GIS and Remote-Sensing

Background: Geo-information is a key tool in providing answers to complex issues concerning the conservation of our environment, as spatial analysis provides a better understanding of habitats and species.

Description: In order to achieve effective environmental preservation in the Eastern Aegean Islands, habitats (e.g. seagrass, coralligenous reefs, wetlands), species (e.g. dolphins, whales, fish, seals, jackals, chameleons, flora) and threats need to be mapped and analysed in more detail. Through marine and terrestrial surveys, Archipelagos GIS interns collect various spatial data which is then assessed with the purpose of presenting distribution models (e.g. vulnerability, species, habitats). Current and future GIS projects include:

• Mapping of Posidonia seagrass meadows through satellite images
• Mapping of Posidonia seagrass meadows through kayak-based and boat-based surveys, using sonar or multibeam
• Mapping of Coralligenous reefs through boat surveys using multibeam
• Creating various species and habitat distribution models with presence/absence and environmental data (marine and terrestrial)
• Vulnerability assessments of terrestrial and/or marine habitats and species
• Exploring and developing new technologies in the Copernicus program with Sentinel-2 and 3 satellites for terrestrial and marine observation (e.g. detecting marine litter gyres in the ocean, monitoring daily environmental conditions on species presence, detecting land change etc.)

Applicant profile:

• At least one year of college or university studies in the fields of marine, environmental, geographical and/or related sciences 
• Proven experience in ESRI ArcGIS software package or other geoanalytic software (QGIS, SAGA, GRASS)
• Proven experience with remote sensing software packages (e.g. SNAP, ErDAS, ENVI, BEAM, eCognition), in case of interest for satellite image analysis
• Ability to write scientific reports and papers
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills
• High standard of work 
• Fluency in English
• Ability to work both individually and as part of a dynamic, multi-cultural team
• Sincere desire to work towards Archipelagos’ conservation efforts 
• Motivation to live in a small island community

Duration:

A minimum duration of 3 months is highly recommended for all participants, although shorter placements can be tailored to the needs of groups and individuals. Placements can last as long as 12 months.

Start date: September 3rd, 2018 and onwards

Location:

Archipelagos’ research bases and stations in the eastern Aegean Sea, on the islands of Samos, Lipsi, Ikaria, Leros, Arki, Marathi and Oinousses. Placements may also include working on board of one of our research boats.

Placement fee:

Monthly fees of 650 euro include:
Living expenses (shared accommodation, all meals, wi-fi)
Use of equipment & research boats
Transport for working purposes
Greek language lessons

Students and recent graduates are advised to explore possible funding through their universities, by getting in touch with the Finance / International Relations / Placement/ Erasmus+ Offices at their Universities or other relevant grant providing organizations in their region.

*Travelling costs are NOT included and are covered by the participant.

Application details:

Please submit CV and covering letter to admissions@archipelago.gr