Capuchin Monkey Caretaker and Volunteer Coordinator

Hiring Organization:
Communidad Inti Wara Yassi

Date Posted:
2009-06-25

Position Description:
Inti Wara Yassi is an organisation which operates several wildlife refuges in Bolivia. The refuge depends on the support of nonpermanent volunteers who come from all over the world for a minimum of two weeks.
The main goal of the wildlife refuge is to rehabilitate the animals. The refuge provides these animals with the respect they deserve and works hard to ensure the utmost freedom possible for each individual animal, when rehabilitation is not possible. Our philosophy is that no wild animal should be abused or kept as a pet.

At present we are looking for a person to manage the area known as the ´monkey mirador´in Parque Machia. The mirador is an area containing approximately forty Capuchin monkeys (Cebus libindosus). There is a mix of free-ranging monkeys, and corded monkeys that are in the process of rehabilitation.

We are looking for a flexible, dedicated and highly motivated person. The ideal candidate will be a good communicator, with strong leadership abilities and lots of patience. They must also have the ability to cope well under stress and live in a developing country.

The duties of the volunteer will include:
-Supervising short term volunteers,
-Liaising with the veterinary and management staff of the park,
-Observing the behaviour and health conditions of the animals,
-General duties such as cleaning, feeding and maintenance.
-Training of new long-term volunteers to ensure continuity and stability for the animals.

Qualifications/Experience:
We work mostly in English with the short term volunteers, and in Spanish with the management and veterinary staff, so at least conversational ability in these languages is essential.
The work is physically and mentally demanding so volunteers must be prepared for a challenge.

Desired:
- A degree in biology, ethology, animal behaviour or a related field, or be in the process of obtaining a related qualification.
- Experience working with, and managing animals, particularly primates.
- Experience living/working in a developing country with a tropical climate.

The most important qualification is that the applicant be highly motivated and passionate about animals. All serious applicants will be considered.

Salary/funding:
No funding is available for this position.

Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):
Basic accommodation will be provided, as well as breakfast and lunch. All flights, visa arrangements, vaccinations, insurance etc. are the responsibility of the volunteer.

Term of Appointment:
Minimum time is six months.

Application Deadline:
This is an open position and applicants are always welcome.

Comments:
See our website for more information on the organisation and life at Parque Machia.

Contact Information:
Nena Balthazar
Parque Machia, Villa Tunari
Cochabamba,, Chapare
Bolivia

Telephone Number:
00591-44136572

Fax Number:
00591-44136572

Website:
http://www.intiwarayassi.org

E-mail Address:
nena@intiwarayassi.org

Field assistant for gelada research project in Ethiopia

Hiring Organization:
University of Michigan (Gelada Research Project)

Date Posted:
2009-06-24

Position Description:
I am looking for a voluntary assistant to help me run field-based experiments and collect behavioral data on gelada monkeys (Theropithecus gelada). I am conducting postdoctoral research for the University of Michigan, working in the Simien Mountains National Park in Ethiopia. My research is focused on the cognition and communication of the gelada, a very vocal and social primate endemic to the highlands of Ethiopia. The work is stimulating and varied, ranging from focal data collection and group counts to vocalization recordings and playback experiments. You will be expected to take part in all aspects of this research, spending 4 – 7 hours in the field every day, and helping out with data management at the research station. Although you will have exciting challenges such as hiking around 10 000 feet above sea level and having to identify 150 individual monkeys, work can also become repetitive and lonely – you will need to be prepared for that.

The geladas are fast-moving terrestrial primates that feed on grass in the Ethiopian highlands. They occur in large bands of up to 700 members and we focus on about 17 harems living in the Simien Mountains National Park. The field site, just outside the small town of Debark, is very remote and we rely on solar power for electricity and a small spring for water. We live close to a village of only 15 people, but are within shouting distance of hundreds of geladas. You can read more about the living conditions and experience of being out in the field at http://www.nature.com/naturejobs/authors/le_Roux_Aliza_2008.html.

Qualifications/Experience:
The ideal candidate will be a highly self-motivated individual able to work under unusually demanding conditions – you will be pushing yourself both physically and mentally on a daily basis. Experience in fieldwork and/or living in a developing country is vital, and you need to have a first degree in Anthropology, Zoology, or another relevant field.
As we are living in a remote area, you must be able to function without much social stimulation, while at the same time knowing how to interact with people that do not share a common language with you. In general, an enthusiastic spirit and the desire to learn more will go a very long way.

Salary/funding:
The assistant is responsible for costs incurred in traveling to & from Ethiopia, including visa fees. While in Ethiopia, a contribution of $10 a day towards living expenses and park fees is expected – I will cover any costs above this.

Term of Appointment:
August 14 - December 14, 2009, with possibility of extension

Application Deadline:
July 20, 2009

Contact Information:
Aliza le Roux
530 Church St
Ann Arbor 48104
USA

Website:
http://sitemaker.umich.edu/thore.bergman/aliza_le_roux

E-mail Address:
aleroux@umich.edu

Technical Research Assistant

Hiring Organization:
Harvard University

Date Posted:
2009-06-28

Position Description:
GENERAL SUMMARY

Works with increasing independence, under general supervision, to execute protocols involving a variety of routine procedures at a professional level, in collaboration with other members of the research team. Responsible for computer based conduct of behavioral studies. Transcribe and analyze data using statistics and graphing software. May be responsible for assisting in the orientation and training new staff. Some weekend work is required.


PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1) Perform experiments, which are moderate to complex. Experiments may include drug self-administration studies, drug discrimination studies, studies of schedule controlled-responding, studies of drug effects on endocrine measures, and brain imaging studies

2) Transcribe and analyze data with statistics and graphics programs using computer software and prepare weekly reports for supervisors

3) Prepare and administer accurate drug doses from stock solutions, ensure sterile technique, maintain accurate records of drug usage and maintain security of drug supplies

4) Plan, coordinate and schedule tests and procedures in consultation with immediate supervisor

5) Responsible for identifying potential problems in ongoing studies and devising solutions under supervision of immediate supervisor

6) Assist with maintenance of animal health and well-being and maintenance of an orderly work environment; develop, implement and monitor all animal enrichment procedures

7) Responsible for monitoring and maintenance of supplies in accordance with laboratory procedures

8) Assist in preparations for conduct of aseptic surgical procedures.

9) Assists in orientation and training of new employees in the laboratory.

10) Supervise animal caretaker activities related to assigned projects.

11) Supervise and document implementation of enrichment activities.

12) Performs all other duties as assigned

Qualifications/Experience:
BA or BS in biology, psychology or related field

Good animal handling skills
Good computer literacy
Sound analytical and organizational skills
Good oral and written communication skills
Must be able to logically and effectively structure tasks and set priorities
Ability to identify potential problems and troubleshoot solutions
Demonstrated ability to analyze data statistically and to logically present it

Salary/funding:
40 hours/week
Benefits include full medical and dental coverage,
retirement savings, life insurance

Contact Information:
Jennifer Newman
115 Mill Street
Belmont 02139
USA

E-mail Address:
jnewman@mclean.harvard.edu

Bénévoles

Le laboratoire Ethologie animale et humaine organise la 31ième Conférence Internationale d'Ethologie du 19 au 24 août 2009 à Rennes.

Nous recherchons des bénévoles pour nous aider à l'organisation de cette conférence. Vous trouverez ci-après le lien pour accéder au formulaire d'inscription : http://iec2009.univ-rennes1.fr/OrganisationDatabase.php

En dehors de vos heures de bénévolat, vous pourrez assister librement aux conférences.

POSTDOCTORAL SCHOLARSHIP, BEHAVIORAL ECOLOGY OF SOCIAL INSECTS, BERKELEY, USA

The UC Berkeley Natural History Museums and Department of Environmental Science, Policy and Management at UC-Berkeley are currently seeking one Postdoctoral Scholar in the laboratory of Dr. Neil Tsutsui.
We are seeking a Postdoctoral Scholar to study the behavioral ecology of social insects. Previous work has focused on the genetics, behavior, and chemical ecology of the invasive, Argentine ant (Linepithema humile). In this species, genetic changes during introduction have altered individual behavior and, in turn, the social organization of introduced populations.
These changes have contributed to the Argentine ant's invasive success by promoting the formation of massive "supercolonies" in the introduced range.
Publications from previous research can be downloaded from: http://nature.berkeley.edu/tsutsuilab
Current research topics include the chemical basis of colonymate recognition, population genetics of native and introduced populations, and the development of genomic tools for studies of behavior, learning and memory in Argentine ants and other social insects.
The central focus of the Postdoctoral Scholar’s research will be the structure and function of colonymate recognition systems in the Argentine ant. The Scholar will perform manipulative laboratory experiments to explore the role that social environment and individual experience play in the development of colony identity. The Postdoctoral Scholar will also have opportunities to contribute to ongoing research by using functional genetic, genomic or neurophysiological approaches.
Applicants should have a strong background in one or more of the following
areas: behavioral ecology, chemical ecology, population genetics, genomics and gene expression, and genetics of behavior, learning and memory. Previous experience in insect biology is desirable, but not required. The salary range is between $35,508 - $41,496 or commensurate with experience; generous benefits are included. A start date during early Fall 2009 is preferable. Applicants must have less than five years of post-doctoral service.
Applicants should submit a CV, a brief statement of research interests, copies of relevant publications and/or manuscripts, and contact information for two references. Application materials may be submitted by email or postal mail.
Deadline: by July 15, 2009.
Contact: Dr. Neil D. Tsutsui, email: ntsutsui@nature.berkeley.edu
The University of California, Berkeley is an equal opportunity employer committed to excellence through diversity. Applicants should ask referees to review the UC Berkeley Statement of Confidentially found at:
http://apo.chance.berkeley.edu/evalltr.html

NOUVELLES ANNONCES DE MANIFESTATIONS SCIENTIFIQUES

1) 22 au 24 Juin 2009
Neuroarcheology: presymptomatic architecture and signatures of neurological disorders
La Ciotat, France
http://www.neurosciences.asso.fr/4DLINK1/4DCGI/conf.get?C10400

2) 25 au 27 Juin 2009
2e Congrès sur l'insight et la prise de décision
Poitiers, France
http://www.neurosciences.asso.fr/4DLINK1/4DCGI/conf.get?C10411

3) 28 Juin 2009 - 2 Juillet 2009
9th World Congress of Biological Psychiatry
28 June - 2 July 2009
Paris, France
http://www.neurosciences.asso.fr/4DLINK1/4DCGI/conf.get?C10405

4) 23 au 25 Juillet 2009
Progress in Motor Control VII
Marseille, France
http://www.neurosciences.asso.fr/4DLINK1/4DCGI/conf.get?C10378

5) 8 au 12 Septembre 2009
9th European Meeting ON GLIAL CELLS IN HEALTH AND DISEASE - Glial Cells 2009- Call for symposia
Paris , France
http://www.neurosciences.asso.fr/4DLINK1/4DCGI/conf.get?C10368

6) 15 au 18 Septembre 2009
36e Colloque de la Sté de Neuroendocrinologie

Nice, France
http://www.neurosciences.asso.fr/4DLINK1/4DCGI/conf.get?C10415

7) 16 au 18 Septembre 2009
3e conférence française de Neurosciences Computationnelles, "Neurocomp09"
Bordeaux, France
http://www.neurosciences.asso.fr/4DLINK1/4DCGI/conf.get?C10414

8) 20 au 25 Septembre 2009
ESF Research Conference on Gene Expression to Neurobiology and Behaviour: human brain development and developmental disorders
Sant Feliu de Guixols (Costa B, Spain
http://www.neurosciences.asso.fr/4DLINK1/4DCGI/conf.get?C10416

9) 21 au 26 Septembre 2009
Electrophysiology Summer School in Strasbourg
Strasbourg, France
http://www.neurosciences.asso.fr/4DLINK1/4DCGI/conf.get?C10417

10) 15 au 16 Octobre 2009
International Symposium on Neurorehabilitation
From Basics to Future
Valencia, Spain
http://www.neurosciences.asso.fr/4DLINK1/4DCGI/conf.get?C10410

11) 29 au 30 Octobre 2009
Colloque Maladies Rares et Orphelines
Montpellier, France
http://www.neurosciences.asso.fr/4DLINK1/4DCGI/conf.get?C10412

12) 13 au 16 Décembre 2009
3e Colloque Méditerranéen de Neurosciences
Alexandrie, Egypte
http://www.neurosciences.asso.fr/4DLINK1/4DCGI/conf.get?C10403

13) 24 au 25 Juin 2010
First International Conference on Yawning
Première conférence internationale sur le bâillement
Paris, France
http://www.neurosciences.asso.fr/4DLINK1/4DCGI/conf.get?C10384

14) 11 au 15 Juillet 2010
7th International Congress of Neuroendocrinology (ICN2010)
Rouen, France
http://www.neurosciences.asso.fr/4DLINK1/4DCGI/conf.get?C10392

RECENTES ANNONCES DE LA SOCIETE DES NEUROSCIENCES - Stages et emplois

1) Stage étudiant
Thèse en Neurosciences à Clermont-Ferrand financée par la région - Clermont-Ferrand, France
http://www.neurosciences.asso.fr/4DLINK1/4DCGI/Emplois.get?J11110

2) Contrat à durée indéterminée
Postdoctoral positions: experimental epilepsy - London, UK
http://www.neurosciences.asso.fr/4DLINK1/4DCGI/Emplois.get?J11111

3) Contrat à durée déterminée
Thèse - Nouzilly, France
http://www.neurosciences.asso.fr/4DLINK1/4DCGI/Emplois.get?J11116

4) Stage étudiant
Thèse en Neurosciences à Clermont-Ferrand - Clermont-Ferrand, France
http://www.neurosciences.asso.fr/4DLINK1/4DCGI/Emplois.get?J11113

5) Stage étudiant
Thèse IRMf - Neurosciences Cognitives - Bron, France
http://www.neurosciences.asso.fr/4DLINK1/4DCGI/Emplois.get?J11114

6) Stage étudiant
Thèse de l'Université Paris 6 - Paris, France
http://www.neurosciences.asso.fr/4DLINK1/4DCGI/Emplois.get?J11115

7) Contrat à durée déterminée
technicien - Amiens, France
http://www.neurosciences.asso.fr/4DLINK1/4DCGI/Emplois.get?J11112

Ecotourism and Volunteer Coordinator

Hiring Organization:
CERCOPAN

Date Posted:
2009-06-14

Position Description:
CERCOPAN (Centre for Education, Research and Conservation of Primates and Nature: www.cercopan.org) is recruiting for a Volunteer and Ecotourism Coordinator to start in July 2009. This voluntary position is based at Rhoko, our bush site where we help the Iko Esai community to protect 2400ha of tropical rainforest. The site is home to 60 semi-free ranging forest monkeys, and an array of wildlife including pangolins, wild putty nosed guenons, Mona monkeys, bushbabies, duikers, golden cats and drills.

We are looking for a flexible, sociable, team-player with previous experience managing volunteer and eco-tourism experience. The ideal candidate will be a people person, good at multi-tasking with strong leadership and communication skills. They must also have the ability to cope well under stress and live happily in basic but comfortable forest living conditions.

Duties include:
- Supervising all volunteers and visitors (meet and greet, preparing itineraries, menus, arranging logistics, supervising projects\research tasks, ensuring appropriate staff available, acting as point of contact etc.)
- Financial management of volunteer/tourism budget
- Training/ capacity building for staff involved in tourism (e.g. preparation of meals and accommodation, guided walk training, management of the community centre visitor centre by community members etc.)
- Preparing proposals for eco-tourism development
- Developing and implementing a national advertising strategy for tourism at Rhoko
- Ensuring all volunteer and tourism materials are constantly updated
- Tourism/ Volunteering related PR
- Undertaking research, collecting data and assisting with camp management when cover is required.

Qualifications/Experience:
Essential:
- First Aid certificate or equivalent experience
- University educated, first degree
- Interest in Conservation/Primates
- Physically fit
- Good communication skills
- 4 wheel driving experience (or willingness to take four wheel driving course in UK)

Desired:
- Experience managing volunteers
- Eco-tourism experience
- Work experience in conservation
- Work experience with NGO
- Research experience
- Climbing (tree) experience
- Swimming/life saving skills
- Masters in conservation, biology, ecology, zoology, tourism

Salary/funding:
N/A

Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):
Room and board will be provided for an initial 1 year contract. All flights, visa arrangements, insurance etc. are the responsibility of the volunteer.

Term of Appointment:
1year

Application Deadline:
30/06/09

Contact Information:
Claire Coulson
4 Ishie Lane,
Calabar
Nigeria

Telephone Number:
+234 (0)8060625458

Website:
http://www.cercopan.org

E-mail Address:
claire.coulson@cercopan.org

Rhoko Field Camp Manager

Hiring Organization:
CERCOPAN

Date Posted:
2009-06-14

Position Description:
CERCOPAN (Centre for Education, Research and Conservation of Primates and Nature: www.cercopan.org) is recruiting for a voluntary Rhoko Manager to start in late July/early August 2009. This voluntary position is based at Rhoko, our bush site, where we help the Iko Esai community to protect 2400ha of tropical rainforest. The site is home to 60 semi-free ranging forest monkeys, and an array of wildlife including pangolins, wild putty nosed guenons, Mona monkeys, bushbabies, duikers, golden cats and drills.

We are looking for someone with strong practical skills and a conservation background, preferably with prior experience of project or staff management. The ideal candidate will be patient, hard working, flexible, amicable and dedicated. They must also have the ability to cope well under stress and live happily in basic but comfortable forest living conditions. The forest site is approximately 40 minutes from the nearest village and 2-3 hours from Calabar.

This is an excellent opportunity for those wishing to make a contribution to primate conservation and community development.

Duties:
The Rhoko Manager’s role is to ensure the smooth running of Rhoko Research and Education Centre, with specific responsibility for logistics/maintenance (including buildings, trails, earth roads), overall staff management and administration, community liaison and public relations, environmental education, ecotourism, and coordinating project infrastructure development. The Rhoko Manager works closely with the Director and ensures effective communication between Rhoko and HQ, and between Rhoko and the community.

Qualifications/Experience:
Essential:
- Excellent practical skills (maintenance, mechanical, carpentry, electrics etc)
- Staff management experience
- Applicants must have a degree in ecology, conservation, zoology or development and a Masters Degree in a relevant subject
- Interest in Conservation/Primates
- Physically fit
- Diving licence
- Culturally sensitive
- Good communication and organisational skills
- Ability to commit for 2 years

Desired:
- 4 wheel drive experience
- First aid certificate
- Experience working and living in developing countries
- Budget planning/management experience

Salary/funding:
Modest sterling stipend.

Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):
Provisions: Room, board, national and international flights. Initial visa arrangements, insurance, vaccinations etc. are the responsibility of the volunteer.

Term of Appointment:
2 years

Application Deadline:
30/06/09

Contact Information:
Claire Coulson
4 Ishie Lane,
Calabar
Nigeria

Telephone Number:
+234 (0)8060625458

Website:
http://www.cercopan.org

E-mail Address:
claire.coulson@cercopan.org

Animal Learning and Cognition

We are seeking one PhD student to work with Professor John Pearce in the area of Animal Learning and Cognition. The studentship will be funded by and based in the School of Psychology, Cardiff University. Applicants with an interest in any aspect of animal learning and cognition are welcome to apply, but preference may be given to those with an interest in either associative learning, or spatial learning.

Applicants must have, or expect to obtain, a good upper-second honours degree or equivalent.

The School of Psychology is one of the largest and most successful in the UK. It provides outstanding facilities for studying learning and cognition in animals. (http://www.cf.ac.uk/psych/). The quality of its teaching and research has been recognised in every UK research assessment exercise to date.

Please address any informal enquiries to Professor John Pearce, School of Psychology, Cardiff University. Email PearceJM@cardiff.ac.uk with the subject header ‘studentship’

For an application pack, please contact Nathalie Walters.
Email: WaltersNA1@cardiff.ac.uk Tel: +44(0)29 2087 5381.
Alternatively you can apply online (or download the application form) by going to: http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/for/prospective/pg/apply/sendingapplication/index.html
Please specify in the funding section of the PhD application form that you would like to be considered for the School of Psychology studentship held by Professor Pearce.


Funding Notes
The studentship is for three years and covers UK/EU tuition fees and provides a maintenance allowance of £12,000 per annum. Non-EU students are welcome to apply but they would need to self-fund the difference between UK/EU fees and non-EU overseas fees.

Plus d'infos

Cognition and Memory

We are seeking one PhD student to work with Dr Chris Miles in the area of Cognition and Memory. The studentship is funded by and based in the School of Psychology, Cardiff University. Applicants with an interest in any aspect of human memory are welcome to apply.

The studentship is available from the 1st October 2009. Applicants must have, or expect to obtain, a good upper-second honours degree or equivalent.

The School of Psychology is one of the largest and most successful in the UK. (http://www.cf.ac.uk/psych/). The quality of its teaching and research has been recognised in every UK research assessment exercise to date.

Please address any informal enquiries to Dr Chris Miles, School of Psychology, Cardiff University, email Miles@cardiff.ac.uk with the subject header ‘studentship’.

For an application pack, please contact Nathalie Walters.
Email: WaltersNA1@cardiff.ac.uk Tel: +44 (0)29 20875381
Alternatively you can apply online (or download the application form) by going to: http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/for/prospective/pg/apply/sendingapplication/index.html
Please specify in the funding section of the PhD application form that you would like to be considered for the Cognition and Memory studentship held by Dr Miles.


Funding Notes
The 3-year studentship covers UK/EU tuition fees and provides a tax-free maintenance allowance of £12,000 per annum. Non-EU students are welcome to apply but would need to self-fund the difference between UK/EU fees and Non-EU overseas fees.

Plus d'infos

Mécanismes comportementaux et neurobiologiques de l’établissement des préférences et aversions alimentaires chez le porc :applications en alimentation

Titre de la thèse : Mécanismes comportementaux et neurobiologiques de l’établissement des préférences et aversions alimentaires chez le porc : applications en alimentation animale et humaine.
Unité/équipes encadrantes :
Unité Mixte de Recherche Systèmes d’Elevage, Nutrition Animale et Humaine (UMR1079 SENAH), Equipe « Elevage, environnement et bien-être » (PHASE), Equipe « Contrôle de l’ingestion » (ALIMH).
Nom des responsables scientifiques : M.C. Salaün (département PHASE, IR1 HDR Directeur de thèse)
D. Val-Laillet (département ALIMH, CR1 Co-directeur)
Contacts : Marie-Christine.Salaun@rennes.inra.fr, David.Val-Laillet@rennes.inra.fr
Contexte socio-économique et scientifique : L’étude des mécanismes d’établissement des préférences et aversions alimentaires intéresse à la fois les secteurs de l’alimentation animale et humaine et a des implications significatives dans le domaine de la santé humaine. En élevage, l’introduction d’aliments nouveaux ou de transition est souvent à l’origine d’aversions qui ont des répercussions négatives sur les niveaux d’ingestion, les performances et l’état de confort ou la santé des animaux. A l’inverse, la distribution d’aliments à l’appétence accrue ou aux propriétés organoleptiques préférées permet d’optimiser la nutrition animale et de faciliter les phases de transition (Meunier-Salaün et Picard, 1996 ; Villalba et Provenza, 2000). En santé humaine, l’explosion épidémiologique des troubles des conduites alimentaires et des pathologies nutritionnelles comme l’obésité justifie de porter un intérêt croissant aux mécanismes qui sous-tendent la mise en place des préférences et aversions alimentaires (Bellisle, 1999, Corcos, 2000). Le développement des préférences aux différents stades de la vie et l’apparition de conduites alimentaires à risque, tout comme l’émergence d’aversions (e.g. dans le contexte du patient anorexique ou cancéreux sous chimiothérapie ; Jakubowicz, 2005), sont autant d’enjeux du bien-être animal et de santé publique pour lesquels une connaissance approfondie des mécanismes comportementaux et neurobiologiques est nécessaire à l’évolution des soins et recommandations. L’objectif de cette thèse est donc d’enrichir nos connaissances scientifiques en la matière, sur une espèce animale à la fois sujet et modèle d’étude, et de rendre valorisable le produit de cette recherche dans les domaines de l’alimentation et de la santé animales et humaines.
Sujet : De par les nombreuses similarités qu’il possède avec l’homme en termes de physiologie digestive, d’alimentation et d’anatomie cérébrale, le porc est devenu un modèle d’étude privilégié en nutrition humaine et neurosciences. Au cours de cette thèse, le porc sera donc considéré à la fois comme sujet et modèle d’étude. Quatre grandes questions seront posées au cours de ce travail :
1) Dans le contexte de l’aversion conditionnée, quelles stratégies interventionnelles permettent d’amoindrir les conséquences négatives d’une telle association sur les profils alimentaires ?
2) Quelles sont les caractéristiques de l’aliment perçues et préférées par l’individu, et quels sont les mécanismes de perception mis en jeu ?
3) Comment des contraintes physiques ou temporelles sur une offre alimentaire, ou bien une modulation du contexte social ou environnemental peuvent faciliter l’acceptation d’un aliment peu recherché ou nouveau, en regard d’un aliment connu ou préféré ?
4) Quels sont les mécanismes neurophysiologiques qui déterminent les préférences spontanées ou les aversions pour un aliment ou type d’aliment ?
Les grandes étapes de la thèse et démarche
Etape 1 : Evaluation de la modulation de l’aversion conditionnée chez un modèle animal préalablement développé dans notre laboratoire (Master 2, 2009). Comme éléments thérapeutiques potentiels des phénomènes aversifs seront testés les facteurs alimentaires (e.g. présentation d’un aliment bouc émissaire) ou environnementaux (e.g. enrichissement de milieu ou influence d’un partenaire social).
Etape 2 : Evaluation des caractéristiques de l’aliment perçues et préférées (aspect calorique, flaveur, composition nutritionnelle) : importance relative de ces différentes caractéristiques et impact des contraintes physiques ou temporelles sur les profils alimentaires, ainsi que du contexte social et environnemental. Cette étape permettra d’apporter des recommandations en matière de diversification alimentaire en santé humaine ou de problèmes de transition alimentaire en élevage.
Etape 3 : Analyse des déterminants neurophysiologiques de la perception des caractéristiques de l’aliment et l’expression des préférences ou des aversions. Une identification précise des acteurs neurophysiologiques (implication du nerf vague) et des zones cérébrales impliquées dans ces phénomènes apportera des connaissances utilisables en santé humaine par exemple, pour élaborer de nouvelles thérapies contre les troubles du comportement alimentaire.
Approches méthodologiques et techniques envisagées
Approche comportementale : caractérisation du pattern alimentaire en fonction de la nature des aliments distribués et des modalités d’obtention des aliments (conditionnement par ratio fixe ou progressif, contraintes temporelles). Etude du comportement alimentaire dans des paradigmes expérimentaux de type instrumental (dispositifs d’enregistrement automatique et informatisé du comportement et des préférences alimentaires). Les processus de motivation alimentaire seront étudiés en jouant sur la nature du travail à fournir et la source du renforcement obtenu.
Approche neurophysiologique : imagerie cérébrale (Tomographie par Emission Positonique et neuro-immunohistochimie), électrophysiologie (influence du nerf vague dans la perception des nutriments ou les processus aversifs – paradigme de stimulation nerveuse chronique par implantation d’électrodes et de stimulateurs).
Des approches complémentaires pourront être envisagées, dans le domaine de la zootechnie, de la nutrition et de la physiologie digestive, par voie de collaborations au sein de l’UMR SENAH et de l’UMT porcin.
Compétences scientifiques et techniques requises : des compétences scientifiques en biologie animale, éthologie et neurobiologie sont requises pour la mise en oeuvre de ce projet.

2 Ph.D. Positions Available

Sperm Whales and Tourism - Kaikoura, New ZealandI am currently seeking two Ph.D. students to investigate interactions between sperm whales and tourism off Kaikoura New Zealand over the next 2.5 years (field research to begin August, 2009). Both positions include logistical support, equipment, housing, and a modest expense budget for field work.

Position 1 will be a research vessel-based project, focusing on photo-identification and surface behavioral responses of whales to tour vessels.

Position 2 will combine shore- based monitoring and monitoring from onboard tour vessels and aircraft to examine behavior and movements.

Minimum Qualifications (both positions):

1. Bachelor's degree and relevant scientific research experience.

2. Ability to work effectively, both independently and cooperatively, as a member of a research team.

3. Ability to take responsibility as a research leader.

4. Ability to communicate and work effectively, responsibly, and respectfully with a diverse group of community stakeholders.

5. Ability to conduct physically demanding field work at sea and on land.

Preferred Qualifications (both positions):

1. Master's degree in a relevant field*

2. Demonstrated academic excellence

3. Experience with GIS, database, and statistical software

Additional Qualifications:

Position 1 (vessel-based research)

Additional Minimum Qualifications

1. Extensive boating experience, including a minimum of 6 months (750+ hours) working on commercial vessels and/or 3,000+ hours on recreational vessels

2. Ability to conduct research from a small vessel on the open sea.

Position 1 (vessel-based research)

Additional Preferred Qualifications:

1. Skipper Certifications: New Zealand MSA Boat Master, Local Launch Operator, Inshore Launch Master, or equivalent.

2. New Zealand Radiotelephone Operator's Certificate or equivalent

3. Water safety, first aid certifications

4. Photo-identification experience and/or other high-speed SLR photography experience5. Experience studying cetaceans from a research vessel.

Position 2 (shore-based research)

Additional Preferred qualifications:

1. Experience with shore-based monitoring of cetaceans

2. Experience with a survey's theodolite

To apply, send an email with your last name in the subject line and the following attachments to:

Dr. Tim MarkowitzSperm Whales and Tourism Research Team Leader,

Kaikoura, New ZealandSchool of Biological Sciences,

University of Canterburye

mail: swatkaikoura@yahoo.com

1. A letter which clearly states which position(s) you are interested in, and summarizes your academic and scientific background, work experience, research interests, and how you meet the qualifications listed above

2. A copy of your CV

3. A list of at least 3 professional references with contact information4. Unofficial undergraduate and graduate transcripts and/or a list of university courses taken and grades.

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until two candidates have been selected.

Teaching opportunity: Companion Animal Behavior Courses and residencies

The American college of Applied Science is looking for adjunct facultymembers to teach the following courses:Course: Avian Behavior and Intervention (Online course, Graduate Level)Course: Small Mammal and reptile behavior and intervention (Onlinecourse, Graduate Level)Course: Equine Studies (Undergraduate Level: BS in Companion AnimalScience)Residency: Equine Behavior and Intervention (5-day residency, Graduatelevel)The graduate courses and on-site residency are part of the College'sMasters Degree in Companion Animal Behavior Counseling.Applicants should have a Masters Degree (PhD preferred) in a relatedfield of study. Experience with online teaching preferable, but not arequisite.Please send your resumé to:

Marine Cassoret, Chairperson,

Department of Animal

Sciencemcassoret@amcollege.us

or

Fax: (386)-698-37561-800-403-3347 ext.713

www.amcollege.us

Marine Cassoret, Ph.D.Chairperson, Dept. of Animal ScienceAmerican College of Applied Science123 Dream Pond RoadP.O. Box 825Crescent City, FL 32112-0825 USAU.S. Phone: 800-403-3347, ext. 713Phone from outside of the U.S. (1) 407-574-3956Fax: 386-698-3756Email: mcassoret@amcollege.usWeb site: http://amcollege.us Virtual Campus: http://amcollege.net Realizing your dreams through higher education

POSTDOC POSITION

A postdoctoral fellowship for two years
Evolutionary ecology (evolution of social behaviour)
is open for application at the Department of Population Biology and Conservation Biology, Evolutionary Biology Centre , Uppsala University
The position is open to applicants which have finished their Ph.D. within the last three years prior to the application deadline (see below). We are looking for an applicant with a background in evolutionary ecology, preferably with experience of working with questions about sociality. Documented experience of theory is a merit. The applicant is expected to collaborate with the group at the department working with the evolution and natural selection of social behaviour.
More information about the position can be obtained from professor Jan Ekman tel +46 18 471 2627, email Jan.Ekman@ebc.uu.se. (Information – in swedish- also available at http://www.personalavd.uu.se/ledigaplatser/1009postdok.html)
The application including CV, signed transcripts and other documents should have arrived at Registrator, UFV-PA 2009/1009, Uppsala University, Box 256, 751 05 UPPSALA, SWEDEN, not later than 26 June 2009 (or at registrator@uu.se ). Application sent by fax or email must be complemented with original documents within a week from this deadline.

PH.D. RESEARCH ASSISTANTSHIP

UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE- Regional Assessment of Grassland Bird Populations and Conservation Effectiveness.

We are seeking a highly motivated Ph.D. student to conduct research on grasslands birds in the Central Hardwoods Bird Conservation Region beginning 15 Aug 2009 or 1 Jan 2010. The study will focus on a regional assessment of the effects of conservation practices on priority grassland bird populations. Data generated from this assessment will also serve as the benchmark for measuring progress in the future towards reaching grassland bird conservation goals. Qualifications include experience working with bird monitoring, habitat evaluation, ability to analyze complex data sets, ability to lead a research team, and ability to work well with other agencies and professionals. BS and MS degrees in wildlife science, conservation biology, ecology or related field required. Successful applicants will also have a strong academic record (GPA >3.3, GRE >1100 verbal + quantitative minimums). Deadline for applications is 15 Jul 2009. Send letter of interest, resume, GRE scores, transcripts, and names and contact information for 3 references to DR. DAVID BUEHLER, Department of Forestry, Wildlife and Fisheries, University of Tennessee, 274 Ellington Plant Sciences Building, Knoxville, TN 37996-4563, (EM: dbuehler@utk.edu, PH: 865-974-7126).
Graduate assistantships at The University of Tennessee provide ~$17,000 per year in stipend plus health insurance and a full out-of-state tuition waiver ($12,000).

FIELD ASSISTANT

FIELD ASSISTANT required for PhD project on the effects of intensiveland use on the use of agricultural land by overwintering wigeon inDelta, British Columbia. One assistant will be required from mid-Oct2009 to late Apr 2010. The successful candidate will have experiencewith projects in behavioral ecology or avian ecology and experienceworking in the field. Experience with vegetation measurement, birdidentification and/or flock size estimation, GPS operation and MS Accessan asset. The work will involve full days in the rain, wind and cold,handling duck feces, measuring vegetation and habitat characteristicsand setting up behavioural experiments. Must be capable of independentwork and decision-making and effective communication with a variety oflandowners and interest groups. Must be eligible to work in Canada, havea valid driver's license and have daily access to a vehicle to get toand from the field site in Delta, British Columbia. Qualified applicantsmay send a resume and 3 references by 14 Sep 2009 to (EM: dippers@alumni.sfu.ca.).

Lecturer in Behavioural Ecology, University of Auckland

Location: Auckland City Campus

Full/Part Time: Full-TimeRegular/Temporary: Permanent

Position OverviewThe School of Biological Sciences invites applications for a tenure-trackposition as Lecturer in Behavioural Ecology. Applicants should have a strongrecord of research and teaching, with interests both in theoretical andapplied aspects of behavioural ecology.

You will be expected to collaborate with other researchers within andoutside the university as well as establishing your own research portfoliothat attracts funding and graduate students. Any area of behavioural ecologywill be considered and ideally it will relate to contemporary issuesrelevant to New Zealand. You will also be expected to teach in The School'sacademic programme at both undergraduate and graduate levels.

The School of Biological Sciences currently employs 180 staff and supervises 120 PhD students. The School has modern laboratories and facilities (see SBSweb site: http://www.sbs.auckland.ac.nz/), and the appointee will have readyaccess to a wide range of New Zealand's unique biota and habitats.Applications for this position will close on the 31st July 2009.

https://www.opportunities.auckland.ac.nz/psp/ps/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRAM.HRS_CE.GBL

Teaching Fellows in Animal Behaviour

Ref: P09

Closes 30th Jun 2009

University of Exeter, UK, School of Psychology (Academic)

These part-time (0.7fte) posts are available from 1st September 2009 for a period of 12 months. We are seeking Teaching Fellows to join us as members of the Centre for Research in Animal Behaviour. The postholders will carry out teaching and administrative duties within the Animal Behaviour Group, including supervising MSc and undergraduate projects in the postholder’s area of interest, convening lecture courses, field courses and seminar modules at the undergraduate and MSc level, running tutorial groups, and supporting the Programme Director for the BSc and MSc in Animal Behaviour. The postholders will also have the opportunity to make use of our state of the art laboratory facilities. The successful candidate will have a PhD in Animal Behaviour and previous experience of teaching and administration in a related subject area.

The salary will be £31,513 (pro-rata £22,059) at point 32 on Grade F.

Application packs are available from http://www.admin.ex.ac.uk/personnel/jobs/P09.pdf

quoting reference number P09.

Please return completed applications along with a full current CV and covering letter to

Dr Lisa Leaver, School of Psychology, University of Exeter, Washington Singer Laboratories,Perry Road, Exeter EX4 4QG or email to l.a.leaver@exeter.ac.uk

The closing date for completed applications is 12 noon 30 June 2009.

The University of Exeter is an equal opportunity employer and promotes diversity in its workforce and, whilst all applicants will be judged on merit alone, is particularly keen to consider applications from groups currently underrepresented in the workforce.

Please contact: l.a.leaver@exeter.ac.uk

Utilisation de l’espace et prédation dans une population rurale de chats domestiques

Centre de Recherche et de Formation en Eco-éthologie de la Communauté de communes de l’Argonne Ardennaise (2C2A-CERFE), 5 rue de la Héronnière, 08240 Boult-aux-Bois, www.cerfe.com

Directeur de thèse : Marie-Lazarine Poulle (2C2A-CERFE et EA3800, Reims)

école Doctorale : Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne

Financements :

Projet financé par la Région Champagne Ardenne, le Conseil Général des Ardennes et la Communauté de communes de l’Argonne Ardennaise.

Attribution d’une bourse d’étude de 11500 euros (net)/an pendant trois ans (il s’agit d’une bourse et non d’une allocation de recherche).

Contexte et objectifs de l’étude :

Les chats domestiques (Felis catus) peuvent avoir un impact sur la faune sauvage en exerçant une prédation sur les petits mammifères, oiseaux, reptiles et amphibiens. Ils peuvent aussi menacer l’intégrité génétique des populations de chats sauvages en s’hybridant avec eux. Enfin, ils peuvent également jouer un rôle de réservoir pour la transmission de nombreux parasites, dont certains responsables de zoonoses (notamment la toxoplasmose, induite par Toxoplasma gondii). Le risque d’hybridation avec le chat forestier et la possibilité de transmission parasitaire sont élevés en milieu rural européen, où les chats domestiques sont à l’interface entre la faune sauvage et l’homme. En effet, la plupart d’entre eux sont attachés aux habitations, où ils sont plus ou moins nourris régulièrement, mais sont également utilisateurs des parcelles forestières et agricoles dans lesquelles ils se déplacent et chassent.

Les travaux conduits en milieu rural, dans les Ardennes françaises, par Eve Afonso, Estelle Germain, Maud Lélu et leurs collaborateurs (voir www.cerfe.com) ont montré que les patrons d’utilisation de l’espace par les chats domestiques sont très peu concordants avec ceux des chats forestiers et qu’il existe des relations entre la composition du paysage, la variabilité du climat et le niveau d’infection par la toxoplasmose chez les chats forestiers et domestiques chats. Plusieurs interrogations subsistent néanmoins concernant le fonctionnement des populations de chats domestiques en milieu rural, les mouvements d’individus et la prédation dans ces populations, ainsi que les caractéristiques de la contamination environnementale due aux crottes de chats infestés par Toxoplasma gondii. Dans ce contexte, les objectifs de l’étude qui débutera en octobre 2009 sont les suivants :

- suivre la dynamique d’une population de chats en milieu rural : effectif, mortalités, naissances, arrivée et départ d’individus.

- évaluer l’amplitude des déplacements des chats, leur mode d’utilisation des alentours des fermes et villages et les taux de contacts directs entre individus ;

- estimer le nombre de proies consommées/chat/jour, le succès de captures, le type de proie chassées ;

- recenser et caractériser les lieux de défécation des chats, déterminer le nombre de lieux de défécation par chat et le nombre de chats utilisant un même lieu de défécation ;

- analyser les variations des déplacements, du succès de la chasse et de l’utilisation des lieux de défécation en fonction des saisons, de la classe d’âge des individus et de leur condition physique ou de leur état de santé.

Localisation de l’étude et méthodes utilisées:

L’étude aura lieu dans le nord-est de la France, au sud-est du département des Ardennes (08), dans les villages de Boult-aux-Bois et Briquenay. Les méthodes utilisées seront les suivantes :

Ø Recensements de la population féline et suivi de son évolution : enquête auprès des propriétaires de chats et des agriculteurs, repérages visuels, captures d’individus, établissement d’un « trombinoscope », pose de colliers émetteurs ;

Ø Suivi des déplacements d’individus par radiopistage et sessions d’observations directes des comportements d’un ou plusieurs individus (focales);.

Ø Recensements des lieux de défécation. Nourrissage des chats avec des appâts marqués indigestes retrouvés dans les fèces. Analyses coprologiques pour détermination du régime alimentaire.

Profil souhaité

Le candidat doit être titulaire d’un Master 2 et avoir une solide formation en écologie et éthologie. Il doit également être familiarisé avec le traitement statistique des données, avoir de bonnes capacités de rédaction et d’expression, notamment en anglais.

Il doit nécessairement être titulaire du permis B et ne plus être jeune conducteur en automne 2009. Il doit aimer vivre en milieu rural et travailler sur le terrain en toutes saisons.

Motivé, rigoureux, autonome et débrouillard, il a également une bonne capacité de travail en équipe.

Candidatures :

Envoyer, par courrier électronique, en précisant en objet « candidature thèse chat », un CV (en précisant les notes de M1 et M2 si disponibles), une lettre de motivation et, si possible, au moins une lettre de recommandation à : marielazarine.poulle@cerfe.com

Pour des informations complémentaires, téléphoner à Marie-Lazarine Poulle : 03 24 30 27 11.

Date limite de réception des candidatures : 3 juillet 2009

Offre de thèses à l'UEB - Bretagne

Ici...

Tous les contrats doctoraux réunis...

Ce site permet de voir les dotations de CD ciblés par ED/thématiques
http://appliweb.dgri.education.fr/dotation/index.html
Et donc trouver un potentiel doctorat pour la rentrée

Bonne chance à tous d'ailleurs!

Job

Position: Comoro Islands Biodiversity Officer

Department: Conservation Programmes (Bristol Conservation and Science Foundation)

Main Place of Work: Comoro Islands, Western Indian Ocean

Application deadline: 30 June 2009 Start Date: From July 2009

Contract: The position is offered at £15,000* per annum for an initial fixed period of 18 months, with the possibility of extension beyond this time

Overview: Bristol Conservation and Science Foundation (‘BCSF’), in partnership with Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust (‘DWCT’), has recently been awarded a prestigious Darwin Initiative Grant from the UK government to fund its work in the Comoro Islands in the Western Indian Ocean. These magical islands form part of one of the five ‘hottest hotspots’ in the world for wildlife conservation, yet action remains negligible. BCSF’s intervention aims to conserve the remaining terrestrial biodiversity by achieving sustainable forest management through improving local livelihoods, working in tandem with the Comorian government, the University of the Comoros, and several other local organisations. The project has three main components: working with local communities to assist them in working towards a more sustainable production system that protects forest, biodiversity and livelihoods; setting up a biodiversity habitat and monitoring system that will help to delineate protected areas; and reinforcing a local partner NGO to ensure sustainability of the action. BCSF is now looking to recruit a dynamic, motivated and committed person to take responsibility for this second component, setting up the biodiversity monitoring system, and to contribute to the reinforcement of the local NGO.

Main Duties:

1. Developing and implementing a biodiversity monitoring scheme (based on a pressure-state-response model) for the priority areas of remaining forest of the islands of Anjouan, Mohéli and Grand Comore. To include:

finalising the definitions of pressure-state-response monitoring indicators;

field-testing monitoring indicators and ensuring they are locally feasible and relevant;

implementing and refining the monitoring sampling designs in the three islands (sampling designs will be partially developed during a desk study);

developing and field-testing data collection protocols for biodiversity and pressure monitoring indicators;

training NGO and University of Comoros staff in monitoring indicators, sampling design and data collection protocols;

conducting data collection for monitoring indicators in the wet season, and possibly dry season, in the three islands;

Training NGO staff in, and performing, GPS mapping of boundaries of community-run reserves and different usage zones in consultation with local villagers, and creating GIS maps based on these delimitations;

supporting development of a database to manage monitoring data and help evaluate data management protocols;

supporting implementation of land cover monitoring via remote sensing (this may be through FAO activities or led by Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust); and

supporting production of a monitoring manual (French and English version) to document all information relevant to the development and implementation of the monitoring scheme.

2. Building capacity in the local NGO and the University of Comoros for biodiversity assessment, monitoring (including training in field techniques), data management and data analysis.

3. Ensuring good working relationships with all local and international partners.

4. Ensuring regular reporting on project progress and outputs.

5. Assisting with drafting of scientific outputs arising from the project.

Profile:

· At least a masters degree in relevant fields

· At least one years’ experience of ecological field research in the tropics, with experience of biodiversity monitoring, design and application preferred

· Working knowledge of GIS and GPS

· Excellent spoken and written French and English, good ICT skills, current driving licence

· High degree of initiative, motivation and commitment

· Excellent organisational and time management skills

· Excellent oral and written communication skills

· Ability to work under pressure and be flexible and accommodating

· Ability to work as part of a dynamic and multicultural team

· Good degree of fitness for working in difficult terrain under tropical conditions

*Please note that with low living costs, if the candidate can register overseas for tax purposes, this will be equivalent to a UK salary of approximately £23k

Bristol Conservation and Science Foundation is an operating unit of the Bristol, Clifton and West of England Zoological Society Ltd. The Society is committed to being an equal opportunities employer, and is Investor in People accredited.

Volunteer field assistant for white-faced capuchins, Santa Rosa National Park, Costa Rica

Hiring Organization:
Valerie Schoof, Graduate student, Tulane University

Date Posted:
2009-06-08

Position Description:
I am looking for an enthusiastic, independent and capable volunteer field assistant to participate in a study of male reproductive strategies in white-faced capuchins (Cebus capucinus). The field site is located in the dry tropical lowland forest of Santa Rosa National Park in northwestern Costa Rica.

While in the field, assistants will collect full-day behavioral observations (focal animal follows), fecal samples for hormone analysis, fecal samples for parasite analysis, GPS ranging data, and once monthly phenology data. Other responsibilities include (but are not limited to) data entry, field processing of fecal samples, and trail cutting and maintenance.

This position is ideal for someone interested in gaining field experience in preparation for graduate school. You will learn various field methods relevant for the study of animal behavior, behavioral ecology, and socioendocrinology.

Qualifications/Experience:
• Preference will be given to applicants who hold an undergraduate degree in Biology, Ecology, Animal Behavior, Physical Anthropology, or other related fields.
• Experience working with primates is not necessary, though experience with animals, camping and/or working outdoors is strongly preferred.
• The ideal applicant should have prior experience with living or working in a foreign country, with special preference for developing countries.
• Knowledge of Spanish is helpful, but not necessary; however, a willingness to learn is expected.
• Applicants must:
o Be in good physical and mental condition;
o Be comfortable away from family and friends;
o Be emotionally mature, energetic, dedicated, very patient and have very good social skills, especially in small groups;
o Be willing to put up with insects, scorpions, snakes and other pests; being alone in the forest;
o Be able to maintain a positive and humorous attitude towards challenging, tiring, and sometimes frustrating work;
o Have a strong interest in primate behavior and want to have fun learning and working with them!

Salary/funding:
I will reimburse round-trip airfare to Costa Rica (up to $1000US) upon completion of the arranged duration of the assistantship. I will also pay for the room fees for part of your room fees at the end of your stay (exact amount will depend on the contract length), and the internet fees.

Assistants are responsible for room fees for the first part of the field stay (US$10/day), food, any expenses related to time off, health and travel insurance, immunizations, personal field clothes, boots, and binoculars.

Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):
See above.

Term of Appointment:
ASAP to end of November 2009

Application Deadline:
Until filled

Comments:
Serious applicants please contact me at vschoof@tulane.edu to receive a field guide. Applicants still interested in applying after initial contact should submit the following (via email):

1. Brief Curriculum Vitae including relevant coursework, previous field/outdoor/sports/travel experience, and where/how you can be contacted;
2. Letter of interest (please include dates you are available);
3. Contact information for at least two persons willing to act as referees (preferably professors or research supervisors with whom you've worked closely).

Contact Information:
Valerie Schoof
7041 Freret Street
New Orleans, LA 70118
USA

E-mail Address:
vschoof@tulane.edu

POST-DOCTORAL RESEARCH ASSOCIATE: Long term study of the Florida Scrub-Jay

I am searching for an individual to become an integral partner in a long-term study of the Florida Scrub-Jay.
The position is funded (NSF) for three years and is to begin in August 2009 (start date is flexible). It provides a competitive salary plus generous benefits. Duties for approximately 5 months (January - June) per year include field work and oversight of a field crew at Archbold Biological Station in south-central Florida: onsite housing is provided. The research associate will be encouraged to develop an independent project within the general theme of the project. The successful applicant will be based in the Department of Biology at the University of Memphis for the balance of the year. During this time, the research associate will have considerable flexibility in how he/she spends their time, although data analysis and publication preparation are expected. The successful applicant will have a PhD, demonstrated expertise in avian biology, field experience (preferably field endocrine techniques), and a strong interest in the links between physiology, ecology, and behavior. Applicants should submit a cover letter stating their qualifications and research interests, curriculum vitae, and complete contact information (include e-mail address and telephone number) for three references. Send applications via standard mail or E-mail (preferred) to Dr. Stephan J. Schoech, Department of Biology, University of Memphis, Memphis, TN 38152. (EM: sschoech@memphis.edu). Telephone: 901.678.2327. Feel free to contact me (SJS) for further information. Review of applications will begin immediately.

The University of Memphis is an equal opportunity/affirmative action university.

GRADUATE STUDENT POSITIONS (2) - University of Memphis

GRADUATE STUDENT POSITIONS for two students (Ph.D. or M.S.) are available in the lab of Dr. Stephan Schoech in the Department of Biology at the University of Memphis. Dr. Schoechs research lies at the interface between physiology and behavior and is primarily focused on the behavioral, reproductive, and environmental endocrinology of the Florida Scrub-Jay, a cooperatively breeding and threatened species. Dr. Schoech has been continuously funded by NSF for many years: a copy of his current grant (2009 - 2011) will be made available to potential students (i. e., upon receipt of initial contact I will send a packet of information). The Department of biology at the University of Memphis offers a competitive stipend for teaching assistants and the research of students working under the supervision of Dr. Schoech will be fully supported should their project overlap current funding objectives. Information on graduate study in biology at the University of Memphis can be found at http://biology.memphis.edu. For further information please contact Dr. Schoech via either email (sschoech@memphis.edu) or telephone (901.678.2327).

Field Assistant: Male competition and cooperation in Barbary macaques in Morocco

Hiring Organization:
University of Göttingen

Date Posted:
2009-06-04

Position Description:
We are looking for research assistants to join a PhD project investigating competition and cooperation in male wild Barbary macaques in the middle atlas mountains, Morocco. The project will focus on male reproductive competition and consequences for social relationships and stress physiology. The position will involve habituation and identification of wild Barbary macaques as well as detailed behavioural and physiological data collection. Hormonal sample collection will also be required. The position is for a minimum period of 6 months with longer term commitment preferred. The principle investigator for the project is Christopher Young undertaking a PhD supervised by Prof. Julia Ostner of the University of Göttingen, Germany.

The work at the field site is physically very demanding. The field site is between 1,400 and 1,900m a.s.l. and weather conditions can vary dramatically across the year, with temperature ranging between 35ºC to -5ºC and snow in the winter months. Hence, interested individuals should be physically fit and have previous experience with field work in remote areas. The successful applicant will live in the town of Azrou in an apartment block with basic amenities including internet access.

Qualifications/Experience:
Previous field experience is desirable but not essential. However, priority will be given to applicants who have experience of behavioural and physiological data collection on wild and/or free-ranging primates. Applicants should have prior experience working in physically demanding environmental conditions and also experience of living away from friends and family for a prolonged period. A strong interest in primatological research is a must.

In addition applicants should:
• Be mentally and physically fit for long days in the field in a challenging environment.
• Be prepared to adapt to living in a foreign culture.
• Be able to speak English (French/Arabic beneficial).
• Be adaptable and able to work both as part of a team and individually.
• Be reliable, patient, enthusiastic and committed to scientific research.
• Driving license is desirable.

Salary/funding:
No salary will be provided at this time.

Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):
We are able to reimburse a round trip airfare after the completion of a minimum of a 6 month period. The costs associated with accommodation and travel to and from the field site will be covered by me. Living expenses are to be covered by the applicant and should cost approximately £20 per week. The successful applicant should cover their own health and travel insurance.

Term of Appointment:
A minimum commitment of 6 months is required; however, longer term commitments are encouraged. The first position is to begin soon after a successful applicant has been selected with the position commencing preferably at the start of July. A review of applicants will start immediately and will continue until the position is filled. We do intend to fill the position as soon as possible but this is a long running project so all applications are welcome.

Application Deadline:
Until position is filled

Comments:
In order to apply please email a cover letter explaining previous experience, interest and suitability to the position along with a CV (including details of 2 referees) and details of your availability. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.

Contact Information:
Chris Young
The Courant Research Center Evolution of Social Behavior, Göttingen University
Göttingen 37077
Germany

Telephone Number:
+447708526542

Website:
http://www.uni-goettingen.de/en/92425.html

E-mail Address:
chrisyoung1888@hotmail.co.uk

Funded PhD Studentships

Educational Organization:
University of Portsmouth

Date Posted:
2009-06-04

Program Description:
Applications are invited for 2 fully funded full-time PhD studentships and 1 Graduate Teaching Assistantship (GTA) in Psychology at the University of Portsmouth. The Department’s research is organised around three Science Faculty recognised Research Centres: International Centre for Research in Forensic Psychology; Centre for Human Ecology, Culture and Communication; Centre for the Study of Emotion. There is also a research group in Animal Behaviour (with a strong focus on primatological research).

Applicants in any area related to our research interests (including primatology) are welcome to apply, and are encouraged to contact a potential PhD supervisor before applying. Students interested in primate social communication are welcome to contact Dr. Bridget Waller for more information.

Entrance Qualifications:
Applicants will have a Bachelors degree in Psychology or a related discipline (minimum 2.1 or equivalent), and for the full time PhD studentships a Masters (or equivalent) with research training relevant for the applicant’s research proposal. Applicants for the studentships must be UK or EU residents; for queries about eligibility please call +44 (0)23 9284 5550, or email sci-pgrad@port.ac.uk.

Support (scholarships, travel):
The studentships will be funded for three years and include tuition fees and a maintenance grant (£13,290 in 2009-2010). Students will also receive £1000 per year for research and conference expenses, as well as office space and personal computing facilities. The GTA will spend 50% of their time working for a PhD on the basis of part-time registration, and 50% on Departmental teaching duties. The GTA is a fixed-term appointment for 5 years (salary £24,152-£26,391).

Start + End Dates:
Start date 1st October 2009.

Application Deadline:
The deadline for applications is 19 June 2009. Interviews will be held in early July 2009.

Comments:
Applicants for both the studentships and GTA should submit an outline research proposal of up to 500 words. Applicants for the studentships should send their research proposal and a CV (including the contact details of two referees) to Kerry Walker, Department of Psychology, King Henry Building, King Henry 1st Street, University of Portsmouth, PO1 2DY (Tel: +44 (0)2392 6314, email: kerry.walker@port.ac.uk).

Applications for the GTA position should be made via the University Website (include your research proposal in the application). For additional information about the application procedure for the GTA please call +44 (0)23 9284 3421, or email jobs@port.ac.uk. Please quote job reference number ASCI8033 in all communications.

Contact Information:
Bridget Waller
King Henry 1st Street
Portsmouth, Hampshire PO4 0LL
United Kingdom

Website:
http://www.port.ac.uk/departments/academic/psychology/latestnews/title,96956,en.html

E-Mail Address:
bridget.waller@port.ac.uk

Field Assistants: Behavioral Ecology of Phayre's Leaf Monkeys

Hiring Organization:
Andreas Koenig - Stony Brook University

Date Posted:
2009-06-05

Position Description:
Field assistants are needed for a research project on the behavioral ecology of Phayre's leaf monkeys (Trachypithecus phayrei) at Phu Khieo Wildlife Sanctuary, Northeastern Thailand. The study is conducted by Andreas Koenig & Carola Borries (Dept of Anthropology, Stony Brook University) and aims to test socio-ecological models regarding costs and benefits of group life, ecology of social relationships, and reproductive strategies.

The study area comprises a primary forest (hill evergreen, dry evergreen, dry dipterocarp, pine and bamboo forest) at an elevation of 300-1,300m asl (monsoon climate with cold winters). In addition to 7-8 primate species, the area harbors e.g., elephants, gaurs, 2 bear species, 8 cat species (including tigers), wild dogs, jackals, snakes (including cobras) and plenty of leeches, mosquitoes, spiders, and ticks.

The work will include: maintenance of a trail system, basic botantical work, behavioral observations (e.g., ranging, activity budgets, focal sampling), data entry as well as maintenance of equipment. Most of the work in the forest is off-trail including areas with dense undergrowth and bamboo stands. The field assistants will be trained in Thailand. Basic accomodation is available at the headquarters within the sanctuary (see our web page; more details available on request).

Qualifications/Experience:
The work in the forest is demanding (particularly during the rainy season) and field worker rather regularly encounter elephants, forest bisons, bears, packs of wild dogs, snakes, etc. Applicants should be physically fit, self-reliant, and feel comfortable under the conditions described. The ability to ride a motorbike is essential. Applicants should have a BS or BA (Biology, Physical Anthropology or related field) and prior research experience. Applicants must be willing to learn the Thai language.

Salary/funding:
No salary.

Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):
No salary is provided. We will provide a small stipend, which is, however, not sufficient to cover all costs on site. Successful applicants need to be prepared to cover ca. $100-$200 per month. Airfare up to $1,500 will be provided; please note, however, that transportation costs will be reimbursed only at the end of your stay (after a complete stay of 13 months on site), i.e., successful applicants have to initially cover their airfare. Positions and funding are contingent of our success in grant applications.

Term of Appointment:
13 months; beginning ca. mid-end of June 2010 or later (depending on when funding becomes available)

Application Deadline:
July 15, 2009

Comments:
Applications should include an application letter, CV/résumé, as well as names, phone numbers and e-mails of 2 references. Applications by e-mail are preferred .

Contact Information:
Andreas Koenig
Dept of Anthropology, Circle Rd, SBS Bldg S-517
Stony Brook, NY 11794-4364
USA

Telephone Number:
631-632-1513

Fax Number:
631-632-9165

Website:
http://www.sunysb.edu/anthro/BorriesKoenig/Home.html

E-mail Address:
akoenig@notes.cc.sunysb.edu

Field assistants in research project on baboon cognition in South Africa

Hiring Organization:
Rahel Noser, Research Group Cognitive Ethology, German Primate Center

Date Posted:
2009-06-05

Position Description:
I am looking for two highly motivated, reliable and self-organised field assistants to help me collect observational and experimental data and work in the back office in an ongoing research project on baboon cognition. Applicants should be willing to commit for the time between mid-September 2009 and mid-April 2010, for 6 months. The study site is situated in and next to Table Mountain National Park on the Cape Peninsula, South Africa. Study subjects range in a forest and partly in urban areas.

Field assistants will live in the city of Cape Town, in a lively household shared and run by scientists, non-scientists and a child. They are expected to have good team and work spirits, high social competence, flexibility and a good amount of humour.

Candidates are also expected to work long hours (12+) per day 6 days a week under all weather conditions. They must understand that fieldwork is physically and mentally tough, repetitive and at times frustrating. Therefore, a genuine interest in working with wild animals is an absolute must, as is the ability to cope with the presence of poisonous snakes.

Qualifications/Experience:
Candidates ideally pursue a career in physical anthropology, primatology, zoology, psychology or related fields, and have a valid driver’s license. Candidates with experience in ethological methodology, fieldwork and with travel/living abroad experience, especially in Southern countries, are given priority.

Salary/funding:
None.

Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):
I offer free accommodation and the opportunity to gain experience in primate field research. Assistants are expected to pay for all other costs (travel to and from South Africa, food, phone, internet, visa, extras, insurance, running costs at home etc.).

Term of Appointment:
6 months

Contact Information:
Rahel Noser
Germany

Website:
http://www.cog-ethol.de

E-mail Address:
rnoser@dplanet.ch

Proposition de thèse / PhD opportunity

Laboratoire Éthologie Expérimentale et Comparée – Université Paris XIII

Début de la thèse / Starting date : Automne 2009
Contac t :
Dr. Nicolas Châline
nicolas.chaline@leec.univ-paris13.fr
+33 (0) 1 49 40 39 54
http://www-leec.univ-paris13.fr
(English version below)

Une bourse de thèse est disponible sous la direction de Nicolas Châline au laboratoire d'Éthologie Expérimentale et Comparée dans l’équipe Éthologie des hyménoptères sociaux (LEEC). Cette offre prend place dans le programme de recherche SEUILS financé par l’ANR dans le cadre de l’appel à projets Jeunes Chercheurs et Jeunes Chercheuses 2009 (cf. le résumé du projet ci-dessous). Le candidat sélectionné pourra en fonction de ses intérêts particuliers s’impliquer plus particulièrement dans l’une ou l’autre des thématiques développées. Des informations complémentaires peuvent être obtenues directement auprès de N. Châline.

Le candidat devra être titulaire d’un M2 et avoir une solide formation en éthologie. Il aura idéalement des notions en analyses pharmacologiques et/ou analyses chimiques.

Date limite de candidature : le 28 juin

Le dossier devra être envoyé par voie électronique à N. Châline (nicolas.chaline@leec.univ paris13.fr ) . Il comportera :
- Un CV détaillé
- Un relevé des notes du Master
- Une lettre de motivation
- Au moins une lettre de recommandation envoyée directement par le référent à nicolas.chaline@leec.univ-paris13.fr

Les candidats pré-sélectionnés seront convoqués pour une audition avec les membres du projet. Celle-ci aura lieu à l'Université Paris XIII-Villetaneuse dans la semaine du 6 juillet.

Projet SEUILS : Modulation des décisions comportementales individuelles dans un contexte social

Résumé
Chez les insectes sociaux, les mécanismes qui sous-tendent les prises de décisions individuelles, souvent négligés, permettent pourtant de mieux comprendre les réponses adaptatives des individus aux besoins tant individuels que coloniaux. Le cadre théorique de notre projet dérive de modèles à seuil qui formalisent les processus de décision en 3 étapes:
- Expression : quels signaux portent l’information ?
- Perception : quels processus sensoriels et cognitifs permettent l’évaluation de ces signaux?
- Action : quelles sont les règles de décision ?
Nous étudierons chacune de ces étapes au travers de trois contextes sociaux complexes : la reconnaissance sociale, la division du travail et les décisions reproductrices des ouvrières. Nous mettrons ensuite en évidence l’importance de facteurs internes et externes sur ces mécanismes de prise de décisions. La reconnaissance sociale, notre premier contexte, est basée chez les insectes sociaux sur des signaux chimiques. Elle comprend un mécanisme de comparaison entre l’odeur perçue et une image de référence interne (template) qui est acquise lors d’un apprentissage précoce et/ou dérivée d’un mécanisme d’auto-référence (self-matching). Le comportement résultant de cette comparaison (rejet ou non) dépend de la valeur adaptative associée au contexte. Les insectes adultes peuvent aussi apprendre un nouveau template associé à une colonie étrangère, ce qui modifie en retour leur réponse agressive envers cette colonie. Nos
objectifs sont (1) de caractériser l’apprentissage d’un nouveau template chez l’adulte et (2) d’expliciter les règles de décision après évaluation du stimulus. Nous évaluerons aussi l’influence des bioamines et du statut nutritionnel sur (1) l’apprentissage du template et (2) la détermination du seuil de tolérance.
La division du travail, notre second contexte, repose à la fois sur la spécialisation et la flexibilité comportementale des ouvrières qui permettent une réponse intégrée aux besoins de la colonie. Les larves sont une des sources d’information sur l’état de la colonie et les besoins qui en résultent, permettant aux adultes d’ajuster leurs comportements de soins au couvain et d’approvisionnement. Après avoir identifié les signaux larvaires, nous caractériserons le seuil de réponse associé à chaque tâche comportementale et analyserons l’influence de l’état interne des individus sur ces seuils de réponse. Les décisions reproductrices des ouvrières, notre troisième contexte, découlent de la possibilité des ouvrières, dans la plupart des espèces, de développer leurs ovaires et pondre des œufs mâles. Il en résulte un conflit potentiel entre les femelles dont l’expression dépend des coûts et bénéfices associés à leur reproduction effective. Une stratégie alternative récemment mise en évidence consiste à quitter sa colonie pour en parasiter une autre. Nous étudierons les facteurs influençant les choix des ouvrières en faveur d’une de ces trois stratégies : travailler, se reproduire ou parasiter une autre colonie.
L’analyse détaillée des comportements observés dans différents paradigmes expérimentaux sera réalisée grâce à des logiciels de trajectométrie et d’analyse comportementale. Les signaux chimiques seront analysés par chromatographie en phase gazeuse. Leur activité biologique sera évaluée par des tests comportementaux grâce à des extraits bruts ou manipulés (par fractionnement ou mélange).
Nous étudierons principalement l’influence de deux facteurs sur les prises de décision dans nos trois contextes sociaux : - les facteurs neuroendocrines (en particulier les bioamines) sont connus pour influencer différents aspects des comportements individuels comme l’apprentissage et les réponses agonistiques. Ils jouent aussi un rôle dans les processus de reconnaissance, la régulation de la division du travail et de l’activité reproductrice. Nous réaliserons des dosages de ces facteurs, et nous les manipulerons à l’échelle individuelle et de la colonie par application topique, ingestion ou injection. - les facteurs nutritionnels influencent la santé de la colonie (ressources et élevage du couvain) et l’activité physiologique des individus. Ils sont donc en lien direct avec la valeur adaptative des différentes réponses comportementales et les coûts et bénéfices associés. Nous estimerons leur influence en manipulant les ressources énergétiques aux niveaux colonial et individuel.
En conclusion, notre projet se situe à la croisée des sciences du comportement, de la cognition et de l’évolution. Les prises de décision comportementale dans des contextes sociaux complexes seront au coeur de notre projet. Par une approche intégrée, nous visons à apporter des éléments novateurs et essentiels à la compréhension des interactions entre pressions de sélection et processus cognitifs dans l’explication du comportement.


A PhD opportunity is available at the Laboratory of Experimental and Comparative Ethology (LEEC) supervised by Nicolas Châline (Social Hymenoptera Ethology group). The PhD grant is part of the research program SEUILS funded by the French national research agency (ANR) as a project “Jeunes Chercheurs et Jeunes Chercheuses 2009” (see the abstract below). The successful candidate will be involved in one or more of the research axes, according to his experience and interests. More information can be obtained from N. Châline. The candidates should have a Master’s degree and a solid background in behavioural sciences and will ideally be trained in pharmacology and/or chemical analyses.

Application deadline: 28 June

Please send applications to Nicolas.chaline@leec.univ-paris13.fr with:
- A detailed CV
- Academic records for the Master’s degree
- A cover letter
- At least one personal recommendation sent directly by the referee to nicolas.chaline@leec.univ-paris13.fr

Selected candidates will be auditioned by the team members at Paris XIII-Villetaneuse University during the week starting the 6th of July.

Project SEUILS : Modulation of individual behavioral decisions in social contexts

Abstract
Individual decision processes have often been overlooked in insect societies. However, investigating the mechanisms underlying these processes allows understanding how individuals adjust to their environment and thereby adaptively satisfy their needs and the colony’s. The theoretical framework of our project derives from response-threshold models describing individual decisions as 3-components processes:
- Expression: What are the task-related signals?
- Perception: What sensory and cognitive processes allow the evaluation of these signals?
- Action: How is the decision reached?
Each phase will be investigated in three contexts reflecting social complexity: social recognition, task allocation and worker reproductive decisions. We will unravel the role of internal and external factors on social insects’ decisions in context. Social recognition, the first aspect, is based in insects on chemical signals. During encounters a phenotype-matching process allows comparison between perceived cues and an internal template acquired through an imprinting-like process and/or self-reference mechanisms. The actual behavioural response (rejection or not) depends on adaptive significance of the discrimination. Interestingly, adult social insects have also been proven able to learn an enemy-specific template from an alien colony, leading to a modified level of aggression. We aim at (1) characterising the template learning process in adults and (2) elucidating the decisions rules after stimulus assessment. We will assess the influence of bioamines and nutritional status (1) on template learning and (2) on the tolerance threshold value. Task allocation, the second social situation, is characterised by specialisation and behavioural flexibility which permit the workers to respond to colony needs. Among others, larvae may provide information on colony-level attributes and work demands, and adjust individual choices and task performances for both nursing and foraging. After identification of the larval signals, we will characterise the associated response threshold for each agerelated task and analyse the effect of individual internal state on the response threshold.
Worker reproductive decisions are the third aspect of decision processes studies. In most social insect species, the ability of workers to lay male eggs creates a potential conflict between all colony members for reproduction. The expression of this conflict depends on costs and benefits associated to the decision of reproducing or not. A new strategy has been discovered where workers parasitize conspecific colonies. We will investigate the influence of various factors on the choices available to workers. These choices are to work, to reproduce or to parasitize another colony.
Experimental designs will be developed to allow detailed behavioural observations which will be aided by path analyses and behaviour recording software. Signals will be analysed through gas chromatography. Extraction techniques will be developed to test biological activity of signals and to manipulate them, for example by creating fractions or mixed chemical signals to be used in bioassays. We will focus on the influence of two factors on individual decisions in our three social contexts: - Neuroendocrine factors (in particular biogenic amines) are known to influence various aspects of individual behaviour such as learning abilities and aggression. They also play a part in the regulation of task allocation, recognition processes and reproductive decisions. These factors will be quantified and manipulated at the individual and colony-level through injections, feeding and topical applications. - Nutritional factors play an important role as they influence colony health (resources and brood rearing) and individuals’ physiology. They are directly linked with fitness and costs and benefits of the various behavioural responses. Their influence will be
assessed by experimental manipulations of energetic resources both at colony and individual level.
In conclusion, our project is at the crossroad of behavioural, cognitive and evolutionary sciences. We will focus on behavioural decision making in complex social contexts. Through an integrative approach of behaviour, we will bring new and much needed elements to understand the interplay between selective pressures and cognitive processes

Projet de thèse : Facteurs de risque du bien-être des vaches laitières

Partenariat ENVL – INRA

Date limite de réception des candidatures : 25 juin 2009

Laboratoires d’accueil : INRA UR1213 Herbivores / Unité Gestion des élevages ENVL
Encadrement de la thèse : Isabelle Veissier, DR2 INRA, Luc Mounier, MC ENVL
Ecole doctorale de rattachement : Sciences de la Vie et de la Santé de l’université Blaise Pascal de Clermont-Ferrand

Financement : ENVL / Pole ESTIVE / INRA
Contacts : Luc Mounier : l.mounier@vet-lyon.fr ; 04 78 87 27 71

Début de la thèse : fin 2009
Dossier de candidature : curriculum vitae + lettre de motivation montrant l’adéquation de la candidature avec le modèle proposé.

Enjeux socio-économiques et scientifiques.

A l’heure actuelle, les productions agricoles s’inscrivent dans un développement qui se doit d’être durable. Les composantes de la durabilité sont 1/ une production économiquement viable, 2/ une production respectueuse de l’environnement et 3/ une production socialement acceptable. La problématique de la thèse s’inscrit dans le troisième volet de la durabilité avec la prise en compte du bien-être, en particulier dans l’élevage de vaches laitières.
Face à l’attente sociétale croissante, des réglementations, des programmes visant à garantir le bien-être des animaux (ex charte des bonnes pratiques en élevage ou initiatives privées d’entreprises laitières et de restauration rapide) ainsi que des systèmes de suivi de l’état des animaux (ex Projet européen WelfareQuality®) se mettent en place. Il devient donc urgent d’apporter des outils de gestion aux éleveurs leur permettant non seulement de comprendre l’état de bien-être de leurs animaux mais aussi de l’évaluer et d’apporter des actions correctives permettant d’agir sur celui-ci.
Le projet Welfare Quality ® a établi des critères permettant d’évaluer le bien-être animal pour toutes ses dimensions (absence de faim, absence de soif, confort du couchage, liberté de mouvements, absence de blessures, de maladies, de douleurs causées par des pratiques d’élevage, expression des comportements sociaux et autres, bonne relation homme-animal, absence de stress). Il convient maintenant d’identifier les facteurs de risques pouvant influencer les critères de bien-être (liés à la conception et/ou à la gestion de l’élevage) pour être en mesure de les corriger.

Description du projet de thèse

La thèse proposée s’articule principalement sur 2 volets :
1/ l’identification des critères de bien-être, tels que définis par WelfareQuality®, les plus critiques et les plus variables en élevage laitier,
2/ l’identification des facteurs de risque et de leur impact de un ou deux critères.

Les méthodes envisagées pour répondre aux questions soulevées par le sujet de thèse comprendront des enquêtes en élevages et des méta-analyses de travaux publiés, notamment pour définir les aspects les plus variables du bien-être animal, identifier les facteurs de variation et en quantifier les effets. Ces méthodes s’appuient sur un certain nombre d’outils ou de matériels disponibles, notamment le système d’évaluation mis au point par Welfare Quality ®. Les enquêtes se dérouleront dans les élevages laitiers de la clientèle vétérinaire de l’ENVL dont certains suivis régulièrement dans le cadre de la médecine des populations. Si besoin, les enquêtes pourront également être menées dans la région Auvergne, riche en élevages laitiers, notamment par le biais de l’ENITA de Clermont-Ferrand.

Projet pédagogique

Le thésard sera recruté à l’Ecole Vétérinaire de Lyon en tant que Maitre de conférences contractuel à mi-temps. Il aura donc une charge d’enseignement à effectuer. Les enseignements dispensés seront les bases de la zootechnie (notions de systèmes, …), notamment en élevages monogastriques (porcs et volailles). Au terme de la thèse, l’ouverture d’un concours de Maitre de Conférences titulaire en zootechnie est prévue en 2013.

Environnement scientifique et pédagogique

La thèse se déroulera à la fois sur Lyon (1ère partie de la thèse) et sur Clermont-Ferrand (2ème
partie). Le thésard bénéficiera du soutien de l’équipe ACS de l’INRA et de l’unité Gestion des élevages de l’ENVL et plus particulièrement de l’encadrement de L. Mounier et I. Veissier pour tous les aspects tant scientifiques que pédagogiques.

Compétences (cognitives et techniques) que le doctorant acquerra durant sa thèse

Outre les compétences scientifiques classiques (bibliographie, analyse statistique, rédaction scientifique…), le doctorant acquerra des compétences en conception et mise en place d’enquêtes en exploitations, en exploitation de données d’enquêtes (éventuellement via la modélisation), ainsi qu’une connaissance du terrain. Le doctorant acquerra également des compétences pédagogiques grâce à la charge d’enseignement allégée prévue dans son contrat de maitre de conférences à mi-temps. L’ensemble de ces compétences lui seront utiles pour préparer le concours de maitre de conférences à l’ENVL dans l’unité Gestion des élevages.

Formation et compétences requises pour candidater

Master2 ou équivalence.
Une bonne connaissance des productions animales et du terrain sont essentiels. Une formation « ingénieur » serait un plus.
Une sensibilisation au bien-être animal est appréciée.
Enfin une aversion pour les statistiques et les mathématiques n’est pas souhaitable

Field assistant for Lepilemur sahamalazensis in Madagascar

Hiring Organization:
Bristol Zoo Gardens

Date Posted:
2009-06-02

Position Description:
We are looking for a field assistant fluent in French and English (or French and German) to work on a field study in Northwest Madagascar. This study will involve aspects of behavioural ecology and conservation of the Sahamalaza Peninsula sportive lemur (Lepilemur sahamalazensis). This is a Critically Endangered species, which was only described in 2006. This will be a preliminary field season to form the basis of future fieldwork and as a result the assistant will not acquire extensive data collection skills. However, this will be an excellent opportunity to experience what is involved in the set-up of a field-based project and the assistant will gain experience in radio-tracking, recording vocalisations and behavioural observations, along with experience working with local guides.

Qualifications/Experience:
The most essential skill for applicants is fluency in conversational French and English (or French and German). Qualifications and experience in the general areas of biology, zoology or conservation are preferred but are not required, as all the necessary skills will be taught during the fieldwork.

In general, applicants should:
- have a strong interest in behaviour and conservation,
- be in good physical and mental condition,
- be comfortable working and living in basic accommodation (camping) far from amenities and in a relatively isolated location,
- be confident working closely with people from a very different culture, in a developing country,
- be enthusiastic and have a good sense of humour!

Salary/funding:
Applicants will need to pay their own round-trip airfare to Madagascar and for travel to and from the research station. Assistants are also responsible for the costs of a visa to work in Madagascar, for health insurance and immunizations.

Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):
Accommodation and meals during the project will be provided.

Term of Appointment:
The position is for 2 months commencing 1th September and ending 28th October 2009 (these dates are negotiable to some extent). Successful applicants will require an interview either in person or via telephone.

Application Deadline:
Applications will be considered as soon as they are submitted and interviews will commence immediately.

Comments:
Applications should include:
1. CV including relevant coursework, previous field/outdoor experience, and where/how you can be contacted
2. A covering letter with details of your suitability for this position
Please send all applications to: c.xanthosternos@googlemail.com

Contact Information:
Melanie Seiler
Bristol Zoo Gardens, Clifton
Bristol BS8 3HA
United Kingdom

Telephone Number:
+44(0)1179747358

Fax Number:
+44(0)1179736814

Website:
http://www.bristolzoo.org.uk/about/conservation

E-mail Address:
c.xanthosternos@googlemail.com

Postdoc modelling primate social evolution

Hiring Organization:
Courant Research Center for the Evolution of Social Behavior, University of Göttingen, Germany

Date Posted:
2009-05-27

Position Description:
A postdoc position is available at the Courant Research Center for the Evolution of Social Behavior at the University of Göttingen, Germany. The successful applicant will model evolutionary processes of primate sociality.

The Courant Research Center was funded by the German Initiative for Excellence in 2008 and brings together Psychologists, Zoologists and Evolutionary Anthropologists to collaborate on projects on the evolutionary basis of human social behaviour.
The working language at the Center is English.

Qualifications/Experience:
Candidates need a PhD in Ecology and Evolution, (Theoretical) Biology, or Anthropology in hand, and experience with mathematical, game theoretical, and/or agent based modelling as well as a sound background in evolutionary theory and primate behaviour.
Applications should include a letter describing research experiences and interests, CV and contact information of three referees. Applications should be send to Prof. Julia Ostner via email (jostner@gwdg.de).

Salary/funding:
First year funding will be a scholarship (9-12 months depending on the starting date) with the possibility to continue on a research scientist position for up to four more years.

Term of Appointment:
start date as soon as possible

Application Deadline:
Review of applications start immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

Contact Information:
Julia Ostner
Kellnerweg 6
Göttingen 37077
Germany

Telephone Number:
+49-551-393925

Website:
http://www.eva.mpg.de/ipse/

E-mail Address:
jostner@gwdg.de

Offre de stage

Laboratoire de Recherche Fondamentale et Appliquée en Ecologie Chimique (FARCE), Neuchâtel
SUISSE

Intitulé du stage :
Le E-β-caryophyllene : un élément clé dans les relations tritrophiques souterraines entre le maïs, les larves de chrysomèles du mais, et des nématodes parasites.

Background :
En réponse à des attaques d’insectes phytophages, les plantes produisent des composés organiques volatiles attractifs pour les ennemis naturels de l’insecte herbivore. Ces interactions tritrophiques entre les plantes, les insectes herbivores, et leurs ennemis sont bien connues au niveau aérien des plantes. Cependant, de tels systèmes existent également dans le sol. Ainsi, lorsque des racines de plantes de maïs sont attaquées par la larve de chrysomèle, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera, la plante émet un sesquiterpène, le E-β-caryophyllene. Ce composé peut alors servir de signal pour des nématodes, Heterorhabditis megidis, parasites létaux de la larve de chrysomèle (Rasmann et al., 2005).

Objectifs :
1. Caractériser la cinétique et la durée d’émission du E-β-caryophyllene par des plantes infestées par les larves de chrysomèles.
2. Evaluer si une première infestation permet à la plante de réagir plus vite ou plus fortement contre une seconde attaque (en termes d’émission de E-β-caryophyllene ).

Méthodes :
Des plantes de maïs seront infestées avec des larves de chrysomèles. L’émission du E-β-caryophyllene par les racines sera évaluée à différents temps, pendant ou après une première ou seconde infestation. L’expression des gènes de défense des plantes sera mise en évidence par PCR quantitative. Les volatiles émis par les plantes seront analysés en chromatographie gazeuse couplée avec un spectromètre de masse. Enfin, l’attraction des plantes pour les nématodes pourra être testée en utilisant un olfactomètre souterrain à six bras.

Profil :
Etudiant bac+3 ou plus en Biologie ou Chimie.
Neuchâtel se trouve en Suisse francophone. Cependant, le laboratoire réunit des chercheurs d’origines très variées. Les langues les plus couramment parlées au sein du laboratoire sont anglais/français/allemand. De bonnes connaissances en anglais seront un plus.

Période & Durée :
Période à convenir entre décembre 2009 et juillet 2010.
4-6 mois

Contact :
CV et lettre de motivation avant le 31 août 2009 à :
Christelle ROBERT,
Laboratoire FARCE,
Rue Emile Argand, 11
CH-2000 NEUCHATEL
SUISSE
Christelle.robert@unine.ch
Référence citée :
Rasmann, S., Kollner, T.G., Degenhardt, J., Hiltpold, I., Toepfer, S., Kuhlmann, U., Gershenzon, J., & Turlings, T.C.J. (2005) Recruitment of entomopathogenic nematodes by insect-damaged maize roots. Nature, 434, 732-737

Proposition de thèse en comportement animal

ÉMOTIONS, COGNITION ET BIEN-ÊTRE CHEZ LES OVINS :
ACCUMULATION D'ÉMOTIONS ET DÉVELOPPEMENT D'ÉTATS AFFECTIFS DURABLES

Laboratoire d'accueil : INRA UR1213 Herbivores (http://www2.clermont.inra.fr/urh/)
Directeur du laboratoire : Jean-François HOCQUETTE, DR2 INRA
Directeur de thèse : Alain BOISSY, DR2 INRA
Financements : ANR / INRA – Département PHASE
École Doctorale : Sciences de la Vie et de la Santé de l’Université de Clermont-Ferrand
Contacts : A. Boissy (04 73 62 42 98 ; Alain.Boissy@clermont.inra.fr) ou V. Deiss (04 73 62
43 99 ; Veronique.Deiss@clermont.inra.fr) ou secrétariat (04 73 62 41 47)

Date limite de réception des candidatures : 20 Juin 2009
Dossier de candidature : un curriculum vitae et une lettre de motivations montrant l’adéquation de la candidature avec le profil proposé.

Contexte

La question du bien-être de l’animal d’élevage ne se pose que si l’on reconnaît à celui-ci le statut d’être sensible et réactif. Cela revient à considérer que l’animal est capable d’émotions, minimisant ses émotions négatives (peur, frustration…) tout en recherchant celles positives (plaisir…) (Dawkins 2001, Duncan 1996). En plus des émotions qui sont fugaces par définition, il existe des états affectifs persistants qui conditionnent la manière dont l’animal perçoit et réagit à son environnement (Lazarus 1991). Cependant, comme le soulignent Dawkins (2001) et Dantzer (2002), la prise en compte du bien-être animal en élevage s’est généralement limitée aux indicateurs de stress sans pour autant pouvoir les relier à l’existence d'états affectifs. Il est donc nécessaire de passer de la simple description des réactions de l’animal à la compréhension de ses propres états affectifs (Désiré et al 2002, Mendl et Paul 2004). Sur la base de théories développées en psychologie cognitive (Scherer 2001), nous avons pu montrer sur ovins que des processus cognitifs simples sont à l’origine des émotions (Boissy et al 2007). Par ailleurs, des travaux en psychologie montrent combien les émotions peuvent en retour influencer les processus cognitifs (Mendl et al 2001) et ce d’autant plus durablement que l’expérience émotionnelle persiste (Paul et al 2005). Il semble en être de même chez l’animal puisque des travaux sur rongeurs rapportent que des animaux stressés présentent une altération de leurs capacités à évaluer et à prendre des décisions (Harding et al 2004, Pardon et al 2000). Les données sur les animaux d’élevage font cependant défaut. La thèse proposée vise à analyser l’effet d’un stress répété sur la modulation des capacités émotionnelles et cognitives, et à explorer l’efficacité d’une thérapie comportementale pour contrecarrer les effets délétères du stress. L’approche multidisciplinaire (éthologie cognitive, psychophysiologie, neuroendocrinologie, psychopharmacologie) sera réalisée sur les ovins considérés à la fois comme espèce-cible et espèce-modèle.

La thèse s’articule en trois volets.

Le volet 1 consiste à étudier les répercussions immédiates d’une émotion négative sur les fonctions cognitives (jugement, apprentissage et mémoire) de l’animal. Le protocole d’induction d’émotions repose sur le cadre conceptuel (Désiré et al 2002) inspiré des théories de l’évaluation (Scherer 2001). Les biais de jugement seront estimés à partir de l’exposition à des situations ambiguës (Paul et al 2005). La réactivité émotionnelle et les performances cognitives seront évaluées à partir de tests dont certains sont déjà validés. Le cas échéant, une approche psychopharmacologique sera entreprise pour distinguer les composantes émotionnelle et cognitive dans les comportements mesurés en test.

Description du projet de thèse

Cette thèse fait partie intégrante d’un projet financé par l’ANR démarrant à l’automne 2009. Un modèle de stress chronique sera développé dans un premier volet en analysant comment l’accumulation d’émotions négatives (induites par la contention, l’alimentation retardée ou momentanément inaccessible, le changement de parc, etc., tous ces événements étant réalisés de manière imprévisible et/ou incontrôlable) peut modifier de manière durable les fonctions émotionnelles et cognitives. Les conséquences seront étudiées : i) sur la modification des réactions comportementales et physiologiques (axe corticotrope, système neurovégétatif) à des événements soudains et non familiers, ii) sur la persistance de biais cognitifs, et iii) sur l’altération des capacités d’apprentissage et/ou de mémorisation.

Dans un second volet, il s’agira d’explorer si une expérience émotionnelle positive peut atténuer les perturbations émotionnelles et cognitives induites par le stress chronique. Les émotions positives seront induites par la capacité à prédire l’arrivée d’une récompense telle que la distribution d’aliment, l’accès à une litière propre et l’introduction de partenaires de jeu (i.e. « anticipations positives » Keeling et al 2008). A l’issue de la période de traitement, les déficits émotionnels et cognitifs induits par le stress seront évalués à partir des tests comportementaux définis dans le volet 1. L’efficacité du protocole d’anticipations positives pour contrecarrer les effets délétères du stress chronique sera appréciée par comparaison avec les effets d’un traitement pharmacologique aux antidépresseurs appliqué sur d’autres animaux également exposés au modèle de stress chronique.

Environnement scientifique

La partie expérimentale de ce projet sera réalisée au sein de l’équipe URH-ACS, sous la direction d’A. Boissy et en interaction avec V. Deiss (stress à l’abattage et facteurs expérientiels) et I. Veissier (stress en élevage et apprentissage). Le doctorant bénéficiera du support et des compétences des trois ateliers techniques de l’équipe (atelier d’analyse du comportement, atelier de dosages biologiques et atelier d’analyse de l’activité cardiaque). Il disposera également des installations expérimentales de l’unité et du savoir-faire des animaliers particulièrement sensibilisés à l’analyse du comportement animal. En outre, le doctorant bénéficiera de la collaboration avec l’équipe « Comportement Neurobiologie et Adaptation » de l’UMR INRA PRC, Nouzilly, avec l’équipe « Troubles affectifs : des neurosciences fondamentales à la clinique » de l’Unité 930 INSERM de l’Université de Tours (spécialiste des approches psychopharmacologiques des états de stress chronique), et l’équipe « éthologie animale et humaine » de l’UMR CNRS de l’Université de Rennes1. De plus, il sera pleinement intégré au groupe de travail Émotion-Cognition du réseau scientifique INRA Agri-bien être (http://wcentre.tours.inra.fr/BienEtre/accueil.htm). Le doctorant bénéficiera également du rapprochement avec le SLUniversité d’Uppsala (L. Keeling, SUE) qui développe un programme sur l’induction et l’évaluation des émotions positives sur animaux, et avec l’équipe de l’Université de Bristol (M. Mendl et E. Paul, UK) spécialiste des biais cognitifs chez l’homme et les animaux de laboratoire.

Formation et compétences requises pour candidater
Master2 Recherche en éthologie animale
Goût pour le contact avec l’animal, excellentes qualités relationnelles et organisationnelles pour le travail en équipe, compétences avérées pour la communication scientifique orale et écrite, et connaissances souhaitées mais non indispensables en productions animales