Hiring Organization:
Oxford Brookes University
Date Posted:
2009-01-30
Position Description:
We are looking for one or two research assistants to join a PhD project investigating the ecology of ringtailed and brown lemurs living in natural sympatry at Bealoka and Berenty forests - FortDauphin. Over a period of at least six months, this position will involve the habituation and identification of ringtailed and brown lemurs groups, as well as a range of behavioural and ecological data collection. The principal investigator for this research is Josia Razafindramanana conducting a PhD supervised by Pr. Simon Bearder (Oxford Brookes University) and Dr. Alison Jolly (Sussex University).
This is a great opportunity for a student interested in a graduate program in biology, conservation, ecology or anthropology. You will learn how to record behavioral data, track primates using sound as well as radio telemetry. This project is unique in that it involves more than just an opportunity to observe behavior. Assistants will learn various field methods relevant for the study of animal behavior and behavioral ecology, as well as study design and what it takes to maintain the daily operations of a field project.
Berenty and Bealoka forests are located in Southeastern Madagascar. While in the field, assistants will be responsible for conducting full-day behavioral observations and recording GPS ranging coordinates. We will also be collecting plant parts samples for nutritional analysis, and collecting monthly phenology data for several areas of the forest. Independent projects are highly encouraged as long as they fit within the data collection protocol of the project. Please email me at r_josia@hotmail.com for a more detailed description of the project and to discuss how your ideas can fit in with the data collection scheme.
Camp conditions in Bealoka are very basic. We live in tents. However in Berenty, we have nice and comfortable camp. There is phone reception in both forests. And research assistants are able to go to the town every two weeks where they can check their emails.
Qualifications/Experience:
Applicants should have a B.S. or B.A. in Physical Anthropology, Biology, Ecology, Animal Behavior, or other related field. Previous field experience on primates is desirable, although not essential. Knowledge and experience of lemur’s behaviour would be particularly advantageous.
Experience with animals, camping, and/or working outdoors is strongly preferred. Knowledge of French is helpful, but not necessary; however, a willingness to learn and use Malagasy is expected. Experience with collecting systematic data in a scientific context is preferred, and a strong interest in primate behaviour and ecology is a must.
In addition applicants should: Be physically fit and strong mentally as days in the field are long and physically challenging. Have good social skills and the ability to work individually and in a team as appropriate. Be open to and comfortable adapting to a foreign culture. Be friendly, patient, enthusiastic and committed to primatological research.
Salary/funding:
None. Applicants must provide: Round-trip airfare to Madagascar (cost varies) - Immunizations and malarial prophylaxis - Malagasy visa (circa US$80) - Personal equipment (field clothes, binoculars, watch)
Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):
None provided at this time. However, a refund of internal plane ticket (round trip Antananarivo-FortDauphin) could be possible, depending on availability of grant money, after completion of the full period.
Term of Appointment:
A minimum of 6 months commitment is required although longer placements would be encouraged. Positions begin in March 2009 but multiple positions will be filled throughout the year.
Application Deadline:
Until positions are filled.
Comments:
If interested, please email (r_josia@hotmail.com) a recent copy of your CV (including referees), a cover letter describing your research interests and experience, and your availability for this position. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Contact Information:
Josia Razafindramanana
42 Lodge Close
Marston - Oxford OX3 0QP
United Kingdom
Telephone Number:
+44 (0)7969 402571
Website:
http://www.winchester.ac.uk/?page=5969
E-mail Address:
r_josia@hotmail.com