Hiring Organization:
Lemur Conservation Foundation
Date Posted:
2010-09-23
Position Description:
The Lemur Conservation Foundation (LCF) is dedicated to the preservation and conservation of lemurs through captive breeding, non-invasive scientific research, education, and reintroduction. At LCF’s 100-acre, non-public, AZA certified Myakka City Lemur Reserve in Florida, the lemurs live naturally in two fenced, pristine forests, yet are readily available for educational and research projects conducted by undergraduate and graduate students from national universities. LCF maintains the Mianatra Center for Lemur Studies at the reserve, a learning center and virtual and digital library about all things lemur that is open for research and education by appointment. In Madagascar, LCF partners with Tampolo Forest Station on the island’s northeast coast, to encourage environmental sustainability and education to help forestall deforestation in addition to promoting collaborative research projects and a researcher exchange program.
The reserve is currently home to seven different species of lemurs in both semi-free ranging habitats and traditional captive habitats. Please note that the Myakka City Lemur Reserve does not house education program animals and physical contact with the lemurs is not allowed. The Director, Research and Education is seeking trained, experienced research students to assist in a study group introductions and habitat use of ringtailed lemur, Lemur catta, and Sanford’s brown lemur, Eulemur sanfordi. Responsibilities will include using focal animal sampling and group scans to collect data five days a week and regular data entry. Project specific training will be provided and research assistants must pass inter-observer reliability tests prior to collecting project data. Students will hone a broad range of research and conservation skills in preparation for further education or conservation activities. If committing to more than three months, research assistants will have the opportunity to design and conduct their own research project at the reserve.
Qualifications/Experience:
To qualify for this competitive position, applicants must have a bachelors degree in a related discipline and have successfully completed coursework in field methods. Experience in field research is preferred. Applicants should be comfortable living in community housing in a rural setting and must have their own vehicle for transportation to and from town (for groceries, etc.) Applicants should be able to handle the challenges of field work, including uneven terrain, flooded terrain, insect pests, and semi-tropical weather conditions; applicants must provide their own health insurance and provide proof of a negative Mantoux (Tb) test conducted no more than nine month prior to the starting date.
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter articulating the following:
• What training or coursework have you had in field methods, research methods, or wildlife research? Have you participated in other research projects? If so, please provide details.
• What qualities do you possess that you feel would make you an asset to this institution?
• What life experiences have you had that you believe have prepared you for this research opportunity?
• What is your availability? Please provide desired start and end dates.
Applicants should also send a current resume detailing education and other qualifications, including work history and any other relevant experience such as military or volunteer service and an unofficial copy of the applicant’s transcript. Two professional letters of recommendation that include a candid assessment of the candidate’s aptitude, qualifications, background, and suitability for the program are required and should be sent directly by the authors.
All application materials should be sent to the Monica Mogilewsky, Director, Research & Operations, PO Box 249, Myakka City, 34251. Alternatively, materials can be sent electronically to manager@lemurreserve.org. Please use "Research Assistant" followed by the name of the applicant as the subject line for e-mail correspondence.
Salary/funding:
This is an unpaid position.
Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):
On site housing is provided. Research Assistants share accommodations with interns and other researchers, all of whom live together in a four bedroom house and share cooking and cleaning duties. Each bedroom may be shared with one or two other students. A living arrangement such as this is conducive to open discussion and interaction among peers, and home life is often a continuation of the day in the field; therefore, it is essential that candidates can combine these two areas. Field equipment and materials will be provided.
Term of Appointment:
Minimum 3 month committment
Application Deadline:
Applications accepted on a rolling basis.
Contact Information:
Monica Mogilewsky
PO Box 249
Myakka City, FL 34251
USA
Telephone Number:
941-322-8494
Fax Number:
941-322-9264
Website:
http://www.lemurreserve.org
E-mail Address:
manager@lemurreserve.org