Hiring Organization:
Date Posted:
2010-10-11
Position Description:
You will be assisting the principal researchers at the site in the following types of activities: primate surveys, assessments of habitats and food resources, monitoring primate behavior, and trap and release of certain primate species. Currently the focus of this research is on tamarin monkeys (Saguinus imperator and Saguinus fuscicollis) and callimico (Callimico goeldii), although information may also be collected on other primates. The field season runs from February until July and we are looking for research assistants throughout that period. Remember that competition for summer posts is high while it is less tricky during the spring.
Here are some of the specific tasks you will participate in:
1. Line transect surveys of primates
2. Daily follows of individual monkey groups
3. Behavioral observations during follows
4. Positional data recording (GPS) on ranging patterns of groups
5. Vegetation sampling
6. Recording locations and monitoring plant feeding sites
4. Setting up and monitoring traps
5. Assisting during processing of animals once trapped (when applicable). This will include:
a. Photographing individuals
b. Recording data as obtained from the individuals
c. Storing DNA samples (painlessly, and with NO harm to the individual)
This is a great opportunity for a student interested in a graduate program in biology, conservation, ecology or anthropology. You will learn how to conduct surveys, record behavioral data, evaluate habitats and food resources, identify and track primates by sight and sound as well as radio telemetry, and really learn to survive in the rainforest. This project is unique in that it involves more than just observations of behavior. Depending on the season, volunteers may also have the opportunity to learn how to handle wild animals (while keeping in mind both your own and their safety) and record morphometrical and health data from wild monkeys. On-site training will take about 1-2 months.
Typical Activities
Surveys
For surveying we will walk trails and record information on observations of different primate species with reference to their location along the trails and in particular habitats. We will also collect information on group sizes and compositions. Surveys will typically occur from 6 am to 10 am, and from 1 pm to 5 pm.
Trapping
During trapping sessions, research assistants will assist in trap construction, baiting and monitoring. Traps will be set up in locations frequented by groups and every morning will be baited with fruit. Volunteers will then trade off shits and monitor traps for activity, noting the behavior of monkeys in response to the trap. We will work from 6am to 5pm every day and either return to the camp for lunch or take it with us.
Behavior Monitoring
During behavior sessions, volunteers will get the opportunity to learn to track primates by sound and sight. Follows will include tracking of the animals from their sleeping site one morning to the sleeping site they choose that night. These days will be 8-10 hours long and we'll be on the move except for when the monkeys take naps (usually in the afternoons), a welcome respite for both the researchers and the primates!)
Qualifications/Experience:
Ideally, volunteers should have past experience working or living in a tropical country, preferably in South America. More importantly, a background in science that allows you to understand the scientific method, basic research terminology, and maintenance of data records is vital.
Past Experience
The qualifications we are looking for in a research assistant are:
Degree or expected degree in a life science or anthropology
Knowledge of at least basic Spanish
Good physical and mental health
Ability to hike long distances (> 6 miles) in a day
Ability to carry a moderately heavy pack
Cheerful, optimistic approach to work
Ability to be independent of family and friends for extended periods
Commitment to the project during days of work (5/6 days a week)
Ability to work with Microsoft Office and Excel for data entry/backup
No fear of snakes, insects, etc.
Salary/funding:
Welcome to the world of field research. Currently, there is no research stipend and volunteers are responsible for getting to the field site and paying for their stay there. Looking into grants and scholarships will be a practical thing to do at this point (Explorer's Fund, National Geographic, college specific travel grants, etc.). For a long-term volunteer some of the site fees may be covered—this option can be discussed when the application is processed. These things are subject to the availability of funds, which in turn are based on grants. We will update this section with regards to reimbursements as decisions on outstanding grants are received. We are willing to write reports on your work in case you require them for college credit.
Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):
None Provided. Check the website for details on costs and travel. http://primatesperu.com/howyoucanhelp/volunteerreq
Term of Appointment:
2-month minimum, longer stays are encouraged.
Application Deadline:
November 15, 2010, but we're accepting and reading applications now at http://primatesperu.com/howyoucanhelp/raoa
Comments:
Fill out the online application (you will need your resume on hand) and ensure that you can get a letter of recommendation emailed to us directly from your reference within 2 weeks of filling out the application. Our website has a lot of information about the program, including travel and costs, so please, first explore the website before contacting us with questions. If you have other questions, email us at primatesperu@gmail.com.
Contact Information:
Mini Watsa
USA
Website:
http://www.primatesperu.com
E-mail Address:
primatesperu@gmail.com