Hiring Organization:
University of Utah
Date Posted:
2011-09-19
Position Description:
I am seeking a volunteer research assistant to help with data collection for my PhD. The project will investigate the foraging behavior of vervet monkeys as annual, prescribed, burns alter their home ranges. The research assistant will work daily with project personnel collecting behavioral and ecological data using hand-held GPS devices. Volunteers will be trained to use GPS software, identify the individuals of two groups of vervets, and plant and animal identification for prey species. A minimum availability of 6 months is required for this position, starting in January 2012.
The work at the field site is physically and mentally demanding. Interested individuals should be physically fit, and able to work collaboratively with team members. Volunteers will be expected to work 8-12 hours per day 5-6 days per week. The successful applicant will live at the Loskop Dam Nature reserve field station in South Africa. The field station is equipped with basic amenities, including the internet. This position is an excellent opportunity to gain experience collecting behavioral data on free-ranging primates
Qualifications/Experience:
1. An interest in animal behavior and ecology
2. Hard working/self motivated
3. High level of enthusiasm, commitment, and motivation
4. Above average level of physical fitness – project area includes rough and varied terrain
5. Ability to work both independently and within a team of local and South African/US researchers
6. Experience working on a field research project (preferable, but not required)
7. Foreign travel or living/work experience (preferable but not required)
8. B.A. or equivalent in animal behavior, zoology, anthropology or other relevant discipline
9. Commitment of 6 months
Salary/funding:
This is a volunteer position and as such no wage or stipend is currently available. The volunteer is responsible for their return flight to Johannesburg, SA (approx $1,500.00 USD), food (approx $200.00 per month USD), lodging costs ($90.00 per month USD), visas ($72.00), and comprehensive travel and medical insurance. Additional funding for this project has been requested, and if funded, will be used to reimburse volunteer costs.
Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):
All project-related in-country travel will be supported; volunteers and researchers will have weekly access to nearby amenities. The Loskop Dam field station has bunkhouses, a common area, library, Internet, and also a full kitchen.
Term of Appointment:
Early January 2012 through mid July 2012. Preference will be given to candidates who can commit for the duration of the project (six months).
Application Deadline:
October 15th, 2011
Comments:
Candidates should send a cover letter, CV, and contact details for 2 references. See http://www.unisa.ac.za/Default.asp?Cmd=ViewContent&ContentID=26634 for photos of research station.
Contact Information:
Nicole Herzog
University of Utah, Department of Anthropology
Salt Lake City, UT 84112
USA
Telephone Number:
(406) 546-1434
E-mail Address:
nicole.herzog@anthro.utah.edu