09-30