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