HUMAN-PRIMATE
CONFLICT, SOUTH AFRICA
As part of Durham University’s
Primate and Predator Project, located in a remote area of Limpopo Province,
South Africa, we are looking for a keen and motivated Volunteer Research
Assistant for the human-primate conflict stream of the project. This PhD
project is investigating the scale and nature of crop raiding on commercial
farms in the area, as well as assessing local perceptions and tolerance towards
primate ‘pests’. The data will enable strategies for mitigating risk to be
evaluated.
Research Assistants will be expected
to carry out behavioural observations of primates on farms, crop damage
assessment surveys, group counts, camera trapping and data entry. As the PhD
involves a social anthropological aspect, assistants will be expected to
interact with local farmers, communicate positively, and have knowledge of the
project so that it can be conveyed and promoted.
The positions are suitable for a
biological sciences (or similar) graduate or post-graduate, with prior field
experience with primates, or with all or any of the techniques mentioned above.
Applicants should be enthusiastic, hardworking and a flexible team member, with
the ability to work independently to a high standard and be competent working
unsupervised. Applicants should also be physically fit, ready for long
challenging days spent on farms with little or no shade. Possession of a valid
driver’s licence (manual) is essential; assistants will be expected to drive
themselves to the focal farms.
Ideally we would like Research
Assistants to start immediately and request a minimum stay of 3 months providing
a one month probation period is passed, after which a longer stay can be
discussed. Please indicate your availability on your application.
Unfortunately funding is not
available for Research Assistants, so applicants should have sufficient funds
to cover airfares, accommodation, food, medical insurance and any equipment
they require. The project is based at Mogalakwena Research Centre (www.researchlimpopo.com). Accommodation is in the
form of dorm rooms (sleeping 4-6) with a shared ablutions block (hot showers)
and a communal kitchen and braai area. Rent is ZAR 4,000 (GB£264/US$400 at
current exchange) per month, which includes use of the
Research Centre facilities and internet access.
To apply for the position or for
further details please contact Leah Findlay at l.j.findlay@durham.ac.uk. Please include a brief cover letter
and CV. Applications will be accepted until positions are filled.