Hiring Organization:
Henry Doorly Zoo, Queen's University Belfast, University of Calgary
Date Posted:
2010-08-04
Position Description:
A collaborative project between researchers at the Henry Doorly Zoo Center for Conservation and Research, Queen’s University Belfast, and the University of Calgary seeks two qualified and highly motivated research assistants. The project involves following social groups of critically endangered black-and-white ruffed lemurs (Varecia variegata) in the Kianjavato-Vatovavy landscape in southeastern Madagascar.
The primary responsibilities of the volunteers include: 1) collect behavioural, feeding, and ranging data on two social groups 5-6 days/week, up to 9 hours/day; 2) collect phenological data in established vegetation plots one day every two weeks; 3) coordinate collection and storage of fecal samples for DNA analyses from non-study individuals in several forest fragments every two weeks (samples will be collected by assistants); 4) download data by VHF radio transfer from GPS tracking data loggers once day every two weeks; and 5) enter and transmit data to the principal investigators via internet every two weeks.
Volunteers will be trained by a principal investigator and current field team leader. Volunteers also will work with an experienced and very helpful local team of assistants for all activities. Some English is spoken by the team, but French language skills will be useful; it should also be possible for volunteers to learn to communicate in Malagasy during their stay. The terrain is quite steep and the weather is typically very warm and humid, particularly December-April. Adequate physical fitness for these conditions is required. There are no dangerous fauna, except some rare spiders and scorpions. However, precautions should be made to avoid tropical diseases (e.g., malaria). Volunteers are required to obtain their own medications (anti-malarial prophylaxis, etc.), vaccinations, and insurance. There are nine lemur species present, and a rich variety of other endemics (birds, chameleons, tenrecs, etc.).
Research is based at the newly-established Kianjavato Ahmanson Field Station (KAFS). Infrastructure upgrades are ongoing, however conditions are currently relatively rustic. Volunteers will sleep in their own tents under a fixed shelter, and meals are basic camp fare (be prepared to eat rice at each meal). There is generally good cellular phone reception at the station and in some parts of the forest. Volunteers will need to obtain their own phones and will have to pay for their own calls (even international rates are reasonable). A generator is present to power laptops, recharge batteries, etc. Internet will only be available at internet cafés during twice monthly trips to larger towns.
Qualifications/Experience:
As indicated, adequate physical fitness is required. We prefer volunteers with at least a BA or BSc in the biological or environmental sciences (including biological anthropology). Some independent research experience will be an advantage, as will work or travel experience in tropical countries. A willingness to work in isolated conditions, the ability to solve problems independently, and dedication to positive and respectful working relationships are required.
Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):
No salary is offered, but in-country permits, food, and transportation will be provided. In addition, we will reimburse the volunteers for their air travel (up to $3000 USD) and offer a $1500 stipend upon successful completion of the nine-month contract.
Term of Appointment:
: A nine-month commitment is required (September 2010-May 2011). A break during the December holidays is a possibility.
Application Deadline:
August 15, 2010 (as soon as possible)
Comments:
Applicants should send a letter of interest, curriculum vitae, and contact information for two references to Ed Louis (edlo@omahazoo.com), Steig Johnson (steig.johnson@ucalgary.ca), and Alison Cameron (noremacnosila@gmail.com)
Contact Information:
Ed Louis
Center for Conservation and Research, Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo, 3701 South 10th Street
Omaha, NE 68107
USA
Telephone Number:
+1 (402) 738-2095
Fax Number:
+1 (402) 733-0490