Hiring Organization:
Date Posted:
2010-04-11
Position Description:
I am seeking a volunteer research to help with the collecting data for my dissertation project on feeding ecology of ring-tailed lemurs over a period of about 9 months. My research will be at the Tsimanampetsotsa National Park (TNP) in southwestern Madagascar. TNP is a VERY remote site, where there is no electricity, running water, or phone/internet reception. Living conditions are as rustic as it gets- we will be camping, but there aren’t actually any camping facilities.
Working conditions will consist of 10-12 hour days collecting focal animal data, plant samples, and lemur fecal samples. We will collect data 5 days per week, process samples one day per week, and have one day off to relax, maintain camp, wash clothes, etc.
TNP is a dry forest, but it can get very hot (50 degrees celcius!) during the day and quite cold at night (4 degrees celcius). This work will be difficult, but an amazing experience, and lots of fun for the right person.
Qualifications/Experience:
Animals are not collared so an ability to recognize animals based on facial features and other distinguishing characteristics is essential.
Also, ability to indentify (or learn to identify) plant species is necessary. French language skills are desirable.
The successful applicant should have the following qualifications:
1) A strong background/interest in animal behavior
2) Experience working outdoors
3) LOTS of patients and ability to roll with the ups and downs of international travel and research
4) Ability to cohabit with large spiders, scorpions, giant cockroaches, mosquitoes, sweat bees, snakes, and all other varieties of creepy crawlers.
5) Ability to subsist on rice and beans with little else (there is "little else" available in southern Madagascar)
6) Be in reasonably good physical condition
Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):
Camping fees and very basic field food will be paid for. International travel, visas, medications, medical insurance, and any required items other items will have to be self-funded. I am continuing to apply for grant monies, so it is possible that further funding may become available.
Term of Appointment:
August 2010- April 2011
Application Deadline:
until filled
Comments:
Please send a cover letter, CV, and the names of two referees.
Contact Information:
Marni LaFleur
233 UCB
Boulder, CO 80303
USA
E-mail Address:
marni.lafleur@colorado.edu