mardi 3 juin 2008

Research Assistant

Hiring Organization:
Disney's Animal Kingdom

Date Posted:
2008-05-30

Position Description:
Position Description: Assist in the operation of the Animal Acoustic Communication and Behavior Program at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Florida, U.S.A. The successful candidate will be trained in acoustical methods and behavioral analyses as needed, and support acoustic research on rodents, primates and the African elephant.

Project Description: Researchers in the Wildlife Tracking Center at Disney’s Animal Kingdom are conducting long-term projects investigating the vocal communication system of the African elephant and the Key Largo Wood Rat, and the effects of ambient noise on primates in zoos. The successful candidate will provide support for these and other projects as needed, including data collection, and analysis of digitized acoustical data and analysis of behavior from video.

Term: This is a one-year contract appointment administered through the University of Central Florida beginning in September 2008. The position may be renewed for one additional year.

Qualifications/Experience:
Major Duties and Responsibilities
* Assists in data collection and data processing
* Analyzes vocalization and behavioral data according to established methodologies
* Staffs the Wildlife Tracking Center, which is in view of park guests, and actively participates in Guest Interactions as assigned
*Assists in the development of interactive, interpretive experiences with guests in partnership with the scientific and education staff


Qualifications
* M.A. / M.S. in animal behavior or related field, or B.A. / B.S. in animal behavior field with research experience in animal behavior
* Strong analytical skills, detail-oriented
* Previous involvement in research on animal behavior / communication
* Excellent written and oral communication skills for both formal and informal audiences
* Ability to work with others in a fast paced, team oriented atmosphere

Desired qualifications
* Research experience on vocal communication, acoustic analysis, or passive acoustic monitoring
* Knowledge of statistical analyses and SPSS or STATISTICA software

Salary/funding:
Commensurate with experience

Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):
n/a

Term of Appointment:
1 - 2 years

Application Deadline:
July 11, 2008

Comments:
Send cover letter, resume, transcripts, and names and contact information for 3 references to:

Joseph M. Soltis, Ph.D.
Education & Science, Disney’s Animal Kingdom
email: Joseph.Soltis@disney.com

Contact Information:
Joseph Soltis
1200 N Savannah Circle E
Bay Lake, FL 32830
USA

E-mail Address:
joseph.soltis@disney.com