Volunteer

Hiring Organization:

Colobus Trust, Diani Beach, Kenya

Date Posted:

2011-11-25

Position Description:

The Colobus Trust is a conservation organization designed to promote the conservation, preservation and protection of primates like the nationally threatened Angolan colobus monkey (Colobus angolensis palliatus) and its coastal forest habitat in southern Kenya. The Trust was established in 1997 in response to an outcry from local residents about the high number of deaths of the colobus monkeys in the Diani area. Now the Trust has numerous projects concerning the wildlife and the citizens of Kenya, including animal welfares, biological/ecological research, community development and education, forest protection and enrichment and eco-tourism awareness programs.

Areas of our work that volunteers will be able to become involved in include but are not limited to the following:-

1) Primate Rescue

The Trust responds to animal welfare calls for of all primate species (colobus, vervet Sykes and baboons). Frequently these are road injuries, electrocution, snares and cases of animal cruelty. We have a small veterinarian clinic on site at the Trust for when cases require intervention.

2) Long-Term Injury Care & Rehabilitation

In as many cases as possible, the Trust treats and returns the primate to its home troop as soon as possible. Generally, there is little contact between those monkeys in for treatment and the colobus team, in order that their ‘wildness’ is promoted

3) Long term Rehabilitation

In recent years we have seen an increase in the primate pet trade on the coast. We now offer long term rehabilitation to primates who have been kept as pets in order that we can de-humanise them and return them to the wild.

4) Bridge Building

When the Trust was founded, one of the main threats to Diani's colobus monkeys was death caused by motor accidents. The home ranges of these arboreal primates have been bisected by a major road, and they are subsequently very prone to road injuries whilst crossing through their ranges

5) Electrocution Hotspot Monitoring

After the success of the colobridge campaign, the main cause of death and injury for the colobus is electrocution on the uninsulated power lines in the Diani area. The Trust works with the Kenyan Power and Lighting Company to regularly cut back the trees beside the power lines with the goal to have the lines insulated.

6) Human - Wildlife Conflict / Pest Management

Since the Trust began its work with the colobus, it has become increasingly aware human-primate conflicts in the area. In the past 20 years, deforestation in Diani has been rapid, and some primates have adapted to their new environment by stealing food from tourists, hotel kitchens, and waste sites. Due to this local residents and hoteliers alike have found that the monkeys are a nuisance and some have resorted to control measures that have proven both ineffective and inhumane. These include painting baboons with glossy paints, tying bells around their necks and stomachs, poisoning, trapping, clubbing and shooting monkeys. The Colobus Trust works with those people affected to design effective and humane deterrents that actually work.

7) Forest Protection

Over 80% of Diani's forests have already been lost to developments during the last 25 years. Remaining forests are fragmented and isolated. The Trust has an indigenous seedling nursery and we would like to expand this aspect of the Trust by encouraging hotel owners and local residents to replenish the natural environment.

8) Educational Workshops

Educating the next generation of Kwale district residents, we run weekly education workshops with 33 of the local schools, teaching the children about the beauty of the wildlife surrounding them and the importance of the forest.

9) Eco-Tourism

The Colobus Cottage boasts an information and education centre, which is also open to the public for specific hours each week. We have full-time staff members trained as tour-guides, who give an education talk about the Trust, as well as a tour of our Nature Trail and colobus information.

10) Research

Research projects that have been carried out at the Trust include studies on colobus feeding ecology, primate censuses, behavioural monitoring, forest disturbance surveys and hotel pest assessments. The current conservation manager is a PhD student and is able to offer advice and guidance and we are particularly interested in receiving applications from students wishing to conduct their MSc thesis research.

The Colobus Trust is based in Diani, Kenya and offers a unique opportunity to live in a beautiful beach and forested area, with many western comforts. Our accommodation can house a maximum of 12 volunteers in 3 single sex bedrooms in a communal house, hot/cold showers, 3 meals a day, laundry and housekeeping. There is good mobile phone and internet coverage, and using Sarfricom, the local network supplier, text messages to the UK are very cheap (approx 8p).

The volunteer working week is Monday – Friday, 8am – 5pm with turns taken to care for the animals on a Sunday. Saturday is given as a day off. Obviously if you volunteer in a research position hours and days will vary according to your project.

Qualifications/Experience:

Essential requirements

1. Interest and knowledge in animal behavior and welfare, conservation and habitat preservation, preferably with a university level qualification in a relevant subject

2. Minimum age of 21

3. English speaking

4. Field experience, preferably in a tropical climate

5. Respect for the project you will be working for

In addition, applicants must have certain QUALITIES: they must be energetic, patient, open, responsible, flexible, healthy, able to work independently but also as part of a team, be highly motivated, responsible and not easily distracted by the holiday mentality found here in Diani. Applicants must also be hardworking and able to keep going, and do so cheerfully! Our schedule is demanding and unconventional. The position is not ideal for someone who needs a lot of personal time, or for someone who easily feels lonely. The ideal applicant must be comfortable being unplugged and a distance from easy communication with the outside world, although there is good mobile phone and e-mail communication, but sometimes things just don't work. They must also have above average resistance to social/psychological stress with a tolerance towards local customs and beliefs and be comfortable with other conditions and risks that are simply part of tropical fieldwork, such as limited healthcare, monotonous diet, rare confrontations with noxious plants or animals.

Salary/funding:

None - volunteer placement

Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):

This is a volunteer position and as such no wage or stipend is available. The volunteer is responsible for their return flight to Mombasa, visa, comprehensive travel and medical insurance and all field clothing. In addition the Trust requests a donation to cover your food and accommodation.

Length of Stay Euros

2 weeks 650

3 weeks 750

4 weeks 1000

5 weeks 1250

6 weeks 1450

7 weeks 1650

8 weeks 1850

9 weeks 2050

10 weeks 2100

11 weeks 2250

12 weeks 2400

Term of Appointment:

Year round

Application Deadline:

None

Comments:

To apply please e-mail your C.V. and application form (found on our website in the volunteer section) to the e-mail address below

Contact Information:

Andrea Donaldson

Kenya

Website:

http://www.colobustrust.org

E-mail Address:

conservation@colobustrust.org

Volunteer Research Assistants: Primate & Predator Project in South Africa

Hiring Organization:

Durham University

Date Posted:

2011-11-28

Position Description:

We’re looking for volunteer field assistants to help with ongoing research as part of the Primate & Predator Project based within the Soutpansberg Mountains of South Africa. Our study site has an abundance of all five species of South African primate: chacma baboon (Papio ursinus), vervet monkey (Cercopithcus aethiops), samango monkey (Cercopithecus mitis erythrarchcus), thick-tailed bushbaby (Otolemur crassicaudatus) and southern lesser bushbaby (Galago moholi). We are also fortunate that this montane environment supports one of the highest densities of leopard (Panthera pardus) recorded anywhere in Africa, and the leopard population, alongside other predators, is also an important focus of our research.

A major objective of our research is to examine the behavioural ecology of predator-prey interactions focussing on diurnal primates and their predators as a model system. Chacma baboons, vervet monkey and samango monkeys are all the focus on ongoing research at the site, with samango monkeys an important focus at present. However, volunteers may be involved with work on all three species. Volunteers will work alongside an experienced team of field biologists and will be involved in the following tasks:

1. Behavioural observations of habituated primates through full day follows and collection of standardized behavioural and demographic data from our study troops.

2. Experimental titrations of predation risk based on giving-up densities or predator detection experiments using predator models.

3. Habituation of new groups, sometimes tracking via VHF receivers to maintain contact.

4. Monitoring of primate groups via GPS collars. This will be a new element of our research in 2012 and volunteers may play an important role in setting and monitoring traps, tracking via VHF receivers, data download, and collar retrieval.

5. Phenological transects to estimate primate food availability.

6. General data entry and analysis and preparation of reports and papers for publication.

7. Volunteers may also have the opportunity to work on the predator element of the project and engage in camera trapping, GPS collar, or scat/dietary analysis.

The precise activities will vary depending on our recent requirements at the time. Please get in touch if you have specific interests in particular techniques or aspects of our research, since not all activities will be ongoing at all times.

Qualifications/Experience:

We are looking for volunteer research assistants with the following experience:

1. A background in biology/zoology/ecology or related field and an interest in the behaviour, ecology and conservation of primates and other mammals.

2. Physically fit, and capable of undertaking fieldwork in a mountainous environment, in hot temperatures at certain times of year. You should be able to comfortable cover 10-15km per day (often more) over rough and often steep terrain and capable of carrying a day pack these distances while collecting data.

3. Capable of working well as part of a team, under the authority of field research coordinators, and be a valuable team member.

4. Reliable, responsible and motivated when it comes to following research protocols and methodologies, and an ability to work at unsociable hours when necessary.

5. Relevant experience of the project’s field techniques and of working in southern Africa is desirable but not essential.

Salary/funding:

No salary is provided, although payment for contributing to certain elements of our research project may be possible on an ad hoc basis. At other times you will need to cover your own food and accommodation costs at the research station. All research equipment will be provided. Volunteer research assistants will also be responsible for their own airfare and travel to South Africa and medical/travel insurance.

Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):

Housing is available at the Lajuma Research Centre which is equipped with hot showers, flush toilets, a gas stove, fridge, tapped water, washing machine, gas, firewood and electricity (220V). Volunteers my join the town trip to Louis Trichardt (Makhado) once a week for shopping, visits to an internet café, landline phone calls, etc.

Term of Appointment:

Positions are available immediately. We are looking for volunteers who are able to commit for a minimum of 3 months, although positions may be held for up to 12 months or longer, depending on availability. Volunteers able to contribute for a minimum of 6 months may take responsibility for certain sub-projects, including data analysis and publication where appropriate.

Application Deadline:

To apply, please submit a CV and covering letter to the project email address (primate.predator@durham.ac.uk) outlining your suitability for the role, relevant experience and duration and timing of your availability. There is no specific deadline and applications will be accepted until positions are filled.

Contact Information:

Dr Russell Hill

Department of Anthropology, Durham University, Science Site

Durham DH1 3LE

United Kingdom

Website:

http://www.dur.ac.uk/r.a.hill/primate_and_predator_project.htm

E-mail Address:

primate.predator@durham.ac.uk

PhD Research Project

Sensory systems and spatial memory in weakly electric fish

Institution: Queen’s University Belfast, Dept/School/Faculty: School of Biological Sciences

PhD Supervisor: Dr R Holland (email:r.holland@qub.ac.uk),

Co-Supervisor: Prof R W Elwood

Application Deadline: 10 January 2012

Funding Availability: Awaiting Funding Decision/Possible External Funding (the succesfull applicant will compete for a limited number of DEL awards against other students)

Background:

Animal learning and memory is a subject with a long history of study in birds and mammals, but has received far less attention in other animal classes. Many animals learn about and map their surroundings using visual landmarks, but a small number of animals can also use other non-visual systems to learn about space. Fish represent an excellent model in this case as they can use other senses such as the lateral line, which detects pressure changes and weakly electric fish can use small, self-generated electric currents to probe their surroundings. These sensory systems have different constraints than vision, but how this affects the animal's ability to map its environment is poorly understood. Understanding the interaction between different sensory systems has significance for neurobiology and comparative animal cognition. Recent data also shows consistent behavioural variation in traits such as boldness and exploration in animals, which are of importance in gathering information to learn about the environment, but the adaptive significance of such behavioural variation is not yet clear. Understanding how behavioural traits influence the way animals use information for learning tasks has significant impact for animal welfare.

Research aims:

This project will compare visual and non-visual sensory modalities and how they are used to remember locations in space, using learning paradigms such as 2 alternative forced choice and t-maze, to test the relative constraints of the sensory system in learning about the environment. We will contrast learning between fish with different behavioural traits to investigate the effect of boldness on learning ability and mechanisms. 

Funding Notes:

There is a possibility that this project may be DEL funded (Department for Employment and Learning Studentships). For further information on eligibility for the above funding, please visit the following website: 

http://www.delni.gov.uk.

References:

Moller (2002) Multimodal sensory integration in weakly electric fish: a behavioural account. J. Physiol 96:547-556.

Walton and Moller (2010). Maze Learning and Recall in a Weakly Electric Fish, Mormyrus rume proboscirostris Boulenger (Mormyridae, Teleostei). Ethology 116 (2010) 904–919

Click here

Volonteer position

Pre-release research and training on Yellow baboon group (Papio cynocephalus)

Hiring Organization:

The Lilongwe Wildlife Centre

Position Description:

For our ongoing primate release program we are looking a student/ graduate who is interested in doing pre-release behavioral research on our next release group of about 30 Yellow baboons (Papio cynocephalus). Most of those animal came in from illegal trade or because they were injured. We aim to release this group again in September 2012.

For the whole release program we intend to follow the IUCN guidelines for re-introduction of non-human primates as close as possible. We endeavor to use as much as possible scientific based research to improve the success of our release program and share knowledge with other African rescue centers. Contributing to the LLWC Primate Release Programme offers exciting opportunities for those who want to help set standards for the implementation of primate releases, whilst also furthering African primate conservation.

The first part of this research project covers a release suitability analysis of all the individuals in the group and as the group as a whole. According to various parameters you examine to what extent individuals, and finally the group as a whole, are suitable for release back into the wild. Parameters you could think of are appropriate social behavior, social position in the group, foraging techniques, human avoidance and predator recognition and avoidance. Final result will be a report from all individuals and the group as a whole concerning the suitability for release, as well as recommendations for further pre-release training.

The second part of the project concerns the pre-release training of the whole group. Based on the results of the release suitability analyses you continue preparing the group for their release. This could involve predator avoidance training, training of foraging techniques as well as accustoming the animals to a new diet which approximates their future diet in the wild.

At this moment we are building a big off-site pre-release enclosure in our own wilderness zone. This enclosure will resemble as much as possible the natural environment where the baboons will be finally released. Also the enclosure will be screened off completely and even contact with caretakers and researchers will be minimized. The release group will move into this new enclosure by the beginning of December after which the research can start.

Apart from the pre-release research you will contribute actively in fundraising for our release program.

Qualifications/Experience:

• You have at least a MSC degree in biology/ zoology or any related study • You have experience with behavioral research, preferably on primates • You will be able to set up and carry out your own methodology for the research project • You have strong analytical skills • You have good knowledge of the English language, spoken and written • You are highly motivated, open minded and flexible • Preferably you have experience with recognizing individuals in big groups of primates • You have the concentration, motivation and commitment to observe primates for extended periods, even when it is very warm or rains • You are mentally and physically fit to work long days, six days a week • You are emotionally mature and able to work independently

Salary/funding:

You will not receive any salary, but we do provide housing for free. Housing will be on site, within our volunteer accommodation. All other costs, flight, visa and food, will be at own expense. Visa will cost between 50-75 pounds, depending on the length of stay. Weekly food and drink expenses will be about 40 pounds, but will of course also depend on your lifestyle.

Term of Appointment:

As soon as possible

Contact Information:

Jasper Iepema

Kenyata drive

Lilongwe

Malawi

Telephone Number:

++26 (0)211951455

Website:

http://www.lilongwewildlife.org

E-mail Address:

animalcare@LLWC.org

Stage de formation bagueur

Pour plus de renseignements, cliquez ici

2 PhD POSITIONS IN BEHAVIOURAL ECOLOGY

1) PhD 'GENETIC BASIS OF COOPERATION': The aim of this PhD-project is to investigate the genetic basis of cooperative behaviour in highly social African cichlids. These fish have turned into a model species for studies of social evolution based on detailed information about their ecology and behaviour, excellent possibilities for behavioural and physiological experiments and recent sequencing of their full genome. We shall pursue a dual approach: (1) a quantitative genetics study employing a large-scale breeding experiment and (2) an ecological genomics approach using molecular biology tools. The project will involve intensive behavioural observations, quantitative genetics modeling and lab work for brain gene expression analyses. Eligible candidates will have a master’s degree (or Diplom) in Biology and research experience in animal behaviour, a genuine understanding of evolutionary theory and a strong commitment to basic science. Practical skills in molecular and/or quantitative genetics techniques and in empirical work with fish are beneficial, but not a precondition. The project will be mostly based in Bern, but will involve collaboration with two co-supervisors, Nadia Aubin-Horth (University Laval, Canada) and Mathias Kölliker (University of Basel, Switzerland). The position is part of the Doctoral Research Program ("ProDoc") funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation SNF on “Proximate and ultimate causes of cooperation” and will connect up to 30 PhD students working on animal cooperation by a research network. Supervisor of this project: Barbara Taborsky.

2) PhD 'ALTERNATIVE REPRODUCTIVE TACTICS': The aim of this PhD-project is to study the adaptive responses to mating competition of conspecifics pursuing alternative reproductive tactics (ARTs) that are either fixed for life or dependent on condition. Evolutionary theory predicts that negative frequency dependence will select for tactic frequencies generating equal lifetime fitnesses when ARTs reflect genetic morphs. In contrast, when ARTs are purely conditional they may yield different fitness pay-offs. African cichlids showing both types of ARTs will serve as experimental model for this study. It will involve competitive in vitro fertilization experiments, behavioural and environmental manipulations, and – depending on focus – field work on Lake Tanganyika and/or research on physiological control mechanisms. Eligible candidates will have a master’s degree (or Diplom) in Biology and research experience in animal behaviour, a genuine understanding of evolutionary theory and a strong commitment to basic science. Practical skills in behavioural observation, multivariate statistics, physiological techniques, empirical work with fish and scientific publication (e.g. of the master’s thesis) will be helpful, but are not a precondition. Supervisor of this project: Michael Taborsky.

Both positions are for three years and should preferably start in early 2012.

The successful candidates will join a bustling research environment consisting of ca. 15 PhD-students and advanced research staff, five technicians and a varying number of master’s students and guest scientists. Besides this Behavioural Ecology group, the Institute of Ecology and Evolution at the University of Bern comprises research groups in Aquatic Ecology (Ole Seehausen), Community Ecology (Wolfgang Nentwig), Conservation Biology (Raphael Arlettaz), Evolutionary Ecology (Heinz Richner) and Population Genetics (Laurent Excoffier). Salaries will follow the schemes of the national funding organization of Switzerland.

Closing date: Open until filled, but all application materials, including CV, a summary of research experience, copies of any published or in-press papers, and two letters of recommendation should be received by 22 December 2011 to ensure full consideration. Candidates should indicate in a cover letter for which position they apply and when they could take it up. Please send all application material to the secretary’s office, c/o Marlis Gerteis, Dept. Behavioural Ecology, University of Bern, Wohlenstrasse 50A, CH-3032 Bern, Switzerland; or as e-mail attachments to marlis.gerteis@iee.unibe.ch. Please consult our web-page for information on our research: http://behav.zoology.unibe.ch/ For inquiries please contact barbara.taborsky@iee.unibe.ch (position 1) or michael.taborsky@iee.unibe.ch (position 2).

OFFRE D’EMPLOI

NATUREPARIF - 84 rue de Grenelle PARIS 7e Agence Régionale pour la nature et la biodiversité

INTITULE DU POSTE : Chargé (e) de mission Naturaliste Faune

TYPE DE POSTE : CONTRAT A DUREE INDETERMINEE

PERIODE : à partir du 1er janvier 2012

REMUNERATION : à débattre selon expérience

DESCRIPTION DU POSTE

Au sein du Pôle Observatoire :

• Contribue à la mise en oeuvre de l’observatoire régional de la Biodiversité,

• Veille au bon déroulement du recensement des dispositifs de données concernant plus particulièrement la faune en dynamisant l’animation du réseau des acteurs intervenant dans ce domaine,

• Participe à la construction d’indicateurs de suivi de la biodiversité, et principalement ceux relatifs à la faune, en concertation avec les différents partenaires,

• Contribue à la veille scientifique du pôle observatoire notamment en ce qui concerne la faune,

• Participe à la mise en forme des connaissances avec les pôles Communication et Forum des acteurs,

• Assure le secrétariat de groupes de travail du SINP francilien,

• Mobilisation et animation des réseaux d’observateurs associatifs ou autres autour des projets conduits par Natureparif,

 Rédaction de synthèses et de rapports sur l’activité naturaliste francilienne concernant les sujets faune,

 Assure les missions de représentation de Natureparif en termes d’expertise naturaliste ou d’expertise en écologie auprès des instances (Région, Etat, CSRPN, …).

COMPETENCES

 Très bonnes connaissances naturalistes sur la faune d’Île-de-France,

 Connaissance des milieux : associatif naturaliste francilien, scientifique, des institutions et des entreprises,

 Approche pluridisciplinaire des missions,

 Expérience scientifique,

 Expérience de terrain,

 Expérience de suivi de projets,

 Expérience en animation,

 Expérience en gestion des espèces et des milieux naturels.

Paris, le 23 Novembre 2011

SAVOIR FAIRE

 Bonnes compétences rédactionnelles et de synthèse dans les domaines scientifiques, naturalistes et techniques.

 Compétences relationnelles et pédagogiques.

 Bonnes connaissances naturalistes, en écologie et sur les protocoles de suivi de la biodiversité.

 Bonnes connaissances en analyse de données naturalistes.

 Maîtrise des outils de gestion de base de données et des systèmes d’information géographique.

DIPLOMES

 Bac + 5 en Ecologie, Biologie des organismes et des populations, Ecologie végétale.

 Expérience professionnelle dans le domaine de la biodiversité, si possible en Ile-de-France.

Envoyer CV, lettre de motivation et prétentions salariales à :

Stéphanie Lux

Directrice de Natureparif

e.mail : recrutement@natureparif.fr

Volunteer Field Assistant: Barbaray Macaque group coordination in Morocco

Hiring Organization:

Barbary Macaque Project

Date Posted:

2011-11-21

Position Description:

Within the framework af a Master thesis, behavioral data on group coordination and decision shall be collected in wild Barbary macaques in the Middle Atlas, near the town of Azrou, Morocco. A group of 30 Barbary macaques will be followed 5-6 days a week in their homerange of cedar and oak woods and grassland. Work days will be up to 10 hours long.

At this website, you can get an impression of the study site: http://barbarymacaque.blogs.lincoln.ac.uk/

Accomodation is a flat in Azrou (with Internet, shower).

Qualifications/Experience:

Applicants should hold an acadamic degree or be a student in Behavioral Biology or related subjects, highly motivated and physically fit. Experience in field work with primates would be great.

Salary/funding:

No salary is provided.

Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):

No support for travel is provided. Costs for meals and lodging will be shared.

Term of Appointment:

3 months starting from mid-March

Application Deadline:

End of Decembre 2011

Comments:

Applications consisting of a motivation letter (1 page) and curriculum vitae (up to 2 pages) can be sent electronically to Anne Seltmann who can also provide additional information upon request.

Contact Information:

Anne Seltmann

Göttingen 37075

Germany

E-mail Address:

anneseltmann@web.de

Field assistants

2 FIELD ASSISTANTS for dispersal study of Black and Virginia Rails in Northern California from 16 April - 17 August 2012. Assistants will help with capturing and collection of tissues from Black and Virginia Rails for genetic and stable isotope analyses. Assistants must be able to set up mistnets, remove birds from mistnets, band birds, and take morphometric measurements on birds. Assistants should also be able to maintain accurate records of capture information using a database. The ideal candidates would be: (1) experienced in mistnetting, banding, and bleeding small birds; (2) well organized with a record of being able to conduct fieldwork as part of a team; (3) have a driver’s license and experience operating a 4WD vehicle; (4) be interested in population ecology and dispersal; (5) be able to walk up to several miles and be strong enough to carry moderate loads; and (6) have the ability to interface with the public and communicate with private landowners. Field work will take place in the San Francisco Bay and Sierra Foothills regions of Northern California. Work in the Sierra Foothills will be based out of the Sierra Foothills Research and Extension Center in Browns Valley, CA (URL: http://groups.ucanr.org/sierrafoothill/). Work in the San Francisco Bay area will be based out of UC Berkeley in Berkeley, CA. Salary is $2167 /month. Additional information on the study can be found at (URL:http://nature.berkeley.edu/~beis/rail/). Please submit resume and phone numbers/email of three referees by 5 January 2012 by email to LAURIE HALL, PhD student (EM: lahall@berkeley.edu) in the Department of Environmental Science, Policy & Management, University of California at Berkeley. Applications will be reviewed as they are received until all positions are filled. Candidates may also be interested in applying for two field assistant positions being offered for a related metapopulation study using playback to track occupancy of wetlands in the Sierra Foothills from 15 May – 17 August, 2012 (see advertisement above for more details). If you would like to be considered for both positions please indicate this in your application.

Reader/Professor in Primate Behaviour or Biology

Hiring Organization:

Liverpool John Moores University

Position Description:

The Research Centre in Evolutionary Anthropology and Palaeoecology within the School of Natural Sciences and Psychology seeks to appoint a Reader or Professor of Primate Behaviour or Biology with an excellent research record.

We are looking for an outstanding researcher with a strong, internationally recognised research portfolio, including high quality publications and external research funding, whose strengths will complement and integrate existing research areas. This appointment is part of a major strategic investment in the research and teaching of biological anthropology at LJMU.

For further information please see www.ljmu.ac.uk/rceap/ or contact Dr Laura Bishop, email l.c.bishop@ljmu.ac.uk or Dr Alan Gunn, email a.gunn@ljmu.ac.uk for an informal discussion about the post. Application is by application form. The application form, equal opportunities form and job description/person specification details can be downloaded from www.ljmu.ac.uk/vacancy/ alternatively complete the on-line request form below for a hardcopy to be sent in the post.

Qualifications/Experience:

See details on www.ljmu.ac.uk/vacancy/

Salary/funding:

£46,696 - £52,556/£57,616 - £93,545

Application Deadline:

06 January 2012

Contact Information:

Dr Nicola Koyama

School of Biological & Earth Sciences

Liverpool L3 3AF

United Kingdom

Telephone Number:

+44 151 231 2627

Fax Number:

+44 151 207 3224

Website:

http://www.ljmu.ac.uk/RCEAP/index.htm

E-mail Address:

n.f.koyama@ljmu.ac.uk

Implementation of the 3Rs in Behavioural and Physiological Research

Joint meeting with Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour (ASAB), the Society for Experimental Biology (SEB) and the National Centre for the 3Rs (NC3Rs)

4-5th July 2012

The Wellcome Trust, London, UK

Implementation of the 3Rs in Behavioural and Physiological Research

Registration free

Organisers: Dr Lynne Sneddon and Dr Kate Buchanan

Call for speakers: this joint meeting with ASAB, SEB and NC3Rs will emphasise the application of the 3Rs (reduction, replacement and refinement) in behavioural and physiological experimentation. Speakers should focus on how the implementation of one or more of the 3Rs did not alter the quality of the science or improved the outcomes. Please e-mail Lynne Sneddon (lsneddon@liverpool.ac.uk) with a title and short description (100-150 words) by 16th December 2011. Poster presentations are also welcome.

Topics include:

Use of invertebrates or embryos to replace adult vertebrates Improved handling techniques Behaviour and welfare Non-invasive sampling Behavioural phenotyping Neuroscience Development Toxicology Enrichment

Ethology Investigates: Cooperation; An online conference

The editors of ethology and Redouan Bshary will host the first ethology Investigates online conference on cooperation (http://www.ethologyinvestigates.com/).

While Darwin’s theory of evolution through natural selection emphasizes the importance of competition between individuals, survival often depends on complex systems of organisms working together to increase fitness, fight disease, watch for enemies or hunt for food – all forms of cooperation. The ethology Investigates online conference on cooperation seeks to elucidate the occurrence of cooperative behavior within and between species, applying the holistic framework of Tinbergen’s four “why” questions.

Join us from November 29th to December 2nd, 2011 for talks and presented papers on cutting-edge research into cooperation. All presenters will be available online to take your questions and respond to your comments.

Click here to register: http://www.ethologyinvestigates.com/?page_id=145&action=register

PhD Positions at the IMPRS for Organismal Biology

Hiring Organization:

Max Planck Institute for Ornithology & University of Konstanz

Position Description:

The International Max Planck Research School (IMPRS) for Organismal Biology offers several PhD student positions. The IMPRS is based in southern Germany and is jointly organized by the Max Planck Institute for Ornithology in Seewiesen and Radolfzell and the University of Konstanz. Outstanding students of all nationalities with a deep commitment to basic research in Organismal Biology are invited to apply.

More than 25 internationally recognized research groups actively participate in the PhD program and offer challenging, cutting-edge PhD projects in the fields of Behavioral Biology, Ecology, Evolution, Physiology, and Neurobiology. For a list of all PhD projects visit www.orn.mpg.de/IMPRS.

The program offers dedicated teaching programs, high quality research experience, and outstanding research facilities in an inspiring research and living environment. All courses are taught in English. Each PhD candidate receives individual supervision and mentoring and is guided in her/his research work by a PhD advisory committee.

Interviews with the applicants are scheduled for mid-March. Candidates accepted into the program may start latest October 2012.

The Max Planck Society and the University of Konstanz are equal opportunity employers. Applications from women and historically under-represented groups are particularly welcome.

Queries should be mailed to the program office: IMPRS@uni-konstanz.de

For the application process visit www.orn.mpg.de/IMPRS

Qualifications/Experience:

Applicants should hold an MSc or equivalent degree in biology or a related discipline at the point of enrollment.

Salary/funding:

All students accepted to the program will be supported by stipends or contracts

Application Deadline:

Deadline for the application is January 15, 2012

Contact Information:

Daniel Piechowski

Universitätsstraße 10

Konstanz, BW 78457

Germany

Telephone Number:

+49-7532-884916

Fax Number:

+49-7531-884917

Website:

http://www.orn.mpg.de/IMPRS

E-mail Address:

IMPRS@uni-konstanz.de

Offre de Stage Eté 2012 - Dispersion natale chez le lézard vivipare

Description

La dispersion des individus du site natal au site de reproduction ou entre sites de reproduction est un des processus fondamentaux qui participent à la dynamique des populations. Dans un contexte de fragmentation croissante des habitats, la dispersion peut avoir un impact crucial pour la persistance des petites populations, permettant de recoloniser des habitats où les sous-populations sont éteintes. Or tous les individus ne dispersent pas, et tous ne dispersent pas de la même manière, ce qui peut affecter la dynamique des métapopulations. La décision de disperser dépend du phénotype individuel, en interaction avec les conditions environnementales.

Notre équipe travaille sur le comportement de dispersion natale des lézards vivipares (Zootoca vivipara). Nous travaillons dans le métatron, un dispositif unique d'enclos semi-naturels reliés par des corridors simulant le fonctionnement de métapopulations. Nous étudions les choix de dispersion individuels en fonction du phénotype et des conditions environnementales et sociales subies par les individus. Les lézards sont libérés au printemps dans le métatron dans différents enclos, avec différentes conditions sociales (densité de population, compétition entre apparentés) et environnementales (température). Nous suivons la dispersion des juvéniles chaque jour durant l'été.

Mission du (de la) stagiaire :

Le (la) stagiaire participera selon la période à la capture des lézards au métatron, ainsi qu'à l'élevage en laboratoire. Durant la période d'élevage, il (elle) participera aux mesures morphologiques et aux expériences comportementales effectuées sur les juvéniles. Enfin, en juillet-août, il (elle) pourra participer au suivi de la dispersion des juvéniles au métatron.Le stagiaire pourra acquérir des connaissances pratiques en analyse comportementale, ainsi que de terrain.

Localisation : Station d'Ecologie Expérimentale du CNRS à Moulis, (Ariège, Midi-Pyrénées).

Période de stage : un à deux mois entre mai et août 2012.

Stage non rémunéré, mais possibilité de loger sur place.

Profil du (de la) candidat(e) :

Bac+3 ou Bac+4 : Etudiant(e) en biologie/écologie

Intérêt pour l'écologie comportementale

Goût du travail de terrain

Candidature

envoyez un CV et une lettre de motivation par mail à Elvire Bestion

elvire.bestion@ecoex-moulis.cnrs.fr

Volunteer as a Primate Carer at the MONA Foundation

Hiring Organization:

FUNDACIÓ MONA

Date Posted:

2011-11-11

Position Description:

POSITION DESCRIPTION:

The MONA Foundation is a non-profit organisation that made it its goal to rescue, rehabilitate and socially integrate primates that have been illegally captured and used for commercial and personal purposes and that are living in inadequate conditions. Furthermore we work to educate and inform about the mistreatment happening to these animals, trying to invoke the necessary respect for them within human society.

Rescuing primates, their rehabilitation and resocialisation is hard and time consuming work and it can only be accomplished by the cooperation of many. Therefore, as most NGOs working with animals or for animal protection, the help of volunteers is greatly needed.

However we also understand that it is an ideal opportunity for young people who plan to work in this field to obtain experience, improve their skills or simply experience work as a primate carer.

TASKS:

Located at “Riudellots de la Selva” (15km from Girona), Spain, The MONA Foundation seeks volunteers for 3 to 6 month periods to assist with day-to-day operations at the sanctuary. You will be working as part of the primate care team under the direction of the head keeper (who speaks Spanish and English), taking care of tasks like the preparation and distribution of the chimpanzee diet, cage/enclosure cleaning and maintenance, maintaining the centre facilities and equipment, preparation and application of enrichment projects, and possibly assisting in management and educational activities. We generally take into account your individual skills and talents to match them with the daily tasks, although volunteers help wherever most needed.

Actual physical contact with the chimpanzees is strictly forbidden as these animals can be very dangerous and we encourage them to search social contact from each other instead of the primate care staff. However, various tasks, especially feeding, will bring you in close proximity with the chimpanzees although it is important to us that volunteers respect the rules as well as the chimpanzees’ need to interact with each other instead of humans.

Qualifications/Experience:

QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE:

Although MONA does accept volunteers without any previous experience in the field of primates (for a minimum period of 6 months – onsite training is given), volunteers with primate or animal care qualifications and/or experience at other sanctuaries (for a minimum period of 3 months) are preferred.

- Minimum age of 20 years old

- Fluent in Spanish or English: if fluent in English, basic Spanish strongly preferred (and vice versa)

- Good general health: mentally and physically (many of the tasks can be physically challenging)

- Vaccinations/health requirements: (1) negative Tuberculosis result, (2) Hepatitis A and B Vaccinations, (3) Tetanus Vaccination (suggested)

- Being able to work efficiently as part of a team as well as demonstrating your own initiative

PREFERRED:

- Previous experience or a former education related to animals/primates (care) such as Biology, Veterinary, Psychology, Animal keeper, etc.

- Work experience as part of a group or project team

Salary/funding:

MONA does not pay a salary. However, MONA is willing to cooperate with those coming through a program or a funding institution.

Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):

Volunteers must pay for all expenses including flights, visas (applicants from outside of the European Union must be able to provide a visa for the duration of the volunteer period), travel, meals and lodging. Hot drinks are provided during the working day.

Term of Appointment:

From 3 to 6 months, depending on the previous experience and qualifications.

Application Deadline:

OPEN

Contact Information:

Alba Gómara

Veinat de l'estació, Carretera de Cassà s/n - Riudellots de la Selva

Girona, Girona 17457

Spain

Telephone Number:

0034 972477618

Website:

http://www.fundacionmona.org

E-mail Address:

a.gomara@fundacionmona.org

PhD Assistantship in Carnivore/Landscape Ecology

The Department of Biology at Baylor University seeks an outstanding PhD student to study the effects of climate change, roads, and land use on habitat quality and population connectivity for several carnivore species in the Northern Rocky Mountains region of the United States.

The project is a component of a long-term, multi-state, multi-agency study of carnivore habitat relationships, movement ecology, gene flow, and landscape genetics. Study species include the grizzly bear, black bear, wolf, wolverine, fisher, lynx, and American marten. Field methods will include large grids of non-invasive hair snares to collect genetic material from multiple species. Analytical methods will likely include occupancy modeling, multi-scale habitat modeling using logistic regression, individual-based landscape genetic analysis using distance-based regression and causal modeling, and computer simulation of gene flow. The position provides up to five years of teaching assistantship funding at $15-21K per academic year (depending on qualifications) plus up to five years of summer salary at approximately $3-4K per summer. Tuition for 20 semester hours per year will be waived, and health insurance at a discounted price will be available. Housing at the field site will be provided during the summer field season.

Extensive experience with statistical analyses of ecological data, and proficiency in ArcGIS and the R statistical language, are required. The student must have a M.S. degree in a relevant field, and preference will be given to students who have published quantitative ecological research. 

Applicants with experience working in remote landscapes, and who have backcountry skills such as navigation with map and compass, use of a GPS, wilderness survival, and wilderness first aid, are preferred. To be competitive, applicants must have undergraduate and graduate GPAs 3.4 and a general GRE score 1200. The student must have or acquire a valid US drivers license.

Applicants should create a single pdf that includes a letter of interest that specifically addresses the position‚s qualifications and preferences, a resume, unofficial undergraduate and graduate transcripts, unofficial general GRE scores, and a list of three references and their contact information (institution, email address, phone number). This pdf should be sent to both Dr. Kevin Gutzwiller (kevin_gutzwiller@baylor.edu; http://bearspace.baylor.edu/Kevin_Gutzwiller /www/) and Dr. Sam Cushman (scushman@fs.fed.us; http://www.fs.fed.us/rm/wildlife/genetics/cushman.htm) via an email with CarnivoreˆLandscape Ecology in the subject line. Screening of applicants will begin immediately and continue through the deadline of 8 December 2011. Applications that do not include all of the requested information will not be reviewed. By mid January, Dr. Gutzwiller will invite the most qualified applicant to apply formally to the Ph.D. Program in Biology for the teaching assistantship. Admission and an offer of an assistantship are decided by the Baylor Graduate School and the Baylor Biology Graduate Committee. Information about the Department of Biology and Baylor University can be found at http://www.baylor.edu/biology/ and associated links.

VOLUNTEER FIELD ASSISTANT POSITION, Shorebirds, The Netherlands

Hiring Organization:

University of Groningen

Date Posted:

2011-11-09

Position Description:

Volunteers are needed from 10 March to 15 May 2012 for an ongoing capture-recapture program on the Ruffs, Philomachus pugnax. The project is under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Theunis Piersma, head of the Animal Ecology Group of the University of Groningen. Our current research aims to better understand demographic and ecological processes playing a role in the ongoing decline of the population Ruffs using the Netherlands during migratory stopover. The fieldwork consists in the monitoring of colour-banded birds in Southwest Friesland, a characteristic Dutch meadow area in the north of The Netherlands. We collect data on the timing of migration, habitat use, phenotype characteristics, feeding and reproductive behaviour of the birds; but you will also assist with the banding of the birds, blood sampling, and data entry. Volunteers and students involved will live together in our field station in a small village along the shore of Lake IJsselmeer.

Qualifications/Experience:

We are seeking highly motivated people, happy to spend long days in the field, social and able to work in team. Interested applicants should be however, independent, well organized and able to maintain a professional attitude. A driver license is required.

Command of Dutch or Frisian is not necessary ;-) Applicants willing to improve their spoken English are encouraged to apply (this is an excellent opportunity to improve!). But note that a good understanding is required.

Salary/funding:

None

Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):

We provide housing and all field equipment. Volunteers must pay own airfare and food expenses (3-4 Euros per day). A refund of flight cost might be possible (depending on pending grant applications).

Term of Appointment:

From 10 March 2011 to 15 May 2012. Commitment for the all period is required.

Application Deadline:

We will begin reviewing applications from 1th January 2012 and continue until position is filled.

Comments:

Please send a resume/CV (keep it to relevant details), a cover letter (interests, career goals, relevant experience for the position and availability) and at least one reference .

Contact Information:

Lucie SCHMALTZ [l.schmaltz@rug.nl] – PhD student, Animal Ecology Group, University of Groningen.

Centre for Life Sciences, Nijenborgh 7 - 9747 AG GRONINGEN

E-mail Address:

L.Schmaltz@rug.nl

Website:

http://www.rug.nl/biologie/onderzoek/onderzoekgroepen/dieroecologie/onderzoek/researchstudies/

Research Assistant

Hiring Organization:

Max-Planck-Institute for Evol. Anthropology

Date Posted:

2011-11-09

Position Description:

Two research assistant for an ongoing long-term project in LuiKotale, Salonga NP, Democratic Republic of Congo. This project started in July 2011 and bonobos are still in an early stage of habituation. Daily work includes locating bonobos and following individuals during the day for as long as possible. It also includes taking notes on the foods consumed, scoring locations of nest groups, travel routes etc. and analyzing recordings from camera traps. Candidates will work together with Congolese field assistants and will be trained by the current habituation team before taking over the project. Information about the field site and research activities at LuiKotale is available at www.eva.mpg.de/primat

Qualifications/Experience:

Essential requirements are: (1) field experience, (2) language skills (English and French), (3) above average physical fitness, (4) above average resistance to social/psychological stress, (5) practical and technical skills required to orient and move across dense tropical lowland forest without prominent land marks, (6) the ability to achieve tasks by improvisation, using the limited sources that are available, (7) the capacity to live and work with an international team of students, volunteers and local staff. Candidates should be independent and have social skills, a strong motivation to take on responsibility, and tolerance to costumes and practices of traditional societies. LuiKotale hosts an international research team and communication among team members is mainly in English. Communication with local field assistants is in French and Lingala and candidates with such language skills will be preferred.

Salary/funding:

300 Euro/month

Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):

- food (mix of mainly local food and some western food items

- lodging (in tents) at the field site

- airfare for one domestic flight from Kinshasa to the field site and back

- contribution of up to 800 Euro to an international return flight (reimbursement ONLY AFTER SUCCESSFUL COMPLETITION OF A 9 MONTS TERM OF APPOINTMENT)

- expenses for visa (reimbursement ONLY AFTER SUCCESSFUL COMPLETITION OF A 9 MONTS TERM OF APPOINTMENT)

- please note that expenses during the stay in Kinshasa on the way in/out of Congo CAN NOT be covered by the project

Term of Appointment:

9 months starting in February 2012

Application Deadline:

25th of December 2011

Comments:

Applicants are requested to send a CV, a letter of interest that shows how the applicant meets the qualifications for the position as outlined above, and gives the names of at least two people that would serve as a reference.

Contact Information:

Dr. Gottfried Hohmann

Deutscher Platz 6

Leipzig 04103

Germany

Telephone Number:

++49 341 3550 208

Website:

http://www.eva.mpg.de

E-mail Address:

hohmann@eva.mpg.de

Field Assistant/Research volunteer

Hiring Organization:

Inkawu Vervet Project, South Africa

Date Posted:

2011-11-08

Position Description:

Within the framework of a large collaborative project between the universities of Neuchatel (Dr. R. Bshary), Zurich (Drs. C.P. van Schaik & M. Krützen) and St. Andrews (Dr. A. Whiten) on the evolution of social behaviour in vervet monkeys (Cercopithecus aethiops), the Inkawu Vervet Project is currently looking for highly motivated field assistants. Applicants that want to use this opportunity as a jumping board to help them pursue a post-grad degree (MSc. or PhD) in Behavioural Ecology, Anthropology, Evolutionary Psychology or any related field are especially encouraged to apply.

Assistants will help 2 PhD-students and 1 on-site post-doc with the habituation of and data collection on a targeted 10 groups of wild vervet monkeys at our field-site in Kwazulu-Natal, South-Africa. Behavioural data (both observational and experimental) and invasive genetic samples (ear-clips) are currently collected on 6 groups (each equipped with GPS/VHF loggers), with an additional 3 groups already identified for habituation in the near future.

Assistants are expected to spend a minimum of 6 months in the field in order to qualify for full financial compensation of travel expenses to South Africa, on-site lodging and meals. Assistants available for shorter periods are also welcome to apply, but will not have these expenses fully reimbursed. All applicants are responsible for their own field equipment (hiking shoes, bush clothes, rain gear, etc.), as well as vaccinations and travel insurance. Research equipment (handheld computers, binoculars and VHF-receivers for telemetry) are provided.

Qualifications/Experience:

Successful applicants are proficient in English, have excellent social skills, and are able to work within a large, interdisciplinary research team under field conditions.

Salary/funding:

No salary is provided.

Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):

Financial compensation of travel expenses, on-site lodging and meals is available (see above).

Term of Appointment:

Positions are open now and applications will be considered on a

Application Deadline:

31-01-2011

Comments:

Applications consisting of a motivation letter (1 page) and curriculum vitae (up to 2 pages) can be sent electronically to Erik Willems who can also provide additional information upon request.

Contact Information:

Erik Willems

Switzerland

E-mail Address:

e.willems@aim.uzh.ch

Postdoctoral opportunities

Neuroscience and Ethology
Location: Linkoping University, Sweden
Prof. Per Jensen
perje@ifm.liu.se

View details

Stage niveau M1 – 4 mois – suivi comportemental des abeilles par la technique des puces RFID

Proposition de stage M1 – printemps / été 2012

Suivi comportemental des abeilles domestiques (Apis mellifera L.) par la technologie des puces RFID

Laboratoires d’accueil :

Laboratoire de rattachement : Laboratoire Pollinisation et Ecologie des Abeilles (LPEA) de l’UMR Abeilles & Environnement – INRA d’Avignon (84)

Travail de terrain (mai-juin): Région Poitou-Charentes, en partenariat avec l’UE Entomologie – INRA du Magneraud (17)

Activité des laboratoires d’accueil :

Les recherches de l’unité Abeilles & Environnement de l’INRA d’Avignon sont centrées autour de la problématique du déclin des abeilles, sauvages et domestiques, et de ses conséquences sur le service de pollinisation. Ces recherches sont menées en étroite collaboration avec l’ACTA (Association de Coordination Technique Agricole) et avec l’UE Entomologie de l’INRA du Magneraud qui est spécialisée dans les techniques d’élevage d’abeilles et de suivis expérimentaux.

Introduction du stage :

Ce stage sera réalisé dans le cadre d’un programme de recherche sur l’utilisation de nouvelles technologies d’enregistrement automatisé de l’activité des abeilles. Le dispositif d’enregistrement comprend une puce RFID fixée sur le thorax des abeilles, et un capteur placé à l’entrée de la ruche. L’enregistrement des entrées et sorties des abeilles à la ruche permettra d’étudier les budgets temporels d’activité des abeilles et leur capacité de retour à la ruche lors de tests de délocalisation. Ces paramètres comportementaux seront mis en relation avec la quantité de ressources florales dans le milieu et des expositions expérimentales à un insecticide systémique.

Disciplines abordées : Agro-écologie, Ecologie comportementale, Entomologie, Toxicologie

Période de stage : 4 mois à partir d’Avril 2012.

Allocation de stage : Forfait administration, soit 417,09 €/mois. Lors de la période de terrain en Poitou-Charentes, le stagiaire sera logé à ses frais (possibilité d’hébergement à loyer modéré au centre INRA: < 100 €/mois).

Contraintes : Horaires et calendrier flexibles pour le terrain en Poitou-Charentes. Pas d’allergie aux piqures d’abeilles.

Candidature et sélection : Les personnes intéressées son priées de prendre contact avec le responsable dès maintenant (cf. coordonnées ci-dessous) et d’envoyer par courrier électronique une lettre de motivation et un CV :

Mickaël Henry

Tel : 04.32.72.26.25

Mickael.henry@avignon.inra.fr

Suivi de la population nicheuse de Milan royal sur le premier plateau du Doubs – 4 mois – Besançon (25)

Stagiaire F/H Suivi de la population nicheuse de Milan royal sur le premier plateau du

Doubs – 4 mois – Besançon (25).

Durée et type de contrat : Stage

Niveau d’études : BTS GPN ou BAC+3 pro

Thématique : Espaces naturels, faune, flore

Région : Franche-Comté

Ville : Besançon (25)

Type d’offre : Stage indemnisé

Date de début du contrat : 15/02/2012

Date limite de réponse : 31/12/2011

Date de publication : 10/11/2011

Durée de la mission (mois) : 4 mois

DESCRIPTION DE L’OFFRE

Dans le cadre du plan d’actions national Milan royal piloté par la LPO Champagne-Ardenne, la LPO Franche-Comté, association loi 1901, œuvrant pour la protection de la faune et plus particulièrement de l’avifaune et de ses habitats associés, recherche un(e) stagiaire pour suivre et quantifier la population nicheuse de Milan royal du premier plateau du Doubs (secteur Osse, Nancray, Deluz, etc.). Cette opération servira de base au programme de baguage/marquage des jeunes milans.

MISSION

Aura pour responsabilité le suivi de la population nicheuse du secteur ci-dessus défini qui comprend :

- la coordination, avec le responsable du stage, du réseau de bénévoles susceptibles de contribuer à l’opération

- la recherche et le dénombrement des couples nicheurs

- l’identification des aires et le dénombrement des jeunes au nid avec un suivi jusqu’au jour du baguage/marquage

- l’identification des propriétaires des parcelles abritant les aires repérées

- secondairement, la recherche et la transmission de données d’oiseaux marqués les années précédentes

PROFIL CANDIDAT/E

- connaissances en ornithologie (en particulier bonnes connaissances des oiseaux sur le terrain) et en écologie des populations et de la conservation

- connaissances des outils de gestion en environnement

- bon relationnel et rigueur

- autonomie et capacité d’initiatives

- bonne capacité rédactionnelle et de synthèse

- permis B indispensable avec véhicule

Niveau d’études : BTS GPN, BAC+3

Madagascar Field Research Assistantship

Hiring Organization:

SIMPONA

Date Posted:

2011-11-02

Position Description:

Silky Sifaka (Propithecus candidus) Scent Marking and Vocalizations in Marojejy National Park

1 research assistantship is available to collect data on wild silky sifakas (Propithecus candidus) in northeastern Madagascar in Marojejy National Park from July 1 2012 to December 20 2012.

Main duties include behavioral data collection using handheld GPS units to determine scent marking location and audio recording of vocalizations using digital solid-state audio recorders.

The work will take place at an established field site (Camp 2 of Marojejy NP) with an experienced team that has been working at the site for about 10 years. Although the habitat can be extremely steep (mid-altitude montane rain forest) and it often rains heavily, there are small bungalows at the site as well as a covered dining area.

You will not be alone out there since there will be a second field assistant (from Dartmouth university) and probably a Malagasy university student as well. There will also of course be several experienced Marojejy National Park guides. Probably several weeks at a time will be spent in the field followed by a week of data entry in a nearby coastal city (Sambava).

There are few dangerous animals in forest (except a few scorpions). The biggest risks are those which are typical of any field site: possibility of physical injury (knee pain is not unusual because it is very steep) and basic health issues (occasional stomach upset is not unusual for first time visitors).

The diet is very basic and mainly consists of rice, beans, and vegetables. It can be difficult to work with the same small group of people for many months. Flexibility is required to get along with others and cope with daily life in an impoverished developing country.

Considerable information is available online about this field site and the critically endangered silky sifaka, which is one of the rarest mammals in the world.

Consult these links for information:

Marojejy National Park: www.marojejy.com

Silky Sifakas: www.simpona.org

To apply, please send a CV to Erik Patel: patel.erik@gmail.com

Qualifications/Experience:

No prior field experience is required. Above average physical condition and a basic familiarity with computers is necessary.

People that just aren’t comfortable with machines may have difficulty with the audio recording and GPS gear.

Preference will be given to applicants with an interest in pursuing graduate studies in animal behavior, biology, anthropology, psychology, natural resources, and related disciplines.

Preference will also be given to applicants with some prior experience with primates (particularly lemurs), and those who have prior experience in developing countries.

Some French is a plus since Madagascar is a Francophone country.

Salary/funding:

The research assistant must pay for their own round-trip international plane ticket (approx. $2300usd) and are also expected to assume responsibility for their own field clothes/boots as well as pre-trip vaccinations (and malaria pills).

Past volunteers have also brought their own snacks and other personal items which can lead to substantial luggage overweight costs which the research assistant is also responsible for.

Term of Appointment:

July 1 2012 to December 20 2012

Application Deadline:

December 30 2011

Contact Information:

Erik R Patel

Madagascar

Website:

http://www.simpona.org

E-mail Address:

patel.erik@gmail.com

Field Assistant: Chimpanzee Research at Zambian Sanctuary

Hiring Organization:

Comparative Cognitive Anthropology Group, Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics

Date Posted:

2011-11-06

Position Description:

Seeking a research assistant to take part in a post-doctoral project investigating cooperative behavior in chimpanzees at Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage Trust in Zambia. The project combines observational and experimental work; the research assistant would be primarily involved in the experimental portion. The assistant would work closely with the postdoc to help with all aspects of the research including experimental setup, video recording, data scoring and data entry. The assistant should be prepared to leave camp around dawn, and remain near the chimpanzees (approximately 30 min walk from camp) until dusk. Some evenings there will be additional work entering and organizing data at camp.

The area of the sanctuary in which the project is being conducted is home to approximately 100 chimpanzees living in four social groups in some of the largest enclosures in the world. The research will focus on two of these social groups. There is a strict no-contact policy at the sanctuary; the assistant should not expect hands-on contact with chimpanzees at any time during this project.

The accommodations at the sanctuary are comfortable: clean running water, hot showers, pit toilets, electricity, and internet (usually). This field visit will take place during the rainy season, when average temperatures are 20–25 C. The sanctuary is located amidst local villages and about 60 km from the nearest city, Chingola. The assistant would be expected to work 6 days per week, and transport to/from Chingola would be available on the day off if desired.

Qualifications/Experience:

The applicant should be reliable, self-motivated and organized. Being able to respond flexibly to changes in plans, to get along in close quarters with a diverse group of individuals, to be comfortable in a remote environment, and to maintain a positive attitude are essential. Applicants should be physically and mentally fit.

Previous experience in Africa is preferred, and applicants should be fluent in English.

Coursework in animal behavior, behavioral ecology, zoology, primatology or other relevant fields, as well as experience in scientific research is desirable.

Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):

Airfare and transportation to/from the sanctuary will be provided, as well as meals, lodging, and visa fees.

The assistant will assume responsibility for their personal field equipment (boots, rain gear, etc.), pre-trip vaccinations and anti-malarial medication, and travel insurance.

Term of Appointment:

10-12 weeks starting in February 2012

Application Deadline:

December 5, 2011

Comments:

To apply, please email the following:



(1) A cover letter explaining why you are interested in this position and why you are suitable, including your previous experience, qualifications, and future career goals

(2) Your CV

(3) Contact details of at least three references. Your references should be able to provide insight into your suitability for this type of field environment as well as for your ability to assist in scientific research.

Contact Information:

Katherine Cronin

Netherlands

Website:

http://www.mpi.nl

E-mail Address:

katherine.cronin@mpi.nl

Post Doctoral Fellowship in Primate Research

Post Doctoral Fellowship in Primate Research

Hiring Organization:

Zoo Atlanta

Position Description:

This position will support and expand Zoo Atlanta’s primate research program, which focuses on social behavior and development, cognition, and improving captive management and well-being. The primary research focus will be on conducting experimental studies aimed at expanding our understanding of primate cognition with a specific focus on gorillas and orangutans. The Zoo houses the largest zoo collection of gorillas (N=22) and orangutans

(N=13) in the country and has collaborative relationships with other zoos and local universities that may be used to further increase sample size.

The fellow will report to the Director of Primate Reserach and be expected to design novel studies as well as use proven methodologies from other species to gather data that will enable a more comparative analysis of cognition and expand our understanding of the evolution, mechanisms and expression of primate cognitive abilities.

The position offers the potential to collaborate with outside scientists and zoos and to obtain an academic affiliation with a local university.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

-Design, conduct and analyze studies on primate behavior and cognition -Mentor undergraduate researchers and interns -Assist with statistical analysis and write up for existing datasets -Write grants to support research program -Work in close association with other research and primate staff -Participate in training data collectors -Communicate research results in staff seminars, scientific journals, conference presentations, and popular publications -Support the Zoo’s mission of education through teaching in formal and informal settings

Qualifications/Experience:

Required skills:

* Ph.D. or Ph.D. candidate (defending by June 2012) in animal behavior or related field

* Excellent written and oral communication skills for both formal and informal audiences

* Experience conducting research, preferably in a captive or sanctuary setting and with apes

* Strong experimental design and analytical skills, especially dealing with small sample sizes

* Experience using standard statistical software packages (e.g., SPSS)

* Ability to work with others in a fast paced, team oriented atmosphere

Preferred skills:

* Experience using the Observer program by Noldus (design, data collection, and analysis) and/or other behavioral monitoring programs

* Computer programming experience

* Previous teaching experience

Salary/funding:

Salary and benefits included for two years.

Zoo Atlanta is an EOE and provides a Smoke-free and Drug-free Work Environment

Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals,

lodging):

NA

Term of Appointment:

This is a two year position to start in early 2012 (February/March)

Application Deadline:

December 1, 2011

Comments:

Interested candidates please apply online at http://www.zooatlanta.org/home/careers. Please include cover letter describing previous experience and future career and research goals, CV and two letters of recommendation.

Contact Information:

Tara Stoinski

800 Cherokee Avenue

Atlanta, GA 30315

USA

Telephone Number:

404 624 5826

Fax Number:

404 624 5841

Website:

http://www.zooatlanta.org

E-mail Address:

tstoinski@zooatlanta.org