ANT2026-01A Ross Sea Shelf survey 2026/27 and 2027/28

Description

The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) is seeking a research provider to conduct the annual Ross Sea Shelf Survey for both 2026/27 and 2027/28. The primary objective of this project is to conduct the Ross Sea shelf survey annually to continue monitoring trends in Antarctic toothfish (Dissostichus mawsoni) recruitment in the southern Ross Sea. The objectives of the Ross Sea shelf survey are to: (i) continue monitoring trends in Antarctic toothfish (Dissostichus mawsoni) recruitment in the southern Ross Sea (core strata A–C); (ii) continue monitoring trends in abundance of larger (large sub-adult and adult) toothfish and biological characteristics in two areas of importance to predators: McMurdo Sound and Terra Nova Bay in alternate years; and (iii) collect and analyse a wide range of data and samples from these areas (e.g., demersal fish, benthic invertebrates, stomach and tissue samples, acoustic data), which will contribute to the Research and Monitoring Plan for the Ross Sea region MPA. This project will include a field work aspect with the successful candidate required to be on a fishing industry vessel for approximately 4 weeks following the Ross Sea commercial fishery (from mid-late January) in both 2026/27 and 2027/28 seasons. Note that this may require travel to Scott Base in advance of this date, dependent on timing of flights to Antarctica, or the fishing vessel may return to a New Zealand port to reprovision prior to undertaking the survey.