Erasmus MundusMaster of science in

Marine Biodiversity and Conservation

EMBC

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Table of content: What is EMBC?.......................................................................pag. 3 Why Marine Biodiversity and conservation?...........pag. 4 A unique programme… ……………………………………..pag. 6 Bonjour, Hola, Oi, Hallo, Labas, … ?...............................pag. 8 Student mobility is an integrated part of the EMBC master……………………………………………………………pag. 10 Practical Information………………………………………pag. 12 Financial Information……………………………………...pag. 14 Ghent University……………………………………………..pag. 21 University of Bremen………………………………………pag. 38 University of the Algarve…………………………………pag. 50 University of Oviedo………………………………………..pag. 61 University of Klaipeda…………………………………….pag. 75 University Pierre et Marie Curie – Paris 006…….pag. 86

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What is EMBC? The Erasmus Mundus Master of Science in Marine Biodiversity and Conservation (EMBC) is a master program offered by a University consortium consisting of 6 European partners. First Master Year: Ghent University (Belgium), University of Bremen (Germany), University of the Algarve (Portugal) Second Master Year: University Pierre et Marie Curie - Paris 006 (France), University of Oviedo (Spain), University of Klaipèda (Lithuania)

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Why Marine Biodiversity and Conservation? The marine environment is a precious asset. Oceans and seas provide 99% of the available living space on the planet, cover 71% of the Earth’s surface and contain 90% of the biosphere and consequently a large share of global biological diversity. Marine ecosystems play a key role in climate and weather processes. Indispensable to life itself, the marine environment is also a great contributor to economic prosperity, social well-being and quality of life. However, the marine environment is facing a number of threats including loss or degradation of its biodiversity and changes in its structure, loss of habitats, contamination by dangerous substances and nutrients and impacts of climate change.

We need to have well trained people who are able to evaluate, understand and investigate the state of the marine environment, and this at different levels and from different disciplines such as general oceanography, ecology, chemistry, physics, statistics, geology, social sciences, economy and aquaculture. The ERASMUS MUNDUS M. Sc. Program EMBC is strongly oriented to the fundamental understanding of the structure and function of marine biodiversity, the acquisition of several kinds of tools required for understanding the complexity of biodiversity patterns and processes and finally to the application of this knowledge for nature conservation and restoration.

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A Unique program… The study program is divided in 3 thematic modules and a set of specific activities such as summer schools, transferable skills and research project. The 3 thematic modules are:

(1) Understanding the structure and function of marine biodiversity deals with the fundamental aspects of Oceanography (on a multidisciplinary basis, including physics, chemistry, geology, biology, ecology, biogeography, climate change), the structure and functioning of Marine Biodiversity (from genes to habitats) and with Impact studies. Students need to take at least 24 credits from this first module.

(2) Toolbox for investigating marine biodiversity provides an advanced training in Statistics and experimental design, Modeling, Taxonomy, Data and Information Management, Field observations and interpretation and Molecular methods. Students need to take at least 20 credits from this second module. (3) Conservation and Restoration of marine biodiversity deals with the application of the above mentioned theories and methods in order to develop a sustainable use of the marine environment. Students need to take at least 10 credits from this third module.

The program is complemented with summer schools (6 ECTS) on specialized topics in European Marine Research Stations operating within the EU-Network of Excellence MarBEF (Marine Biodiversity and Ecosystem Functioning). In the summer school, all students operate together on

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several research topics during 10 days. The scientific knowledge as well as the integration process between the students and teachers is very important.

A research project (Master thesis) of 30 ECTS is presented within the field of one of the three thematic areas : ‘Understanding’, ‘Toolbox’ or ‘Conservation’. The students will have the opportunity to suggest a thesis subject or can choose from an extensive list offered by the different research institutes worldwide.

The training in transferable skills is compelled for 10 ECTS. Transferable skills are : language teaching (both academic English and local languages, writing skills, diving skills, and so on..). Optional courses (20 ECTS) can be chosen freely (also from other M.Sc. Programs).

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Bonjour, Hola, Oi, Hallo, Labas, … ?

Language diversity in Europe is seen as an added-value of studies in Europe. Students are provided with the possibility of using at least three European languages. The language of at least two host countries (survival languages), the language of instruction (English) and the language of the country where they carry out their thesis project (eventually third survival language).

Language(s) of instruction:

The language of instruction is English. EMBC students who are proficient in the local language of the ‘host’ university may elect optional courses from other Masters which can be in the local language. Languages of examinations: will be in the teaching language, English. However, many of the lecturers are multilingual and will accept assignment in more than one language. As an example, the coordinator will accept assignments in English, French, Dutch, German and Spanish. The lecturer responsible for each module will indicate which languages are acceptable. In Lithuania exams of many modules could be accepted also in Russian. A recent TOEFL Certificate: minimum score: 570 points (Paper) or 87 points (Internet) OR a recent IELTS Certificate: minimum score: 6.5 is required.

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Language learning support offered

All universities procure language courses within the EMBC curriculum. Tutoring of mixed groups for project works might be in any language mastered by the tutor, but all partners will ensure the possibility of using English for project work and project examinations.

All universities develop a course dealing with the history of the country and the city.

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Student mobility is an integrated part of the EMBC Master. Student mobility is an integral part of the Master : students start in one of the three group I Universities for 2 semesters; for the third semester, students move to one of the group II Universities.

Students will choose in the first year among three universities constituting group I : Ghent, Bremen and Algarve, which are offering in the first semester mainly the basic multidisciplinary courses. Here the resident lecturers and visiting lecturers (from group II universities: Spain, France or Klaipèda) or scholars from third-countries or from the MarBEF network, will be active. For the second semester, each of these universities organizes more specialized courses and starts with the scientific training in research projects.

The mobility of students is decided in the second half of the first year. At this time the students can make a preference list for their second year location after having learned about the advanced courses and the thesis subjects at the different locations. The consortium (by decision of the Management Board) will strive to balance the number of students between each participating institution.

The summer schools are organized each year in between semester 2 and 3. Summer schools will be the moment of maximal integration of students and scholars. In the third semester, each student MUST move and has the choice to go to one of the universities of group II where further specializations will take place in the three thematic modules. For the thesis work, students can chose between

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research groups of the six universities or in another marine research institute. In all cases, the promoter of the thesis is

one of the lecturers of the EMBC Program. The mobility scheme allows the students to experience at least two different ‘field’ situations in terms of marine biodiversity, ecosystems and restoration and conservation problems, a minimum requirement to obtain the EMBC Master diploma.

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Practical Information

Visa for non EU-students Once you are admitted to the EMBC program, you should start the procedures to obtain the necessary visa in your home country in the embassy/consulate of the respective European country (Belgium, Germany or Portugal). You will receive the required admission letters from the central EMBC secretariat (in Ghent) :

Official admission letter signed by the coordinator, stating in which university you will start

A copy of the insurance contract In case you are a scholarship student: an extract from

the admission document from the EU listing all students that were selected for both main and reserve list.

In case additional documents are needed, they can be provided by the EMBC secretariat.

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You will also need a second visa when you move to the second host country in Europe (Spain, France or Lithuania). Again you will receive the required documents to obtain this visa and facilitate the procedure. ! So don’t forget to make a copy of all your official documents you obtain in your home country; you will need them to enter other European countries! There are several types of visas issued by embassies of European countries: type C, type D and type C+D. You are advised to request a Type D shengen VISA, allowing you to study in Europe. Once in Europe you will need a residence permit. You have to apply separately for a residence permit in every country of your study. Non - EU nationals who are holders of a residence permit of a Schengen state may freely enter into and stay in any other Schengen state for a period of up to three months. Note, that for a longer stay, you require a residence permit of the target member state (keep it mind when you look for an internship and agree on its duration) Before you can apply for a visa (whether for your next study destination or for vacation) for country 1 in country 2, you must have the residence permit of country 1. For more information about travel rights and regulations of third countries nationals, please see: http://ec.europa.eu/. For EU – students there is no VISA required.

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Financial Information

Tuition fees (& eventual reductions)

The yearly tuition fee is 7.000 EUR per year for non-EU students and 3000 per year for EU students (subject to yearly revision by the EMBC Managing Board). Students with financial difficulties can request a reduction of the tuition fee, provided that the yearly actual income of the applicant is less than € 10.000 per year. The application form for this reduction can be obtained from the central EMBC secretariat. (Declaration of honor + sufficient financial attestation is required).

The reduction for non-European students is set at 2500 euro, meaning the yearly fee will be 4500 euro. The reduction for European students is set at 1000 euro, meaning that the fee will be 2000 euro.

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All EMBC students are expected to finance costs related to visa and preparatory documents, accommodation, additional insurances, living and travel themselves. All EMBC partner institutes have services for foreign students that can provide assistance in visa, accommodation, insurances and other living arrangements.

Grants

Erasmus Mundus grants for non-EU students

EMBC is one of the Master Courses selected by the prestigious Erasmus Mundus framework of the European Commission through which students from non-European Union countries are eligible for two-year grants of € 21,000 per year.

For 2009/2010, 17 Erasmus Mundus scholarship grants (EM grants) are available (applications for these grants are closed)

For 2009/2010, at least 1 EM grant extra is available in the Western Balkans Window category (students coming from Albania, Bosnia&Herzegovina, Croatia, FYROM, Kosovo, Montenegro, Serbia and Turkey) (applications for these grants are closed)

EM grants are awarded on the basis of merit by the European Commission under proposition of the EMBC board. Students from non-EU countries are defined as: nationals coming from all countries (for all countries of the world with the exception of the 27 EU Member States, Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein); who are not residents of any of the above countries; who have not carried out their main activities (studies, work, etc.) for more than a total of 12 months over

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the last five years in any of the above countries; who apply for three Erasmus Mundus Masters Courses at maximum. Erasmus Mundus Grants for EU students

From 2010 onwards, EU students can apply for an Erasmus Mundus study grant as well.

Additional study grants may be available locally for outgoing or for incoming EU-students in the EMBC Program.

The grant possibilities are updated regularly on the EMBC website.

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Living cost within Europe (approximate values):

1. EU students

Costs:

Tuition Fee : 3000 euro per year (2 semesters) Living cost: +- 650 - 700 euro per month Travel costs

Possible reductions on the costs:

Reduction on the tuition fee of 1000 euro Erasmus Mundus scholarships for two years

(covering the tuition and providing monthly scholarship for 10 months per year)

Other scholarships

2. Non-EU students Costs:

Tuition fee: 7000 euro per year (2 semesters) Living cost: +- 650 - 700 euro per month Travel costs VISA costs extra insurances

Possible reductions on the costs:

Reduction on the tuition fee of 2500 euro (see info on reductions)

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Erasmus Mundus scholarship (covering the tuition and providing monthly scholarship for 10 months per year)

other scholarships

For more information (course content, field work,..), check

our website: http://embc.marbef.org

Or contact us by email:

central secretariat: embc@ugent.be

EMBC – cohort 2008 –2010 at the Summer school in Hel (Poland)

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MarBEF Institutes (see http://www.marbef.org)

General Coordinator: Prof. Dr Carlo Heip

Executive Director: Prof. Dr Herman Hummel

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1. Introduction

“The teachers are good and the university has good infrastructure and material for study. Besides, the city of Ghent offers a fun life for students”. “Ghent is a great city with a lot of things to do. There is a lot of cultural programs, all the time!, and beautiful, interesting and historical places to know”. 1.1. The City Ghent is situated in the Flemish region of Belgium. With about 237,250 inhabitants it is the biggest city and the principal town of the East Flanders’ province. The history of Ghent sets off about the year 630, when the monk Amandus, coming to Christianize the Celts, chose the site (called ‘Ganda’) at the confluence of the rivers the Leie and the Scheldt, to erect an abbey which became the St. Bavo’s Abbey, followed by the construction of the St.-Pieters’ Abbey. Throughout the middle Ages, Ghent became one of the largest and richest cities of northern Europe, renown for its cloth; it is also the birth town of the emperor Charles V. Ghent was an important centre during the religious war and the industrial revolution and became a bastion of socialism. These 1400 years of history are still tangible: a medieval castle surrounded by a moat, an imposing cathedral, a belfry, three beguinages, imposing mansions, industrial monuments etc. Nowhere else does one find so

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much history per square meter than in the historical heart of Ghent. Nowadays mainly the port of Ghent and the university are the economic strengths of the city. The official language in Ghent is Dutch, but most citizens also speak French, English and/or German.

1.2. The University

Ghent University, abbreviated to UGent, is one of the major universities in the Dutch-speaking region of Europe. It distinguishes itself as a socially committed and pluralistic university in a broad international perspective.

Over 130 faculty departments, spread over 11 faculties, offer high-quality courses in every one of their scientific disciplines. Anno 2009, there are about 25.000 students.

Marine Sciences Research is embedded mainly within the Faculty of Sciences (Department of Biology and Geology), Bio-sciences (Aquaculture, Ecotoxicology), Law, Engineering.

The Biology department is well known for its marine ecology laboratories (mainly focusing on community and food web studies of benthic organisms) and the use of biodiversity

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measurements for policy and nature conservation. Experts in the taxonomy and evolutionary biology of benthic marine organisms (nematodes, copepods, polychaetes, algae, protists) are part of European networks such as MarBEF (Marine Biodiversity and Ecosystem Functioning).

Ecosystem functioning of coastal waters (North Sea and adjacent estuaries, tropical systems such as mangroves, coral reefs, ..) and extreme environments (deep sea, polar regions, ..) belong to the key items of the research activities.

Ghent University has research agreements with the Flanders Marine Institute (VLIZ-Ostend, Belgium, www.vliz.be) for Data and information management (the IOC-offices and the ESF Marine Board are also hosted by the VLIZ and regular training courses are given there on several aspects of data-and information management), very important for setting up European policies.

EMBC - Courses in Ghent:

Applied biodiversity science: policy, management and conservation; Aquaculture; Biodiversity of aquatic food-webs: from algae to marine animals; Biodiversity of marine micro-organisms; Biogeochemical cycles; Biostatistics: experimental design and multivariate analysis; Cultural module; Data and information management; Ecological modeling; Environmental impact assessment, Evolution and biogeography of aquatic organisms, Fisheries, Internship, Margin systems and extreme environments, Marine ecology, Marine geology, Molecular techniques and their application in evolutionary and ecological studies, Oceanography, Paleoecology and global change, Practical taxonomy, Preparation of research proposal, Specific topics in conservation and restoration of marine biodiversity,

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Specific topics in methodology for marine biodiversity, Specific topics in understanding marine biodiversity, Statistics, Taxonomy of selected groups, Academic English, Dutch language and Flemish Culture.

For more information about the content of the courses see website and vademecum with the course list.

2. Obligatory Requirements

2.1 Visa application for Erasmus Mundus students coming to Belgium. If you want your VISA application to be successful, you will have to submit the following documents and respect the following procedures: 2.1.1. Required documents:

A valid national passport (Validity should not

expire 2 years after arrival) Application form and passport photo, both in

duplicate. You can download the Visa application form at www.diplomatie.be in different languages. The applicant ought to fill in this form completely, and then date and sign it.

Certificate of Academic Admission/enrolment (mentioning the name of the student and the course) issued by the faculty/rectorate

Chinese nationality students need to obtain an APS certificate i.e. a certificate of academic screening issued by the Academic Evaluation Centre (APS) of

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the German Embassy in Beijing before they can study in Belgium. Chinese students who are already here can be exempted only if they can demonstrate that they already obtained 30 ECTs

Proof of solvency / solvability i.e.

(1) A proof that you have a scholarship or (2) An "agreement for acceptance of financial responsibility". This form only exists officially in Dutch (Verbintenis tot Tenlasteneming) or in French (Engagement de prise en charge). If your sponsor/guarantor lives in Belgium, the form is available at the municipality. The municipality will receive the completed form and forward it to the Ministry of Interior who investigates if this person is financially capable to support you. If the sponsor lives abroad, (s)he gets the form in the country where he lives. The Belgian Consulate of Embassy forwards it to the Belgian Ministry of Interior. The Belgian Consulate or Embassy in your home country can inform what proof you will need and the procedures to follow.

Medical Certificate Only for non - EEA nationals. (EEA: European Economic Area). This certificate states that you are in good health and are not a carrier of contagious diseases. The official form for the medical certificate is to obtain from the Belgian diplomatic services in your country. The certificate has to be completed by a doctor appointed by the Belgian diplomatic or consular agent.

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Police Clearance/ Certificate of good conduct

Only non - EEA nationals You can obtain that document at the police station of your country. It normally covers the last five years and should not be older than 6 months. If the police department does not provide that document ask the Belgian Consulate or Embassy what steps you have to take. 2.1.2. Procedures:

The application ought to take place in the embassy or consulate competent for the place where you usual reside.

In some countries the initiation of the application process can be outsourced by a firm who then hands over the completed application file for approval by the authorized diplomatic service.

Students who need to apply for their visa in another country (because there is no Belgian embassy nor Belgian Consulate in their country) are strongly advised to travel and to introduce their application personally. If this appears not to be possible then the student can bundle the original required documents and include a copy of ALL the pages of the International passport. This package can then be sent to the Embassy/Consulate by courier (e.g. DHL, UPS, FedEx). From the moment the embassy starts treating your file you will be personally invited for the further finalizing of your application process.

In some cases the Embassy/Consulate can invite you for a personal interview. In this case you will have to present yourself with possibly one or more extra document(s) to complete the application.

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2.2. Residence Permit All foreigner students staying in Ghent have to report to the Foreigners Registration Office of the City of Ghent within eight working days after arrival. 2.2.1. Non-EU students: 2.2.1.1. Procedure:

First step Register on-line as a foreign student (www.studentingent.be) at the Foreigners' Registration Office of the City of Ghent. You have to fill in the Dutch 'Arrival Form' and mail it to vreemdelingen@gent.be ATTENTION: A translation of this document from Dutch to English, only explains what you need to fill in. Fields in red, bold and with an asterisk * are mandatory. Please, fill in this document very carefully. Use EXACTLY THE SAME information of your official passport or identity card to fill in your surname, name, birth (date, country, city).

Second step When all compulsory information has been completed and sent off, you will receive an electronic receipt notice of your e-mail and during one of the next weekends (after 18:00) the police will come to check your address on request of the Foreigners'Registration Office. (If you are not at home they will leave a reminder letter in English). As soon as its gets the confirmation of your residence from the police, the Foreigners' Registration Office will send you an e-mail in English containing the following information and documents:

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1. An official invitation and appointment to come to one of its two registrations centre (see below) to complete your registration and to formally apply for your electronic ID-card. 2. Confirmation of the registration of your residence address 3.Your official National Number (in some cases already important to obtain your national health insurance) 4. A form called Annex 15 which proves that you started the official procedure to obtain an Electronic ID-Card (handy in case of a police control).

Third step When you go to your appointment at one of the Foreigners 'Registration Offices, please bring with you all the documents they require. If one single document is missing, the office will not to be able to deliver the electronic ID-Card. In your own interest, please respect also the date and the hour of your appointment! 2.2.2. EU Students Students from neighboring countries (NL, F, D or L) and students from another EU country (non-neighboring countries) can read the procedures online www.studentingent.be 2.2.3. Departure (for all students) Just as you register when you arrive, it is very important to deregister when you leave! One or two days before

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leaving Belgium, you must fill in the “Declaration of Departure” form and send it to the City Council. 2.2.4. Important addresses: Registration centre 1: For students residing in the city centre, north of St-Pieters Station: (1) Foreigners Registration Office 'Het Zuid' Woodrow Wilsonplein 1, B-9000 Ghent Counter 3 and 4 tel + 32 (0) 9 266 71 50 - fax + 32 (0) 9 266 71 69 Open: every working day 8h00-13h00, Wednesday between 14h00-18h00, Saturday from 9h00-11h30. Registration centre 2: For students residing south of St-Pieters Station: (2) Dienstencentrum Nieuw-Gent, Rerum Novarumplein 186A + 32 (0) 9 268 21 70 - fax + 32 (0) 9 222 06 25 - dcng@gent.be Open: every working day 8h00-13h00 and 14h00-16h00 except on Thursday afternoon, Wednesday between 14h00-18h00. 2.3 Enrolment at Ghent University

To complete your inscription at Ghent University you need the following documents:

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Original diploma (non-EU students need a legalized diploma by the Belgian embassy of their home country)

Invitation letter of Consortium (non- EU students) or admission letter of University ( EU students)

Proof of payment of tuition fee (EU students) European Insurance card (non-EU students receive

this upon arrival) 2.4. Health Insurance EMBC students with an ERASMUS MUNDUS scholarship have insurance coverage by the ERASMUS MUNDUS Program. They will receive their insurance cards in the EMBC coordinator’s office. There is an independent insurance office HZIV where you can register for free and that also covers doctor costs. 2.5. Bank Account EMBC students can open a bank account here in Belgium on which they will receive their monthly scholarship. To open an account you have to pay a small amount (+/- 20 Euro).

3. Facilities and Practical Information 3.1. Arrival in Belgium Belgium has two main airports, Brussels Airport (Zaventem, about 10 km from the city center of Brussels) and Charleroi Airport (city of Charleroi, 46 km south of Brussels). Nearly all international flights coming into Belgium arrive at Brussels Airport.

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How to choose your flights? If you are not going to book your flight through a travel agency, www.skyscanner.net is very easy to consult and tells you everything about flights from all over the world to Belgium. It is also possible to make a price comparison between the different airlines that travel between Belgium and your airport of departure. How to reach Ghent? Both Brussels airport and Charleroi airport are connected to the three main railway stations of Brussels (South or Midi-Zuid, Central and North) by shuttle (bus) service and/or train. For more information on transportation between the two airports and Ghent, please visit the websites below: Transport between Brussels Airport and Ghent (www.nmbs.be). Transport between Charleroi Airport and Ghent (www.delijn.be, www.nmbs.be) The easiest way to travel from each airport to Ghent is by train, but there is no train traffic during the night (between 0h30 and 5h30)! Travelling between Charleroi and Ghent takes at least 2 hours; travelling between Brussels and Ghent takes about 1 hour. The ticket Brussels - Ghent will cost around 12 euro. If you should arrive late in the airport and there is no train anymore, we can pick you up in the airport.

3.2. Cost of living

The actual living cost in Ghent is about 650 euro per month (including 300-350 euro for a student room).

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3.3. Housing facilities

Cosy, well-equipped (including internet access) and safe student accommodation can help to make your studies more enjoyable.

The Housing department rents out its own rooms, studios and apartments. It also informs and advises students and owners about ‘digs’ on the private market.

When you are still in your home country you can, through the EMBC secretariat, give your preference how you want to live here in Ghent ( sharing a house with other students, a studio, share bathroom or kitchen, individual bathroom or kitchen,..). Housing department will look for the most appropriate place for you to stay. So if you arrive here in Ghent, you can directly stay in your room/house.

You can also look yourself when you arrive here (you can ask EMBC secretariat to divide you this information), but as Ghent is a popular student city, it can be more difficult to find something to your preferences later in September.

Students who come from far, don’t need to bring cooking material and a sleeping set. Housing department divides pots and pans, cutlery, plates and cups, blanket, pillow and sheets for a reasonable price.

See more information: www.ugent.be

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3.4. Public Transport In Ghent many people move themselves by bike. The city center is overwhelmed by students biking. As a student you can rend a bike ( www.studentenmobiliteit.be) or you can buy cheap bikes on the second hand market in the city center. You can also move easily by bus or tram( www.delijn.be).

3.5. Food and Drinks

In Ghent there is a wide range of student restaurants (staff are also welcome). They are all situated in the vicinity of the various faculties and departments. The service and food they offer is of a high quality, while the prices are the lowest in town. The restaurants serve over 4000 meals on a daily basis. Dieticians make sure that the menus are varied, healthy and balanced. Vegetarian alternatives are available (no halal or kosher kitchen). Do not forget to bring your student or personal card with you: otherwise you must pay a higher price for your food.

With so many influences among its current varied population, it is not surprising that the Belgians have a passion for food and cooking. Various invaders throughout history including the Romans, Vikings, Spanish, French and English have all left their mark on the national cuisine.

The much quoted saying is that the Belgians cook their food with the finesse of the French but serve it in generous German size portions!

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3.6. Sports

Ghent University boasts a fully-equipped sports centre ("GUSB"), with three large and two small halls for indoor activities, a 25-meter swimming pool, an instruction pool, two saunas, two football fields, and more! Special attention is devoted to sports for disabled students. The university also offers individual supporting services and counseling for students who are actively involved in top-class sports.

Some of the sports that can be pursued are: aerobics, aikido, condition gym, badminton, basketball, bujinkan bujutsu, cross-country running, diving, BBB, football, handball, hockey, horse riding, jazz-dance, jogging in group, judo, karate, kayaking, korfball, Latino moves, mini-football and five-a-side football, Body&Mind, rugby, sailing, swimming, table tennis, tennis, volleyball, water polo, yoga, etc.

3.7. Other Social Information

At first, Flemish people appear to be modest and introvert. Initially, most of them do not make contact easily with people they do not know. From the moment they get to know you, however, they become very sociable. Never hesitate to start a conversation, the Flemish are helpful and friendly, especially if you try to talk their language. If people hear that you do not speak Dutch that well they will switch to French, English, German or another language to help you. Flemish people are mostly open-minded. Nevertheless, people may be offended when young people are violent, make a lot of noise, behave dangerously,... On buses, trains and trams people talk softly and it is polite for young people to give their seat to the elderly, handicapped or pregnant. Leaving rubbish or littering is not done!

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No discrimination allowed

As in many other parts of the world, the traditional image of women has changed. Women have achieved equal rights and have the same professional status as men. They are emancipated, self-confident and do not allow themselves to be dominated. Opinions of both men and women are equally respected and accepted. In Flanders, several cultures coexist peacefully. The Turkish, African, Moroccan and Asian minorities are considered to be a cultural aspect that enriches the Flemish culture. Mutual respect is very important in a multicultural society. Racism, violence and discrimination against migrants is a crime that will be prosecuted.

Basic Advice

Although simple politeness is always expected, Belgian people are generally relaxed. They like to hear “please” and “thank you” repeatedly! People here are very friendly but quite reserved especially talking to strangers.

It is not polite to be late. It is important to be on time for appointments, so if you find you are going to be late for a meeting or if you cannot keep the appointment, contact the person you are going to meet beforehand.

If you are invited to someone's home for a meal, it is polite to take a small gift (for example: wine, chocolates or flowers), or you could invite them to your home in return. If you have any special religious or dietary requirements, it is considered good manners to tell your hosts about them in advance.

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When you are in a bank or other shop, you are expected to queue – stand in line and wait your turn. People can get very angry if you “jump the queue”.

People often just get together in a pub/café in the afternoons, or in a restaurant in town in the evenings. Pubs are popular social meeting places and sell a range of soft drinks as well as alcohol. Usually each person pays their own bill, unless otherwise agreed.

You may wish to give a tip (about 10%) to a taxi driver or in a restaurant. If you have a meal in a restaurant, check if a service charge is included before leaving a tip.

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4. Contact information

The EMBC secretariat is located in Ghent. For general information about the EMBC Program and information about Ghent University, you can contact Magda Vincx, Tim Deprez or An Espeel. Find more information at www.ugent.be Krijgslaan 281/S8 9000 Gent embc@ugent.be phone: +32(0)9 264. 85. 16 fax: +32(0)9 264. 85. 98 Magda Vincx Tim Deprez An Espeel

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1. Introduction

“The University of Bremen is a prestigious university and it collaborates with many institutes (AWI, MPI, ZMT). The marine biology department has excellent laboratory equipment. As a student, you have a semester ticket that provides free public transportation in the city.”

“The organization here in Bremen is really good for international students. And the life style is great!”

1.1. The city

The old Hanse City of Bremen is situated in the northwestern German lowlands, about 70 km from the North Sea, and was Germany's first "City of Science" in 2005. Beautiful old buildings (e.g. the townhall, UNESCO world cultural heritage) and exciting modern architecture (Universum Science Center) are almost completely surrounded by a "green belt", structured by rivers and to a considerable extent assigned as nature conservation areas. A special student ticket for public transport, included in the tuition fee, allows students to explore even the wider surroundings from the North Sea coast with the unique Wadden Sea ecosystem and the popular beaches of Cuxhaven to the City of Hamburg.

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1.2. The University

The University of Bremen has about 22,000 students and its campus is located to the north of the city centre, accessible by tram. At the Faculty of Biology and Chemistry (FB 2), specialized research teams focus on Marine Microbiology, Marine Botany, Marine Zoology, and Marine Chemistry. In addition, the University has departments for Physical Oceanography (FB 1) and Marine Geosciences (FB 5), all contributing to the wide expertise in state-of-the-art marine research, on which the ERASMUS MUNDUS M.Sc. in Marine Biodiversity and Conservation is based. Teaching and research at the University of Bremen strongly benefit from the unique concentration of world-class marine research institutions in the Federal State of Bremen. Heads of Departments and other leading scientists of the Alfred Wegener Institute for Polar and Marine Research (AWI), of the Max Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology (MPI) and of the Leibniz-Center for Tropical Marine Ecology (ZMT) are at the same time ordinary professors at the University of Bremen.

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EMBC - Courses in Bremen: Advanced methods in marine biodiversity research; Aquatic Pollution; Benthos and Fish ecology: Concepts of Ecology; Economic valuation of natural resources; Ecophysiology of marine algae, Ecophysiology of marine animals; Experimental Design, Fisheries biology and aquaculture; GIS applied to coastal management; Global change and marine systems; International Marine environmental protection; Law of the sea and international environmental marine law; Marine algae and the associated animals; marine biogeochemistry; Marine biology colloquium; Marine chemical ecology; Marine chemistry; Marine ecotoxicology; Marine geosciences; Marine microbiology; Marine research in Bremen; Mathematical models of biological systems: Modelling in conservation biology; Physical oceanography; Plankton ecology; Population dynamics and stock assessment; Preparation of research proposal; Principles of Marine Ecophysiology; Scientific Communication; Taxonomy of marine invertebrates; Trophic modeling; Language teaching. More information about the content of the courses you can find on the website and the vademecum with the courses.

2. Obligatory Requirements

While still at home you should prepare and obtain: ● A passport valid for the entire period to be spent in Germany.

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● The notification of admission from the EMBC office and the invitation from Bremen University to start your studies in Bremen. ● Proof of financial resources (e.g. confirmation of ERASMUS MUNDUS scholarship). ● Visa (not a tourist visa). EU citizens and those of Norway, Switzerland, Canada and the USA do not require a visa. There are different types of visa: in most cases, the German embassy will issue a visa valid for three months to enter Germany, which has to be prolonged once you are in Bremen.

You will need the originals and certified translations of the following documents: ● birth certificate and passport ● secondary school leaving certificate ● B.Sc. certificate and possibly other academic qualifications ● Certificate of English language skills according to C1 level ● Possibly a confirmation of health insurance cover (if it is recognised in Germany). EMBC students with an ERASMUS MUNDUS scholarship will be covered by the ERASMUS MUNDUS insurance scheme. ● Possibly a book of vaccination certificates, if you have one (enquire at the German consulate if you need any vaccinations)

Certifications abroad can be obtained at German embassies and consulates or from the institution, which issued the original document. Some useful things to take with you: ● medicines you need ● travellers' cheques

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● some German cash for your arrival and the first rent. Even if you receive an ERASMUS MUNDUS scholarship, it may take some days before the first installation fee arrives on your bank account. ● passport photographs ● a power plug and possibly a voltage converter for electric appliances. Electric power in Germany is 230V/50Hz. Important registration procedures The first days in Germany will be occupied with registration at the citizens’ registration office and at the foreigners’ registration office, organising a health insurance policy (if not previously done), opening a bank account, and enrolment at the University of Bremen. This is a complex procedure, but everything can be done at the BSU agency located on campus and the tutor will help you. Since the different issues are all interdependent, we recommend you to follow the order below: 2.1. Visa / Schengen visa Application for Non-EU citizens only. Go to Foreigner Office (“Ausländerbehörde”) at BSU with the following documents: a. Registration document (“Meldebestätigung” see above) b. Form to apply for status of residency: “Antrag auf Erteilung eines Aufenthaltstitels” (to be received from clerks at Foreigner office, BSU) c. Proof of health insurance: EHIC, scholarship health insurance card, or letter of the insurance company confirming the coverage

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d. Confirmation of student status: Letter of enrolment or “Immatrikulationsbescheinigung” e. Confirmation of financial independence: Scholarship or financial support by parents f. Biometric picture g. Passport 2.2. Residence Permit

Registration at registry office (BSU): “

Compulsory registration for all EU- and Non-EU citizens. Go to BSU and receive a form and fill in your … Address in Bremen, home address: town & country, personal details: name, birth date and place, passport or ID details, and signature. You receive the “Meldebestätigung” necessary for a bank account, visa and library card. BSU: Opening hours: Tuesday & Thursday: 9-13, and Wednesday: 10-13 & 14-16 (Go as early as you can to avoid long waiting hours; get a waiting number from clerks.) 2.3. Enrolment at the University of Bremen

Enrolment is to be done at the Secretariat for Students International (SfSI) located in the administrative building next to the International Office of Bremen University. You receive the Letter of Enrolment and your student ID number. With the student ID number your coordinator can place the payment of the semester fees, which will be covered by EMBC. It takes 3 to 7 days upon payment of the semester

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fees to receive the student ID card, semester ticket and Immatrikulationsbescheinigung. 2.4. Bank account You need your “Meldebestätigung” for opening a bank account. With a student ID, bank accounts are free of fees in Germany. 2.5. Health insurance Sufficient health insurance is obligatory for all students, who want to enrol at a German university. The student rate of our public health insurance is set by the government: ca. Euro 65,- per month. EMBC students with an ERASMUS MUNDUS scholarship have insurance coverage by the ERASMUS MUNDUS Program. They will receive their insurance cards in the coordinator’s office. Other international students should check whether their national health insurance will cover costs that may arise during their stay in Germany and bring along a confirmation by their insurance company. For students from other EU countries, it is often cheaper to remain in your national health insurance.

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3. Facilities and practical Information 3.1. Arrival in Germany We recommend you not to arrive at the weekend in Germany because all public administration offices and, from Saturday afternoon onwards, all shops will be closed. There will be a tutor, who can pick you up at Bremen airport or main train station and show you the way to your accommodation, if you arrange your arrival in Bremen for a reasonable time of the day. You should contact the tutor well in advance of your arrival and inform her about your travel details. The tutor can also establish contact with your landlord beforehand to arrange for the keys of your accommodation, etc. In addition, the International Office of the University of Bremen can help you to arrange your first days in Germany. It is situated in the administrative building of the university and open from 9 to 12. International students are advised to arrive in the first days of October. Your accommodation will usually only be available from October onwards. On the other hand, there will be introductory events organised by the International Office and an obligatory German language course in the two weeks before the start of the lecture period. Thus, you have to be in Bremen at least two weeks before the official start of the lecture period.

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3.2. Cost of living You will need about 650 Euro per month to lead a modest life, including ● Accommodation / rent for your room: 250 Euro ● Heating, electricity, water and telephone: 50 Euro ● Health insurance: 65 Euro ● Meals and beverages: 240 Euro ● Additional costs for books, study materials, clothes, sport/leisure, field trips, etc: 45 Euro You will incur a lot of expenses during the first few days: a deposit on accommodation, the first instalment of the rent, health insurance, maybe money for a bike and/or a laptop computer. Thus, we recommend you to reserve at least 900 Euro for these initial expenses. Even if you receive an ERASMUS MUNDUS scholarship, it may take a few days before you receive the first instalment. So, be prepared and bring some cash money with you. 3.3. Housing Facilities German universities only offer a limited number of dormitory places. Most students look for accommodation on the private market. Rents range from 170 € (very low standard) to 300 € for a single room in an apartment-sharing community (kitchen & bathrooms are shared). You have to pay your rent every month within the first 3 days, either cash or via bank transfer. Most contracts have a 3 month cancellation period (i.e. you have to quit the contract 3 month in advance of your departure). At the start of the term, many students are looking for accommodation. Therefore, you should accept the accommodation offer given by the Accommodation Team of

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Bremen University, since it can be very difficult to find a room by yourself. Keep in mind: low-cost accommodations (<220 €) have lower standards! 3.4. Public Transport Bremen has a very well developed public transport system with many tram and bus lines. Tram line 6 crosses the city from north to south. It starts at Bremen airport, south of the city centre, has several stops in the centre and at the main train station and ends directly at the university, north of the city centre. Students will receive a so-called semester ticket. With this ticket you can use trams, buses and many regional trains free of charge. It allows students to explore even the wider surroundings from the North Sea coast with the unique Wadden Sea ecosystem and the popular beaches of Cuxhaven to the cities of Hamburg and Hannover. For the first days of your stay in Bremen, you should buy a week ticket since it will take some days before you receive your semester ticket. 3.5. Food and drinks The classic German breakfast is hearty and comprised of bread, cheese, cold meats, jam, and coffee or tea. Traditionally, the main hot meal in Germany is lunch, eaten between 12:00 and 13:00. Before starting to eat people wish each other "Guten Appetit". As the name in German suggests, the evening meal or "Abendbrot" is essentially composed, once again, of bread and butter with cold meats and cheese. Traditionally it is served earlier than in many other countries, around 19:00. However, these traditional habits are no longer observed by everyone. Lots of Germans

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eat different things for breakfast or nothing at all, only have a snack at lunchtime, or eat a hot meal sometime in the evening. 3.6. Other social Information Tipping The prices cited actually include 19% value added tax and a service charge. Nevertheless, it is customary to leave a tip in restaurants, cafés, and other places where your bill is brought to your table. Etiquette & attitudes As in all countries there are certain forms of behaviour and manners that are considered polite or impolite. You should know about the German version of these if you don’t want to put your foot in it. Students are more informal so it is advisable to take note of both behavioural codes. Dress code On the whole, there are no strict rules about what to wear in Germany: You wear more or less what you like. Punctuality It cannot be denied that Germans place a lot of emphasis on punctuality. If you have an appointment with your professor or a doctor, there is one thing you should certainly not do - keep him or her waiting! Amongst themselves students are usually more easy-going. Perhaps this is due to the fact that university lectures seldom begin on the hour ("s. t." = sine tempore) but only 15 minutes after the full hour at the “academic quarter” ("c. t." = cum tempore).

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4. Contact information

For information concerning the matters of studies please contact the coordinator of The Erasmus Mundus Master of Science in Marine Biodiversity and Conservation (EMBC) at University of Bremen, contact Holger Auel (hauel@uni-bremen.de) or Wilhelm Hagen (whagen@uni-bremen.de) or find more information at www.uni-bremen.de

Holger Auel Wilhelm Hagen

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1. Introduction

“Kind professors with great scientific knowledge”.

“City is good for students, cheap accommodations and food is also cheap. Several opportunities for sports and very friendly people”

1.1. The City

Faro is the administrative centre for the whole of the Algarve region with a population of approximately 55.000 people. The city has both Arab and Roman ruins but most of the present attractive older buildings were constructed after the disastrous earthquake of 1755. Particularly attractive is the old part of the city surrounded still by the Roman walls which date back to the 9th century. Faro is also the home of the Ria Formosa lagoon, a nature reserve of over 17 000 hectares and a stopping place for many species of birds during the spring and autumn migratory periods. The beach is about 7 kms from the city centre. The city has an attractive marina, well-maintained parks and plazas and an old town full of outdoor cafés and pedestrian lanes. Besides its museums and beautiful churches and chapels, Faro also boasts a vibrant nightlife.

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1.2. The University

The University of Algarve has taken part in numerous and successful transnational partnerships and projects within and outside the European Union. It carries out teaching and research in various domains. It has participated in the Erasmus Program since 1993 and holds an Erasmus Charter. The International Relations and Mobility Office develop, promote and coordinate most of the university’s international relations, articulating with internal and external services/offices, and managing all mobility Programs. Undergraduate, Masters and PhDs Programs are offered according to the Bologna Declaration. The university provides information and advice on pre-arrival needs (visa information), induction, arrival orientation and cultural integration (Portuguese language courses). Scientific activities are developed in the context of internationalization. International, inter-personal and inter-institutional networks, and projects developed in collaboration and cooperation with other universities, reflect, and are reflected in, it’s teaching and research activities so as to foster innovation and update of learning contents, project incubation, curriculum

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development, scientific research and training. International projects are fully integrated into the life of the institution.

The University of the Algarve currently has an estimated number of 9,500 students and a teaching staff of approximately 700.

Research is carried out in laboratories, institutes and research centers in connection with the public and private sectors as well as through exchange Programs with external universities and national and international entities. EMBC Courses at the University of Algarve:

Analytical methods in marine biology – protein biochemistry; Aquatic microbial ecology; Biogeochemical processes and global changes; Bio-informatics; Conservation of management of marine resources; Dynamics of aquatic ecosystems; Ecology and behavior of marine mammals; Ecophysiology of extreme and changing environments; Estuarine and coastal ecohydrology; Eutrophication and impacts of marine biodiversity; Field methods, Fish chemical ecology and behavior; Habitat seabed mapping, impact of fishing on marine biodiversity and ecosystems; Laboratory methods; Malacology; Marine biogeography and evolution; Marine ecophysiology, Marine ecotoxicology, Marine geology; Marine population biology; Marine protected areas; Methods and processes in biological oceanography; Monitoring biodiversity of rocky shores; Practical aspect of taxonomy;Resource ecology; Scientific communication; Scientific writing; Statistical analysis; Stock assessment; techniques in Molecular and

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Cellular biology;Underwater methods for marine biodiversity; Language Teaching.

More information about the content of the courses you can find on the website and in the vademecum.

2. Obligatory Requirements

2.1. The International Relations and Mobility Office

University’s International Office located in Campus de Gambelas, Library building. You will need to complete a brief form. We will also be happy to clarify any questions you may have relating to your move to Algarve.

After finding the rooms go to the International Relations and Mobility Office to register, as soon as possible (opening hours: Monday to Friday from 10:00h to 12:30h and 14:00h to 16:00h).

Documents to bring to the Mobility Office:

Passport (valid for the entire period of study) Student visa Document of Identification from your country 2 photos Insurance health document

After arriving you should (though not necessarily in the following order):

Appear at International Relations and Mobility Office in order to create a Student ID card

Register at SEF Obtain a residence declaration Open a bank account

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2.2. Residence Permit

If you are a NON-European Student you need to:

Register at SEF (Immigration Office)

Upon arrival, the students who will stay in Faro longer than their Visa allows (more than 3 months) will apply for a Residence Permit at the local office of SEF (Serviços de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras, Foreigners and Borders Services). If you are calling from a land line, please dial: 808 202 653 If you are calling from a mobile phone, please dial: 808 962 690 The SEF Call Centre provides support in a number of languages. We suggest you contact SEF in the morning, preferably when it opens at 8:30 am, so that you are not put on hold for very long. Have your passport details with you when you call as you may be asked to provide specific information. You will be given a time and date to meet with a SEF officer in person. Given that SEF is always extremely busy, appointments may take up to three months time from scheduling call. For your interview, it is important that when you contact SEF to arrange your interview date that you ask what documents you are required to take with you. Often this includes passport, proof of funding, proof of accommodation, health insurance, photos, etc. Be prepared for a long wait at SEF, two to four hours is not uncommon even though you have scheduled an interview. Hours of operation during weekdays are from 08h30 to 19:00 and Saturday from 9h00 to 13h00.

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2.3. Enrolment at University of the Algarve To complete your inscription at University of Algarve you need the following documents:

Original diploma (non-EU students need a legalized diploma by the Belgian/Portuguese embassy of their

home) Invitation letter of Consortium (non- EU students)

or admission letter of University ( EU students) Proof of payment of tuition fee ( EU students) European Insurance card (non-EU students receive

this if they arrive) 2.4. Bank Account In Faro you can easily open a Portuguese bank account where the monthly scholarship will be deposited. 2.5. Health Insurance EMBC students with an ERASMUS MUNDUS scholarship have insurance coverage by the ERASMUS MUNDUS Program. They will receive their insurance cards through the EMBC coordinator’s office.

3. Facilities and Practical Information

Students are provided accommodation in halls of residence or are given support in finding private housing. Students are integrated into classes within the regular curriculum and

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benefit from integrated access to a university e-mail account, internet access, IT equipped classrooms, tutoring, library, and other university and student support facilities. 3.1. Cost of living Portugal has a relatively low cost of living. Utility rates (electricity, water) are generally much less expensive than in other EU states. A wide variety of bars and restaurants provide food and drinks at affordable prices. However, prices in the Algarve are a little higher than in other parts of Portugal where tourism is not so common.

3.2. Arrival in Portugal

Portugal has three major airports: Porto (Airport Francisco Sá Carneiro), Lisbon (Airport of Portela) and Faro (Airport of Faro). If you arrive at Lisbon, you can take a train to Faro (www.cp.pt) from the Oriente station, near the airport. There are 6 trains every day, two of which are express trains taking around 3 hours. A one way 2nd class ticket is around 19.50 €. There are also express buses from Lisbon to Faro (www.rede-expressos.pt) that take roughly the same time. The airport is approximately 7 km from the centre of Faro. You can take a taxi for 7 – 10 €.

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3.3. Housing facilities

Temporary accommodation in Faro:

If you are planning on arriving in August, you can stay at the youth hostel: faro@movijovem.pt prices (including breakfast) are (approximately): shared bunk room: 14 euros a night single room without bathroom: 32 euros single room with private bathroom: 40 euros You should book as soon as possible, as the youth hostel is very popular in August. If you want to stay in the university residences from September 1 on, then please let the Mobility office know: Marleni (mdper@ualg.pt) and/or Mercês (gabmob4@ualg.pt). If you do not have permanent accommodation already arranged you should try and settle this as soon as possible. You will need to be able to provide a correspondence/home address in order to obtain many of your Portuguese documents. Also, please note that you should always keep hold of original documents. Most students rent apartments in town or on the beach in the Praia de Faro (not advisable in winter, but great from around February on). Information on rentals is available at the Mobility Office, or can be found posted in supermarkets and shops located near the university and also in the faculty (Building 7). It is very useful to get a Portuguese student to help in contacting the owners and negotiating the rent.

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3.4. Public transport

You can take the numbers 15 and 18 buses from Faro to Campus de Gambelas. For timetables see: www.eva-bus.com

Trains and taxis are also common used in Algarve and for a reasonable price.

3.5. Food and drinks

Eating out is one of the greatest pleasures when on holiday in the Algarve! The variety of fresh seafood and locally grown fruit and vegetables is available in abundance. Fish is best when simply grilled on an open charcoal fire. A typical cheap meal to order is grilled sardines, accompanied by new potatoes and salad. The more elaborate seafood dishes such as seafood rice (arroz de marisco), stewed clams with spicy sausage, pork, garlic and onions, (ameijoas na cataplana), and of course the famous salt cod which may be cooked in many different ways. Should you prefer meat, then chicken, pork, lamb, kid and rabbit are generally better choices than beef. Restaurants normally serve large portions, and you may wish to skip the starter, as the "couvert" includes fish paté, olives and bread. Many of the Portuguese desserts and cakes are rich in almonds, eggs, sugar and butter.

3.6. Useful information in Faro

Faro has a main Hospital and several private clinics. The Hospital works 24 hours per day (Emergency Room). It is located at city center, close to the Penha Campus. The address is at Avenida Calouste Gulbenkian and the entrances are quite well marked.

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In order to apply for a University residence you have to fill the Accommodation Form which is available online. Afterwards, in case we gave place for you, you will have to show at the SAS (University Social Services) at Campus da Penha.

The University also provides Intensive Portuguese

Courses that you will have to apply at the deadlines posted online. At your arrival on International Relations and Mobility Office we will present you the remaining information concerning the Intensive Portuguese Course (IPC).

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4. Contact Information

For information concerning the matters of studies please contact the coordinator of The Erasmus Mundus Master of Science in Marine Biodiversity and Conservation (EMBC) at University of Algarve contact Karim Erzini (Office 3.1 in Building 7, Tel.: 289 800100, extension 7237, email: kerzini@ualg.pt) or Ester Serrão (Office 1.27, in Building 7, Tel: extension 7928, email: eserrao@ualg.pt) or Alexandra Chicaro

Karim Erzini Ester Serrão Alexandra Chicharo

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1. Introduction

“Oviedo provides quite good classes in ecology especially in mathematical perspective and general oceanography”

“The city is nice, the people are very friendly and open”

1.1. The city

The University of Oviedo is situated in the region of Asturias comprises an important biogeographic frontier which serves as a natural laboratory for the study of Marine Biodiversity. The University of Oviedo has seagoing, culturing, and laboratory facilities for the scientific analysis of marine biota, and collaborates with governmental and private institutions. Oviedo is a beautiful, monumental city, with lively university community and intense cultural life.

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The Asturias region comprises a high (up to 2500 m) mountain range with excellent conditions for winter skiing, hiking and outdoor activities, and a coastline with more than 100 beaches.

1.2. The university

The Faculty of Biology at the University of Oviedo is one of the 20 most productive centers in Marine Sciences in Spain. Activities range from Marine Ecology through Biological Oceanography to Genetics of Marine Resources.

The Oceanographic Center of Gijón is located at 28 km from Oviedo and belongs to the Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO; Spanish Institute of Oceanography, (www.ieo.es). Researchers at this center are deeply involved in the teaching activities of the EMBC, and their expertise includes modeling of marine ecosystems, fisheries ecology, global change studies or Marine Microbiology. Collaboration between the University of Oviedo and the IEO is active, and contributes to a critical mass of Marine Biodiversity researchers in the Asturias region which will ensure a high quality EMBC program. Other institutions directly involved in the EMBC are the Instituto de Hidraulica Ambiental , ADENA/WWF (Madrid), the Red de Seguimiento del Estado Ecológico de las Aguas de Galicia (Network for the Ecological Monitoring of Galician Waters), the Department of Natural Resources Conservation (University of Massachusetts, US) and the FIOCRUZ Institute (Brazil).

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EMBC Courses in Oviedo:

Aquaculture; Biodiversity of marine food-webs; Bio-indicators as tools to assess the impact of environmental pollution; Biological invasions; Ecological modeling; Evolution and biogeography of aquatic organisms; Genetic biodiversity; Geographic Information systems and teledetection; Global change; Impact detection and assessment; Integrated coastal zone management; Internship; Legal and economic aspects of marine resources; Marine biogeochemistry and paleo- oceanography, Marine microbiology; Marine protected areas; molecular techniques and their application; Population biology applied to conservation; Principles of marine biology and oceanography; Sampling and data analysis methods; Seminar work; Spanish courses

More information about the content of the courses you can find on the website and in the vademecum with the course lists.

2. Obligatory requirements

2.1. Student Residence Permit All students and Professors whether from EU countries or not, must request the corresponding permission to stay in the country. Students from the EU and European Economic Area: Students and Professors from EU member states, or from states who are part of the Agreement of the European Economic Area, holders of a valid Identity Card or Passport and who are going to reside in Spain for more than three

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months should ask for the corresponding ‘Registration Certificate as a Community Resident’. Documents required:

Application form Ex 16, original and copy. Valid passport or ID card. If these have expired, you

need to present a copy and the request for renewal. Proof of payment for the costs of this certificate,

except in cases where the applicant holds a NIE issued prior to this request.

Students from non-EU countries: Non EU students/professors, who will be staying in Spain for more than six months and whose study visa does not cover this period should request an ‘Extension of Stay for Studies or Investigation’ before arriving in Oviedo. Documents required:

Application form Ex11, original and copy Full valid passport or ID card Proof of registration on the course (first renewal),

or that the holder has passed the required exams to continue his/her studies or investigation (second renewal)

Proof that the person has the economic means for their stay in Spain.

Proof that s/he has medical insurance to cover his or her stay including medical bills and repatriation costs in case of an accident or medical emergency.

3 photos passport sized, colour with a white background.

In the case of minors, parental or tutorial permission.

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Both these requests for permits should be presented in la Oficina de Extranjeros, Plaza de España nº 3, 33007 Oviedo, with a pre-arranged appointment. Telephone numbers for information: +34 984 769326/29/30/31. Numbers for arranging appointments: +34 985246414 /15 or through the online service: More information on: http://extranjeros.mtas.es/ International students admission to the university of Oviedo For registration purposes you should go to the Faculty of Biology, at Calle Catedrático Rodrigo Uría, sin número.

2.2. Enrolment at University The “a-dUO” Program

The “a-dUO” Program attempts to make arrival in Asturias and at the University of Oviedo as easy as possible for new international students. An international student is assigned to a Spanish student from the same campus, in order to be helped with integration into the city and University life.

To enrol in the Program they must simply fill in a short form that can be found on our website: www.uniovi.es/RI/aduo to receive an email with the instructions and the name of their helper.

The Tandem Program

Learning languages in Tandem is when two speakers of different mother tongues collaborate to improve their knowledge of the other language, culture, and to know more about the other person. The University of Oviedo organises registration at the beginning of November so foreign

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students and Spanish students can meet throughout the course. The most common languages are German, English, French and Italian. For each language, one collaborator ensures s/he provides help in language tuition and those that are interested may obtain a certificate of their participation. Those wishing to take part should speak to the delegates in the Vice Rectorate of Internationalism and Development Cooperation on Campus, where they will be given detailed information and help in finding a Tandem partner. Spanish language and cultural courses The University of Oviedo offers an intensive Program of the Spanish language to students from Erasmus, Tempus, Leonardo, International Exchange Agreements, and recipients of grants from A.E.C.I.D. The intensive courses are at both Intermediate and Advanced levels, two hours daily for the duration of four weeks, and are given in El Milán, El Cristo in Oviedo and also in Gijón. These classes are wholly financed by the University of Oviedo and students need only pay registration fees and the costs of the issuing of certificates of attendance and completion.

These students may also attend translation classes: English-Spanish, French-Spanish, Italian-Spanish and German-Spanish. These courses are held in the Milán Campus in the afternoons, from October to January, and from February to the end of May.

The University of Oviedo also offers a Course of Spanish Language and Culture for Foreigners which students may register for at a special discounted cost. The Program allows students to widen their linguistic knowledge while at the

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same time attaining knowledge of Spanish Culture and Society. These Programs are complemented by a number of activities such as showings of Spanish films, literary competitions, photographic competitions, workshops and open days of Spanish Culture and Society, visits to places of interest, both artistic and sight-seeing …..

For those students with no knowledge or only basic awareness of the language, the University offers Programs of Basic Spanish for Foreigners. All these Programs require a minimum attendance of 90% to have the right to the exam and University of Oviedo Diploma.

The University of Oviedo is also the Official Examinations Centre for D.E.L.E. – a Diploma of Spanish as a Foreign Language. The exams are held in May and November, according to the Calendar established by the Institute of Cervantes. Preparatory courses for the Diplomas at Beginner, Basic and Superior levels in the three weeks prior to the exams. 2.3. Bank Account Common procedures for opening a bank account. 2.4. Health Insurance Foreign students from member Status of the EU, Iceland, Lichtenstein, Norway and Switzerland, may obtain medical care (Social Security) during their stay here in Spain and receive the same benefits as Spanish students. They should, therefore, apply for the new European Medical Card from the Health Authorities in their home country and present an original and its copy together with their passport or identity

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card in any Social Security centre in Spain. If you have any doubts regarding students’ medical insurance, please contact the Instituto Nacional de la Seguridad Social at their offices in Calle Santa Teresa de Jesús 8 y 10, 33005 Oviedo. Telephone numbers: +34 985 107821, 900166565, or consult their website: www.seg-social.es Students from non EU countries may also obtain medical care if there exists a reciprocal agreement between their own country and Spain: Andorra (indefinite), Chile, (2 years maximum), Brazil (maximum 1 year), and Ecuador (maximum 1 year). They should apply in their home country for the relevant medical form, and present this together with a copy and their passport in any Social Security Centre. Foreign students who are not covered by the above should take out some kind of private medical insurance. EMBC students with an ERASMUS MUNDUS scholarship have insurance coverage by the ERASMUS MUNDUS Program. They will receive their insurance cards from the EMBC coordinator’s office.

3. Facilities and Practical Information

3.1. Arrival in Oviedo: Connections with Asturias

By Air: The airport of Asturias is in Ranón, in the region of Castrillón, 45 km from Oviedo, 40 km from Gijón. There are regular flights to Madrid, Barcelona, La Coruña, Tenerife, Palma de Mallorca, Malaga and Alicante. There are also flights to London and Paris. For more information, call the number of the airport

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which figures at the end of this guide. Regular flights have a bus service to both Oviedo and Gijón which have good transport systems so students should have no problems reaching their pre-arranged lodgings.

By Train: There are main train stations in Gijón, Oviedo and Aviles as well as in most areas. For information on services offered, lines, prices and so on, call either RENFE or FEVE (narrow gauge line), numbers are in the guide at the end. From these stations one may take a bus or a taxi.

By Bus: There are a number of bus companies that connect Asturias with other Spanish or foreign cities. Again, the phone numbers for the two largest, ALSA and TURYTRANS can be found at the end of this guide. The bus stations have interurban bus stops and taxi ranks nearby.

By Car: The National road 634 (N634) communicates Asturias with Irún, the Basque country and Cantabria, and the N604 links Madrid with Asturias.

3.2. Cost of living Monthly bills for a university student may be between 500 and 550 euros per month. There is no limit to the amount of money a foreign student can bring into the country. We recommend students use a credit card and open a bank account when they arrive. To open a bank account, it is necessary to have a N.I.E. (Identification number for foreigners living in Oviedo) which can be obtained from either a local Police Station, or the Oficina de Extranjeros, completing the necessary forms.

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3.3. Housing facilities 3.1.1. Rented flats and family stays

The International Relations Service provides foreign students with help in finding accommodation, with their database of rented flats and host families. It is not possible to reserve a room in a rented flat in advance. Students interested in this option should reserve a room in a hotel, hostel or boarding house for the first few days of their stay and upon their arrival in Oviedo should go to the International Relations Service to register and consult the corresponding database. Monthly rents for a room in a shared flat range from 180 to 220 euros, whereas board and lodging with families costs around 525 €.

3.1.2. University halls of residence

The University of Oviedo has a limited number of places available in Halls of Residence. They are allotted strictly in order of request, and so must be reserved well in advance. Prices vary according to the residence chosen. The price per month per person for an individual room is around 463 €. A double room is around 375 € per person per month. Postgraduate students should pay around 510 € per month. 3.1.3. “San Gregorio” Hall of Residence This building was completely renovated in 1991. It has 59 single rooms and 20 double rooms. All the rooms have their own bathroom, built-in wardrobes and a desk (two desks in the double rooms). The Hall is mixed (both men and women). The Hall has a library, a T.V. and Video room, a computer room and a meeting room. Residents have free access to all the University sports facilities (indoor swimming pool, gymnasium, tennis-court,

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sports complex, running track, football pitch, etc.), the Hall in fact being situated in the midst of these facilities. The Hall has a self-service facility, a cafeteria, and a restaurant, which are open every day of the week. 3.4. Transport

There is a regular bus service between Oviedo and Gijón, with buses every 15 minutes until 22.30. These buses leave from the ALSA bus stations at the following addresses: Oviedo: Avenida de Pepe Cosmen s/n, 33001 Oviedo (near the railway station) Gijón: C/ de Llanes s/n. Ticket offices in C/ de Ribadesella s/n 33207 Gijon Web page: www.alsa.es The towns of the different faculties of the University of Oviedo- Oviedo, Gijón and Mieres – are also connected by train. You can consult timetables and prices on the following webpage: www.renfe.es

Urban Transport in Oviedo (TUA) Students registered at the University of Oviedo can take advantage of the cheaper-priced student travel cards. To get this discount, students should buy their cards at the T.U.A. office in the Bus Station, or in any tobacconist’s or kiosk in the city. 3.5. Food Although the University of Oviedo does not have dining halls, faculties and University schools have cafeterias which offer sandwiches, rolls, and hot dishes for between 3.5€ and 5.5€. Near to the faculties and in the centre of town there

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are numerous restaurants that offer a wide range of Asturian dishes from approximately 6€.

3.6. Sports facilities

The “Vicerrectorado de Extensión Universitaria, Cultura y Deportes” is responsible for the promotion, organization and development of sports activities in the University of Oviedo. Its aim is to provide the University Community (staff, students, and administrative personnel) with the opportunity to do a variety of sports, as well as promote various aspects of physical education and sport in general. The sports facilities may be reserved in the Sports Section Office. Those wishing to use the facilities should belong to the University Community and pay the corresponding quota in order to be admitted into the various courses and activities. These include, among others: Aerobics, Keep Fit Classes, Weight Training, Yoga, Swimming, Canoeing, Sailing, Skiing, Mountaineering, Ballroom Dancing, Climbing, Football, Athletics, Fencing, Diving, Tennis and Judo. 3.7. Other information For free internet access, in each Faculty or School there are rooms with computers available for academic or personal activities, depending on the rules of the centre. On each campus the students registered must show their university cards to the person responsible for the computer lab. Please consult the official Faculty or School website for schedule and conditions of use. On our website users can access Uniovi Directo, which is a series of services available from a browser that allows

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people access to information and to certain processes related to teaching and to communication. The main aim is to facilitate the training and preparation of students in an environment which is flexible and adaptable to their needs. Our Virtual Campus has an ample educational offer that includes subjects of first, second, and third cycle, as well as University Extension, Summer, Postgraduate, or Own Degree courses. The Library of the University of Oviedo is a support service for lecturing and research, and is composed of all the bibliographical and document collection of the University: it comprises the Central Library and the libraries to be found in the various campuses, departmental areas in the Faculties, in Higher Technical Schools and other University Schools, and in University Institutes. The Library is used by all members of the University Community, both lecturers and researchers as well as students and administrative staff.

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4. Contact Information

For information concerning the matters of studies please contact the coordinator of The Erasmus Mundus Master of Science in Marine Biodiversity and Conservation (EMBC) at University of Oviedo, contact José Luis Acuña. (acuna@uniovi.es)

or find more information at : www.uniovi.es

José Luis Acuña +34 98 5349117

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1. Introduction “The Baltic sea is a quite unique place and most of their study

material is from Baltic sea research. Courses are intensive,

Professors are friendly, so students have the opportunity to

discuss. The Coordinator is serious about students’ stay in

Lithuania and living is not very expensive.”

1.1. The city Klaipėda – the third biggest town of Lithuania situated in the Western part of the country, with the population of 183,000 inhabitants. The town has exceptional geopolitical and economical importance to the country as it is the only port town on the Baltic Sea with the ice – free port, which connects the principal sea and land routes from East to West. Klaipėda is also known as one of the most touristic places of Lithuania, especially during the summertime, because of its beaches, beautiful landscapes of the Curonian Spit, Sea Museum and much more. Traditional Jazz and Sea Festivals attract a lot of visitors not only from Lithuania but from foreign countries as well. More information about Klaipėda, its history, culture and more you can find here: www.klaipeda.lt . Lithuania - one of the three Baltic States (the others two are Latvia and Estonia). Situated on the Eastern cost of the Baltic Sea, Lithuania is being called the geographical centre

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of Europe. Modern world knows Lithuania as a young country which was established only after the fall of Soviet Union. But official history of Lithuania started in early XI century. Due to the historical circumstances, the name of Lithuania several times had disappeared and arisen to the political map of the world.

1.2. The University Klaipėda University was established in 1991. The University is an autonomous, state educational and research institution of Lithuanian Republic. There are about 9500 students, 700 academical and 600 administrative staff. Klaipėda University prepares highly qualified professionals in biomedical, physical, humanitarian, social, technology sciences and art areas while offering wide range of study Programs at undergraduate, graduate and postgraduate

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levels. Klaipėda University administers fundamental and applied research, is engaged in educative, cultural, consultative, experimental activities and meets the unique requirements of Lithuania as a maritime state. Klaipėda University is one of the youngest among Lithuanian universities; nevertheless, it is the only marine science oriented university in Lithuania. The marine research at the University of Klaipėda is mostly oriented towards the brackish water ecology in the range of 0-8 PSU, specifically Baltic Sea, as it differs from the real oceanic environment. Most of the teachers from the Klaipėda University in the ERASMUS MUNDUS Program belong to the Coastal Research and Planning Institute (www.corpi.ku.lt), the research and education unit within the KU. It focuses on fundamental and applied scientific research: experimental analysis and modelling of the coastal ecosystems; environmental impact assessment, environmental monitoring, development of scientific background for sustainable development, land planning and ecosystem remediation. EMBC Courses at Klaipeda University: Aquatic invasion ecology; Aquatic microbiological processes; Coastal ecology; Coastal zone and sustainable tourism; Coastal Zone Management; Cultural history of Baltic Sea Region; Ecological informatics; Ecology of fresh and brackish waters; Ecology of marine landscapes and habitats; Ecosystem dynamics; Environmental impact assessment; Fisheries biology and aquaculture; Hydrobotany and algology; Marine hydrogeochemistry; Mathematical models in ecology; Native language; Oceanology; Pollution prevention of marine ecosystems;

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Preparation of research proposal; Productivity of marine ecosystems; Spatial analysis of coastal lands. More information about the content of the courses you can find on the website and in the vademecum with the course lists.

2. Obligatory Requirements 2.1. Visa and Residence permit Temporary Residence Permit (for non EU/EEA citizens) International students from non EU/EEA countries coming for studies in Lithuania are required to have the temporary residence permit. It takes up to 6 months to get the temporary residence permit. However students may get visa D (national visa) for the period until the decision for the permit will be made. The decision on the issue of visa D shall be made within 10 days after the receipt of application. All the documents should be submitted to the nearest diplomatic mission or consular institution of the Republic of Lithuania. The documents necessary to submit for Temporary residence permit 1. University letter requesting temporary residence permit (Letter of mediation, which will be sent to you by Klaipėda University). 2. The letter of acceptance (the document will be sent to you by Klaipėda University). 3. Application for temporary residence permit filled by student.

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4. A passport and its copy. 5. 3 photos (passport size). 6. Proofs of sufficient means of support (at least 400 Litas per month, 1€ = 3,45 Litas) 7. Adequate medical insurance valid in Lithuania. This document must be submitted upon receiving notification from Migration Department about decision to issue a Temporary residence permit. 8. Proof of accommodation (the document will be sent to you by Klaipėda University) The documents necessary to submit for visa D 1. Completed application for visa. 2. 1 photo (passport size) 3. Valid passport 4. Health insurance valid in Lithuania It is advisable to contact the embassy for necessary information before attempting to get temporary residence permit and visa D or web pages: www.urm.lt or www.migracija.lt. Full list of Lithuanian Embassies: http://www.urm.lt Note: Letter of mediation and proof of accommodation are written in Lithuanian. Registration within Lithuania (for EU citizens) All students, EU citizens, after the registration at the Migration Office are required to declare the place of residence at a Seniūnija (local district authority). For the registration at the Migration Office the following documents are necessary: 1. A valid passport (or ID card) and its copy, 2. Payment of 10 Litas receipt (payment code 5740), 3. Completed application form.

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4. Proofs of sufficient means of support (at least 400 Lt per month). 5. EU medical insurance card. 6. Letter of mediation given to you by Klaipėda University. 7. Copy of Rector’s order confirming your acceptance at the university as a student. All the documents given to you by University have to be in Lithuanian. The place of residence at a Seniūnija must be declared within 7 days after the registration at Migration Office. Otherwise the fine of 50 Litas might be pending. 2.2. Enrolment at the University During the studies at Klaipeda University student must obtain Klaipeda University Students Identity Card. For this card you have to apply at the Students Union office at Taikos pr. 30. You will need: pasport and 21 Litas. The card will be issued for you in 10-20 days. This card will alow you to use Klaipeda University library recaurces. When traveling in Lithuania, with student card only train and city bus are subject to 50 % discount. Some companies offer a discount on long-distance bus ticket. By showing this card you will be able to participate in the University festivals and other events. 2.3. Bank account There is a large variety of banks in Klaipèda. You can easily open a Lithuanian bank account where monthly you will receive your scholarship.

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2.4. Health Insurance When you visit Lithuania, please hold with you one of these documents confirming your entitlement to reimbursement of health care services: • European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) • Provisional Replacement Certificate (PRC) If you have EHIC, you are entitled to necessary medical care services which are free of charge in the health care institutions belonging to the Lithuanian National Health System. For the ancillary medical care services and for pri-vate medical care services (private clinics, private doctors or other medical institutions, such as dentists) you will have to cover all the expenses by yourself and these expenses will be not reimbursed. Information for persons coming from other countries than European Union and Liechtenstein, Norway and Island, and Switzerland, and for person who are not insured in EU and Liechtenstein, Norway and Island, and Switzerland: Please, insure your health privately before you come to Lithuania. With the scholarship there is a medical insurance included. EMBC students with an ERASMUS MUNDUS scholarship have insurance coverage by the ERASMUS MUNDUS Program. They will receive their insurance cards in the coordinator’s office

3. Facilities and Practical Information

3.1. Arrival in Klaipèda By ferry. One of the possibilities to come to Klaipėda –

using the ferry lines. There are direct connections to

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Klaipėda from Kiel (Germany), Sassnitz (Germany) and Karlshamn (Sweden). For the prices and schedules of the ferries you can look here: www.dfdslisco.lt . By plain. Palanga International Airport is the nearest

airport to Klaipėda – only 27 kilometres from Klaipėda town centre.

There are direct flights to Palanga from Copenhagen (Denmark), Moscow (Russia), Oslo (Norway) and Riga (Latvia). For more information and flight schedules you can look here: www.palanga-airport.lt . Other international airports of Lithuania: Vilnius International Airport. For more information about the flights you can look here: www.vilnius-airport.lt. Kaunas International Airport. For more information about the flights you can look here: www.kaunasair.lt. By bus. International bus lines connect Klaipėda with the

majority of cities in Europe, Russia and Scandinavia. For more information see: www.klap.lt.

3.2. Cost of living In comparison with Western European countries, Lithuania is not a very expensive country to live in. 1550 Litas (450 Euros) should be enough for a single student to cover the main expenses for accommodation, food, local transport, books, health care and entertainment.

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3.3.Housing facilities For students studying at Klaipėda University we can offer single or double rooms in the dormitory of the University. It would cost from 90 Euros to 120 Euros per month. We can also help to find a flat for rent if only the student would like us to. It would cost from 230 Euros to 600 Euros per month. 3.4. Public transport The main route in Klaipeda is H.Manto , Tiltu and Taikos streets. H.Manto, Tiltu and Taikos str. are connected and they form one long route. The main transport goes through this route. Almost all buses and minibuses goes through these streets. If you want to get to the centre, the old town and the University Campus from the dormitory by bus you should find the bus stop in Taikos street. There are also small minibuses which are loved by domestic public, they have a long yellow lines on their sides. Even although buses operate until 22:00 there’s no problem as minibuses work 24 hours per day. The minibuses travel almost the same routes as the regular buses but they run more often. If you want to go by minibus you just have to vote for it. It will stop if it has any free places. To get off, ask the driver to stop. Minibus prices : 06:00 - 23:00 1.7 Litas, 23:00 - 06:00 2 Litas. 3.5. Food and drinks There is canteen on each faculty of Klaipeda University. The meals there are much cheaper than else in the city.

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In the city there are a lot of cafeteria and restaurants. It is up to you what meal you prefer. Lithuanians like to eat good, tasty and filling foods. The tradition of eating well is inherited from the ancestors who would say, “he who eats well, works well”. One of the oldest and most fundamental staple food was and is rye bread (rugine duona). It is eaten every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Potatoes have become Lithuania’s second bread, an essential starch staple and are eaten throughout the year. Many delicious, tasty dishes are made with potatoes. They are eaten alone or as an accompaniment to a main course of soup, meat, fish, mushrooms, eggs and dairy products. The most popular potato dishes are “zeppelins”, potato sausages, potato casserole and pancakes. “Zeppelins” (cepelinai) is the most famous national food. It is popular among Lithuanians all over the world. Kugelis (a baked potato pudding) is also very popular. Lithuanian recipes reflect the diversity of potatoes. Soup is eaten every day, too. Rich soups are served for lunch. Most popular soups are sauerkraut, beet and sorrel, with smoked meat as the base. Meat cooked in soup is often eaten as a second course. Most soups are served with bread or potatoes. In summer, cold beet soup with hot potatoes is very popular, as are cold sweet soups made with berries, fruit and tiny dumplings.

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4. Contact information

For information concerning the matters of studies please contact the coordinator of The Erasmus Mundus Master of Science in Marine Biodiversity and Conservation (EMBC) at Klaipėda University Renata Pilkaitytė (e-mail: renata@corpi.ku.lt, ph.: +370 46 398 849). For information concerning the matters of practical issues (visa, accommodation, tutors) please contact International Program’s Coordinator Sandra Vaitkutė (e-mail: sandra.vaitkute@ku.lt, ph.: +370 46 398 953). The contacts of Klaipėda Universities International Relations Office: Herkaus Manto Str. 84, LT—92294 Klaipėda , Lithuania E-mail: trs@ku.lt Ph.: +370 46 397 950 Fax: +370 46 398 952 Website: www.ku.lt

Renata Pilkaitytė

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1. Introduction “Being able to travel between 3 different marine stations

(coupled with the possibility of experiencing different types of

teaching and meeting many people) is a really fruitful and

enriching experience.”

1.1. The university

The University of Paris 6 (also called University Pierre and Marie Curie) is the former “Science Faculty” of the University of Paris (La Sorbonne). Professors in Marine Biology at the University of Paris, who needed field stations to collect living organisms for their research, built in the late 19th century, many Marine Stations nearby different marine environments characterized by their high diversity. The University of Paris 6 still owns 3 marine stations, the Biological Research Station in Roscoff, on the coast of the Channel Sea, and the Marine Research Stations in Banyuls sur Mer and in Villefranche sur Mer, on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. The main campus is located in the 5th District of Paris, which is the historic center for faculties and Schools. Three major laboratories of the campus are devoted to oceanography, the LOCEAN, studying physical oceanography and biogeochemistry, the BOME, studying the link between the biology of marine organisms and the functioning of marine ecosystems, and the SAE, devoted to the study of adaptation and evolution of marine organisms.

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The 9 laboratories of the three marine stations and the 3 laboratories on the main campus, maintaining 3 large-scale permanent observation sites, 3 boats and a diving center are grouped in a unique structure called Centre des Sciences de la Mer. With nearly 900 persons working in different field of Oceanography, the University of Paris 6 is one of the biggest academic research structures for Marine Sciences in France. The 3rd semester is organized in 4 Teaching Units periods, from the beginning of September to the end of January, which allow students to move from one marine station to another. Each of the TU periods is based on series of courses on one particular topic. All the courses of one TU are taking place in one of the three Marine Stations. The topic has to be chosen first, independently from the Marine station. 4 periods give opportunities to visit at least two Marine Stations, and two different types of Marine Environments; this is the richness of our program. 1.2. The Marine stations

The three Marine Stations, where all the EMBC courses are taking place, are more than simple field stations but are real campuses. They are three of the four Oceanographic Observatories of the National Institute for Universe Sciences (INSU/CNRS). All facilities for integrated research and teaching are available. EMBC Courses at the University of Paris (field stations): Bacterial diversity and ocean biogeochemistry; Diversity of physiological constraints and adaptations in marine ecosystems; Ecological quality of coastal ecosystems; Functioning of coastal Mediterranean ecosystems;

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Functioning of tidal littoral and coastal ecosystems; Geographic Information systems and remote sensing of the environment; Marine biodiversity: measurements, patterns, human threats and conservation; Merging of population genetics and ecology to study natural populations; Methods and instrumentation in Oceanography; Modeling applications and marine conservation; Modeling of marine environments; Multivariate analyses for marine ecosystems; Phytoplankton evolution and Ocean biogeochemistry ; Preparation of research proposal; Response of pelagic ecosystems to environmental changes; Chemical contaminants; Extreme environments and Deep-Sea ecosystems; French language for Foreign students. More information about the content of the courses you can find on the website or in the vademecum. Check schedule compatibility at http://www.obs-vlfr.fr/oem.

Banyuls sur Mer www.obs-banyuls.fr The Observatoire Océanologique de Banyuls sur Mer (OOB) The Observatoire Océanologique de Banyuls sur Mer (OOB) is located on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea with a short continental shelf and deep Canyons at proximity. It provides the opportunity to work on many oceanic structures from coastal to deep-sea ecosystems. The OOB is a research center of the French National Research Center (CNRS). It is mostly devoted to studies in marine biodiversity, from virus, unicellular organisms to large metazoans, from coastal to deep sea habitats, from gene to ecosystems. The 3 main tasks of the OOB are teaching in marine sciences, researches in oceanography, and long-term observations of the marine ecosystems. About 140 scientists, engineers,

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technicians and students work at the OOB. Teaching facilities (computers, laboratories or lectures) and a well-equipped library are available for students. Internet accesses, including WiFi, are available. The OOB is also a center for scientific diving and the coast is amazing to explore. In 1973, the laboratory has promoted the first Marine Protected Area in France, which is used for scientific studies about marine bioconservation. General Information: www.banyuls-sur-mer.com Banyuls sur Mer is a small town on the French Catalogne coast, close to Perpignan (30 kms) and to the Spanish border (10 kms). It is a wine growing region and it is surrounding by the foothill of the Pyreneans Mountains and vineyards on terraces. Bakeries, groceries and small shops are downtown (10 mn walk from the OOB). A supermarket is at short distance, 20 mn walk from the OOB. Banyuls sur Mer is also a beach town active only from April to October, however lots of activities can occupy those who like nature (hiking, climbing, canyoning, ski in winter, …) or the excitement of the big town of Barcelona (2h from Banyuls, by train or car).

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How to reach? You can reach Banyuls sur Mer by plane (Perpignan Airport or Girona Airport), by train (SNCF, train station in Banyuls sur Mer) or by car. By train, very fast trains (TGV) reach Perpignan from Paris each day. Perpignan airport is well deserved with regular planes to/from Paris each day, but is expensive. Low cost flights are available at Girona Airport. From Perpignan and Girona Airport to Banyuls sur Mer, transportation can be arranged by the OOB (request to accueil@obs-banyuls.fr). Several trains connect Perpignan to Banyuls. By car, Highways connect Perpignan to Montpellier, Toulouse and Spain.

Roscoff www.sb-roscoff.fr The Station Biologique de Roscoff (SBR) The Station Biologique de Roscoff (SBR) is a research center of the French National Research Center (CNRS). The 3 main tasks of the SBR are teaching in marine sciences, researches in marine biological oceanography, and longterm observations of the marine ecosystems. Located on the North Coast of the French Brittany, on the English Channel, which presents a high tide regime, the SBR has in surrounding areas, an exceptional diversity of biotopes and habitats, for most of them accessible by foot during low tide, and inhabited by a wide diversity of species, animals (3000 sp.) and plants (700 sp.). About 200 scientists, engineers, technicians and students work on a wide range of topics. Teaching facilities are specifically devoted to computers, laboratories or lectures. Internet accesses, including WiFi, are available. General Information: www.roscofftourisme.com

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Roscoff (Celtic name is Rosko) is a town located in the county called “Finistère”, in the French Britannic region. It is today a lively seaside town. Habitants are called “Roscovites”. The celtic culture is important and lots of activities around it are organized, either by the Biological Station, or by the town. From the harbour, ferries connect Roscoff with english coast (Plymouth) and, a connection is available with the nearby Island of Batz (Île-de-Batz or in celtic Enez Vaz). How to reach? You can reach Roscoff by plane (Brest-Guipavas Airport), by train (SNCF, train station in Roscoff) or by car. By train, very fast trains (TGV) reach Brest from Paris each day, and a regional train connect to Roscoff, via the town of Morlaix. Guipavas airport is well deserved with regular planes to/from Paris each day. By car, Highways connect Morlaix to Brest and Rennes.

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Villefranche Sur Mer www.obs-vlfr.fr Observatoire Océanologique de Villefranche (OOV) Located on the French Riviera, near Nice, the Observatoire Océanologique de Villefranche (OOV) has a particular coastal location with no continental shelf. It provides the opportunity to work on open ocean structures and deep-sea fauna easily. The OOV is a research center of the French National Research Center (CNRS). It is the most complete campus for marine biology and oceanographic researches in France with thematic in physics, marine chemistry, marine biology, ecology and geosciences. The 3 main tasks of the OOV are teaching in marine sciences, researches in oceanography, and long-term observations of the marine ecosystems. In the field of oceanography, about 170 scientists, engineers, technicians and students work on a wide range of topics, from viruses to whole marine ecosystem studies. Teaching facilities are specifically devoted to computers, laboratories or lectures. Internet accesses, including WiFi, are available.

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General Information: www.villefranche-sur-mer.com Villefranche sur Mer is a small town on the French Riviera, close to Nice (5 kms) and to the Italian border (10 kms). Bakeries, groceries and others small shops are downtown (10 mn walk from the OOV). Supermarkets are located at Nice. From February to November, lots of activities occurred either in Villefranche sur Mer or around (Nice, Monaco, etc.). Villefranche and its surrounds are squeezed between the sea and the French Alps. Sea sports, hiking, canyoning, etc. are in very close proximity. How to reach? You can reach Villefranche sur Mer by plane (Nice Airport, then buses or taxi to Villefranche sur Mer), by train (SNCF, train station of Villefranche sur Mer) or by car. By train, a very fast train (TGV) reaches Nice from Paris each day. Nice airport is very well deserved: international traffic, low cost companies and hourly planes to Paris are available. Several trains and buses connect Nice to Villefranche. By car, Highways connect Nice to Marseille and Italy.

2. 2nd Year Organization in Paris

2.1. Visa Students are required to have a visa before they enter France, and a residence permit is delivered by an administration called OFII after you register to the University. The administration of the University of Paris 6 provides you with an invitation letter (attesting that you

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are going to be register at the UMPC and that the University will provide you Housing facilities in the Marine Stations), and helps you to complete and send your application. 2.2. Residence permit

A residence permit in France is called a carte de séjour.

To obtain one, you must apply to your local préfecture, the capital city for a département, the French administrative region responsible for local administration of policing, laws and regulations. (For example, this is also where driving licences are processed.) The service that delivers residence permits is called le service des étrangers.

In the provinces, the préfecture will be situated in the administrative capital of your département. If you live in a rural area, you can often process your application to the préfecture through the local town hall, mairie.

In Paris, you must apply to the préfecture de police de Paris.

Nationals from outside the EU

The process here is complicated and may depend upon particular agreements between France and the country concerned.

Generally speaking, however, a non-EU national who wishes to stay in France for more than three months to work, study or reside without employment, must already have acquired

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a long-stay visa (visa de long séjour) before arriving in France.

If you don't obtain such a visa before you get here, it won't be possible to later apply for a residence permit.

You must make your application in person. Start by asking at your préfecture or country's embassy for precise details of the documents you must produce, but in most cases you will need the following:

• A valid identity card or passport

• Three passport-size photos, photos d'identité

• A recent document providing proof of where you live (this can be a utilities or rent receipt), justificatif de domicile

• Proof of adequate resources or in the case of a student, proof of enrolment in an educational establishment recognised by the French Ministry of Education.

• A medical certificate issued by a French doctor; check with your prefecture for a reference to a doctor or a clinic authorised to provide such certificates or, likewise, contact the French consulate in your country to find an approved doctor • A full translation (from an registered translator, traducteur assermenté) of medical insurance

After the application is approved, you will receive a récipissé de carte de séjour, or a kind of receipt that will proof your legal residency while you're waiting for the real thing; you

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will be notified to appear in person at the préfecture when the real card is printed and asked to exchange the récipissé for your permanent card.

Once you have the récipissé and then the permanent card, note that you're supposed to always carry it in public just as a French person always carries the carte d'identité; the police have the right to stop you at any time and ask for your identity papers.

2.3. Enrolment at university It is mandatory for all students to register on the main campus in Paris. Therefore, EMBC students who choose UPMC are required to come on the Parisian campus for 3 to 4 days at the beginning of the 3rd semester (early September). A cheap housing solution is provided for this occasion. General information meetings are organized and a central help for the registration is provided. After the administrative and pedagogic registrations are completed, students are moving to the first marine station of their choice. A detailed guide for travel and accommodations in Marine stations is provided by the administration during the registration, along with local contacts. Outlines are provided below.

2.4. Bank account

A foreigner moving to France may open a bank account. Most banks have a variety of account types, with day-to-day banking usually being handled through a current account

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(compte à vue, also called a compte de dépôt à vue or a compte chèque).

These documents are needed to open an account:

EU citizens: Proof of identity (a valid passport or ID card)

Non-EU citizens: Proof of residence (Carte de séjour)

Proof of a French address: a utility bill, rental agreement or property deeds

Proof of earnings or status: Contract of employment/proof of earnings/proof of status (example: a student card)

Reference: from other banks where accounts are held (usually only required for loans and overdrafts)

In some cases, a birth certificate

Opening an account can be done in a day and methods of making payments (cash cards and cheque books) will usually arrive within a week to ten days of the account being opened.

2.5. Health insurance Students are required to be affiliate to a social security program or to have an insurance covering cost for medical care. They have to be insured for their person and for causing damage to others. EMBC students with an ERASMUS MUNDUS scholarship have insurance coverage by the ERASMUS MUNDUS Program. They will receive their insurance cards from the EMBC coordinator’s office

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3. Facilities and practical information

3.1. Housing facilities In Banyuls Sur Mer you can stay in double or triple rooms. The rooms are accommodated with a table, wash – hand basin and a shower. There is wifi internet. There are blankets, sheets and towels provided and they clean daily the room. There is a laundry which you can use for free, a room with TV and a kitchen with basic equipment for cooking. The room costs around 15O euro a month. You can take breakfast for 2,50 euro, lunch and dinner for 3,50 euro. In Roscoff there are single or double rooms available. The rooms are accommodated with a table, wash-hand basin, shower and a toilet. Daily they come and clean the room. There are sheets and towels available. There is a equipped kitchen you can use, a laundry ( washer/dryer: 2 euro), a room with TV and games and there is WIFI internet. The rent per month is around 300 euro a month (breakfast inc.), lunch for 6 euro. Villefranche sur Mer offers 1 single room, 9 double rooms, 1 triple room and a dorm with 11 beds. The rooms are accommodated with a table, wash-hand basin, shower and a toilet. Daily they come and clean the room. There are sheets and towels available. There is a equipped kitchen you can use, a laundry ( washer/dryer: 1 euro), a room with TV and games and there is WIFI internet. The rent per month is around 150 euro a month. You can get a breakfast for 2,50 euro a month and lunch for 3,50 euro.

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3.2. Practical Information: Banyuls sur Mer : Wifi is accessible anywhere and a computing room with 15 computers is accessible from 6.30 am to 11.00 pm everyday (except when there are courses). The restaurant offers the possibility to choose your menu in advance, mostly for those who are vegetarian or present allergies. The dinner is served only if more than 3 persons subscribed. During holidays, the PhD student facilities will be open and EMBC students will benefit from rooms or apartments according to the number of them who will stay. Roscoff : For using the common facilities, a subscription to the « Association des jeunes chercheurs » is required. For dinner in the week-end, students prepare their own meals in the common equipped kitchen. The marine station is closed between Christmas and New Year day. Villefranche : The restaurant (a self service) is managed by an Association des Amis de la Station Marine. An adhesion fee (4.00 €) is required to buy restaurant's tickets. Breakfasts and lunches are served from Monday to Friday, except on holidays. The menu (4 services) is chosen between 2-3 items for each service. During the holidays, students can stay at the marine station, but there is no room service and the common facilities are used for preparing food.

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4. Contact information

For information concerning the matters of studies please contact the coordinator of The Erasmus Mundus Master of Science in Marine Biodiversity and Conservation (EMBC) at University of Paris contact Jean-Marc Guarini (email: guarini@obs-banyuls.fr) Eric Thiébaut (thiebaut@sb-roscoff.fr) and Laure Mousseau (laure.mousseau@obs-vlfr.fr)

Jean-Marc Guarini Eric Thiébaut Laure Mousseau

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Colophon

Editorial coordinator:

Magda Vincx & Tim Deprez

EMBC secretariat, Krijgslaan 281/S8, 9000 Gent, Belgium.

Lay out and proof reading:

An Espeel

Photography:

EMBC students and coordinators

January 2010 - Print run: 150 copies