Hiring Organization:
University of Chicago
Date Posted:
2013-07-15
Position Description:
Two volunteer field assistants are wanted to help with data collection on rhesus macaque behavior and physiology in Puerto Rico. The study combines behavioral observations of individually recognizable animals with collection of fecal and urine samples for hormonal and parasitological analyses. Volunteers will receive training on-site and will work as part of a larger team of researchers and volunteers from the University of Chicago. Field-work is carried out on Cayo Santiago, a small island off the coast of Puerto Rico, where over 1,000 provisioned rhesus macaques live.
Living arrangements:
Lodging is available in the nearby town of Punta Santiago (where most researchers are based). Rental accommodation is furnished. Two people can usually share a flat for ca. $250-300 per person per month. Shops and supermarkets within walking & driving distance.
More details about our lab and current research:
Behavioral Biology Laboratory at the Institute for Mind and Biology of the University of Chicago:
http://primate.uchicago.edu/
Alexander Georgiev's website:
https://sites.google.com/site/alexandervgeorgiev/rhesus-macaques
Caribbean Primate Research Center:
http://cprc.rcm.upr.edu/units/santiago
Qualifications/Experience:
Strong interest in animal behavior and/or biological anthropology essential. Must be able to work in field conditions on a daily basis (5 days per week) in the hot Caribbean sun. Physically fit, motivated, and willing to learn new skills. Strong communication and inter-personal skills. Previous experience in field biology research would be useful: in particular any work involving systematic behavioral data collection. Formal training in zoology, biological anthropology and/or ecology would also be advantageous. Additionally, in order to receive permission to work on Cayo Santiago you have to provide a number of medical test results (e.g. TB, measles, intestinal parasites, rabies) to the Caribbean Primate Research Center (the organization that runs this field site). Medical tests need to be done at least a month in advance of your arrival so you would have to take care of that ASAP after your application has been accepted.
Salary/funding:
None available.
Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):
Volunteers will be responsible for all costs associated with this placement, including air travel and local transport. International volunteers are responsible for their own visa arrangements and costs.
Term of Appointment:
20 Oct 2013 - 29 Feb 2014 (end date somewhat flexible)
Application Deadline:
20 Aug 2013
Comments:
To apply, please, e-mail Dr. Alexander Georgiev (georgiev@uchicago.edu). In your e-mail briefly explain your interest in this position and attach your CV with the names and contact details of three referees. You can also direct any questions about this ad to the email above.
Contact Information:
c/o 18 Calle Marina
Punta Santiago, PR 00741
USA
Website:
E-mail Address: