US Ocean Conservation Fellow - Cortes Bank

About the Organization

WILDCOAST, founded in 2000, is an international team that conserves coastal and marine ecosystems and addresses climate change through natural solutions. To achieve our mission we establish and manage protected areas, protect and restore blue carbon ecosystems, and partner with local communities, governments, and the private sector. WILDCOAST is currently helping to conserve and rewild threatened coastal and marine ecosystems in Mexico and California with natural climate solutions.

https://wildcoast.org

Fellowship Description:

Cortes Bank is a significant offshore seamount located approximately 100 miles west of San Diego, California. This unique underwater feature rises from the deep ocean, creating diverse and productive habitats that support a remarkable array of marine life, including vibrant kelp forests, diverse invertebrate communities, and numerous fish and marine mammal species.

Recognizing its ecological importance, WILDCOAST is actively exploring conservation opportunities to ensure the long-term health and resilience of Cortes Bank.

As the US Ocean Conservation Fellow focused on Cortes Bank, you will play a crucial role in developing a comprehensive understanding of the threats and opportunities associated with its conservation.

Your primary responsibilities will include:
*Conducting thorough research to identify current and potential threats to the biodiversity and ecological integrity of Cortes Bank. These threats may include fishing pressure, shipping traffic, pollution, climate change impacts, and other human activities.
*Identifying organizations, agencies, and initiatives currently working in or focused on the Cortes Bank region. This will involve researching their mandates, activities, and conservation objectives.
*Analyzing the existing conservation landscape to identify any gaps in protection or areas where WILDCOAST could make a significant contribution.
*Exploring potential conservation strategies and opportunities for WILDCOAST to engage in the protection of Cortes Bank. This could involve researching different management approaches, potential partnerships, and funding avenues.
*Synthesizing your findings into a comprehensive report outlining the threats, existing efforts, and potential opportunities for WILDCOAST's involvement in the conservation of Cortes Bank.

This internship offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the early stages of a significant conservation initiative and gain valuable experience in marine conservation strategy development and research.

Qualifications:

*Currently enrolled in or a graduate of a Bachelor's or advanced degree program in marine science, environmental policy, conservation biology, natural resource management, or a related field.
*A strong understanding of marine ecosystems and conservation principles.
*Excellent research and analytical skills, with the ability to gather information from diverse sources and synthesize complex information.
*Strong written communication skills, with the ability to produce clear, concise, and well-organized reports.
*Familiarity with marine conservation issues and policy frameworks.
*An interest in offshore ecosystems and the challenges of their conservation.
*Ability to work independently and proactively in a virtual setting.
*Experience with literature reviews, online databases, and stakeholder analysis is a plus.

Time Commitment: 10-20 hours / week