Hiring Organization:
Brandi Wren, Ph.D. Candidate, Purdue University
Date Posted:
Date Posted:
2009-02-24
Position Description:
Position Description:
I am looking for volunteer research assistants for a project titled "Behavioral Ecology of Primate-Parasite Interactions" that is being conducted at the Mogalakwena River Reserve in South Africa. My research examines the impacts of grooming behaviors and interspecific associations on parasite transmission patterns in wild vervet monkeys (Chlorocebus aethiops). I am currently habituating 3 vervet groups at the reserve for this study. The project will use the following types of data collection and analysis to examine whether grooming and associating with other species increases the risk of transmission of specific types of gastrointestinal parasites: focal animal sampling, ad lib sampling, continuous recording, fecal sampling, GIS analysis, community surveys, classical parasitology techniques, molecular (PCR) species confirmation for parasites, and immunofluorescent microscopy. Assistants will help with collection of GPS data, collection of fecal samples, data on interspecific associations using a rangefinder and angleboard/compass, and (depending on length of stay and/or prior experience/training) behavioral data.
Qualifications/Experience:
Qualifications/Experience:
No prior training is absolutely necessary as I am willing to train those who desire to learn, however assistants must have the desire and willingness to learn all required data collection methods. An interest in primate behavior, ecology, anthropology, wildlife biology, wildlife diseases, or related fields is a plus, as is experience collecting behavioral data and knowledge of basic primate behavior. Assistants must also be capable of working long hours in hot weather. This research requires a good deal of hiking in direct sun. The research site is mildly remote, with limited access to cell phone and internet reception.
Salary/funding:
Salary/funding:
No financial support available.
See below.
Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):Unfortunately I cannot provide financial support for lodging/meals/travel, however very affordable accommodation facilities are available through the Mogalakwena Research Centre at the expense of the volunteer. Meals may either be prepared by the volunteer or arranged at very affordable rates by the lodging staff. Please contact Nina Woods at research@mogalakwena.com for more information.
Term of Appointment:
Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):Unfortunately I cannot provide financial support for lodging/meals/travel, however very affordable accommodation facilities are available through the Mogalakwena Research Centre at the expense of the volunteer. Meals may either be prepared by the volunteer or arranged at very affordable rates by the lodging staff. Please contact Nina Woods at research@mogalakwena.com for more information.
Term of Appointment:
Minimum of 8 weeks; project runs now (Feb. 2009) through at least Feb. 2010
Application Deadline:
Application Deadline:
ASAP; open until filled
Comments:
Comments:
For more information about the project or the position, contact Brandi Wren at bwren@purdue.edu
For more information about lodging costs at the reserve, contact Nina Woods, Research Manager, Mogalakwena River Reserve at research@mogalakwena.com
Contact Information:
Contact Information:
Brandi WrenDept. of Anthropology, Purdue University, 700 West State St., Suite 219West Lafayette, IN 47907-2059USA
Telephone Number:765-496-7400 OR 00-27-72-837-7849
Fax Number:765-496-7411
Website:http://http://web.ics.purdue.edu/~bwren/Research.html
E-mail Address:bwren@purdue.edu
Telephone Number:765-496-7400 OR 00-27-72-837-7849
Fax Number:765-496-7411
Website:http://http://web.ics.purdue.edu/~bwren/Research.html
E-mail Address:bwren@purdue.edu