The WESPAS 2025 survey continues a long-term time series contributing to the assessment of herring and boarfish stocks in ICES areas VIIB and VIA. Led by Mr. Ciaran O’Donnell, an experienced team of Marine Institute biologists will conduct acoustic transects for echo traces of herring, boarfish, and other pelagic species. Survey data collection will also extend to plankton, oceanography, marine mammals and seabirds.
WESPAS Bursaries for Students
WESPAS bursaries offer an excellent opportunity for graduates and postgraduate students to develop field skills in fisheries acoustics, biometric sampling, and plankton sampling. These bursaries provide hands-on experience and training, essential for anyone pursuing a career in marine sciences.
Marine Institute Acoustic Surveys Programme
Explore the Marine Institute’s extensive acoustic survey programs HERE.
To access the 2023 WESPAS Survey Report, click HERE.
For a comprehensive collection of Marine Institute Survey Reports, visit the Marine Institute Open Access Repository.
Survey Dates
The WESPAS 2025 Survey will take place over two legs:
- Leg 1: June (exact dates TBC)
- Leg 2: July (exact dates TBC)
Who Can Apply?
Applications are invited from graduate and postgraduate students from Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) across Ireland, the UK, and the EU.
Eligibility Requirements
To join the surveys applicants must hold the following certificates:
- ENG 11
- PST STCW 95
- STCW Proficiency in Security Awareness
For guidance on obtaining the required seafarer’s certificates click HERE.
How to Apply
Applications should be submitted online HERE.
Applications must be supported by:
- A Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- A letter of support from an academic or professional supervisor
CVs and letters of support should be mailed to John.Boyd@atu.ie.
For help with applications click HERE.
Closing Date
The closing date for applications is Friday, May 2, 2025.
Survey Data and Intellectual Property
All data collected during the survey are the intellectual property of the survey organizers. Participants must comply with the data privacy and protection protocols as outlined by the Chief Scientist.
Further Information
For more information email John.Boyd@atu.ie.