Hiring Organization:
Dzanga Sangha Project
Date Posted:
2009-04-24
Position Description:
Two volunteer field assistants are required to help with the habituation of western gorillas and/ or agile mangabeys at the Bai Hokou and Mongambe camp in the Dzanga-Sangha Dense Forest Special Reserve, Central African Republic. In addition to western lowland gorillas and mangabeys, the region is exceptional both florally and faunally and renowned for its high mammal densities including forest elephants, chimpanzees, leopards, bongos, forest buffaloes and various monkey and duiker species. Responsibilities will primarily include contributing to the habituation of new gorilla groups or the mangabey group, and collecting data on their diet, behavior, and ranging. Additional responsibilities may include conducting phenology, participating in large mammal surveys, and data entry. Field conditions are very remote, with limited access to modern conveniences ('running water' is a nearby waterfall and solar electricity, intermittent), fresh foods and health care. The candidate must be physically fit and may be required to work long hours in the dense forest under challenging conditions. Daily contact with potentially dangerous animals such as elephants, gorillas, forest buffaloes and venomous snakes can be expected.
Qualifications/Experience:
Bachelor’s or master’s level students seeking to gain experience in conservation biology, primatology and/or zoology are encouraged to apply. Opportunities to conduct small, independent thesis projects are available providing that studies can be carried out alongside habituation work and that research questions are in-line with the philosophies of the PHP and DSP. Previous field experience would be extremely valuable, though openings can be considered entry-level and a 'stepping stone' for someone who is serious about a career in conservation, field research and/or wildlife eco-tourism. Additionally, candidates are required to be motivated, responsible, flexible, mature and amicable, with an ability to work as part of a multi-national team. Knowledge of French is extremely useful, though a commitment to learn the local Bantu language, Sango, may suffice. Emergency evacuation insurance is mandatory (e.g. S.O.S. Insurance co.)
Salary/funding:
Candidates are required to seek independent funding (to cover flight, short and long-term visa, and food costs).
Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):
The project will provide transport to and from the capital, Bangui. Accommodation in camp based in a shared basic wooden huts. Communication with home countries is limited to email via satellite phone (though internet at the Project's headquarters in Bayanga is available). Conditional on satisfying the position's requirements, the return international flight ticket will be reimbursed on completion of the 1-year period.
Term of Appointment:
One year starting mid 2009
Application Deadline:
31/05/09
Comments:
Please send a letter of interest, CV and 2 reference letters to the email address below. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Contact Information:
Angelique Todd, WWF Tourism and Primate Habituation Advisor
Dzanga Sangha Project c/o BP 1053
Bangui
Central African Republic
Website:
http://dzanga-sangha.org
E-mail Address:
phpapplications@yahoo.co.uk