volunteer field assistants

Hiring organization:
University of Wisconsin–Madison, USA

Date Posted:
2020-01-20

Position description

I am looking for two volunteer field assistants to join our research team studying wild chacma baboons on the Swebeswebe Primate Project in the Limpopo Province, South Africa. The positions are likely to suit persons interested in acquiring data collection skills prior to undertaking graduate research. Field assistants will learn to identify a wild group of chacma baboons, will collect a range of behavioral and ecological data, and will contribute to the general running of the research camp. The study site – also home to vervet monkeys and bush babies, to name only the primates – is located on the Swebeswebe Wildlife Estate, approximately 50km from the town of Lephalale. Applicants should be aware that the study site is home to dangerous animals, including leopards and snakes, and that field work is conducted on foot. For more details of the research project and field site, visit: www.richmcfarland.com.

Qualifications/Experience
Previous field experience is desirable, but not essential. Applicants should be physically fit and resilient, as days in the field are long and physically/mentally challenging, and you will be living in relatively remote field conditions. Working with baboons can be particularly challenging, with researchers often required to walk ~ 20km/day across challenging terrain. You will typically work four to five days per week to the tune of approximately 55h/week. Proven ability to work and live amicably alongside others under field conditions is advantageous. All assistants must be able to speak English, and should have a full driver’s license; with manual/stick competence.

Support provided
I will provide free lodging at the research camp – with full electricity, internet, hot water, showers, kitchen, beds etc. – and will provide a contribution toward your food and general subsistence. I will contribute to the travel expenses of all assistants who stay for nine months or more, with full reimbursement following a 12-month commitment. All assistants must cover their own medical insurance and visa fees.

Term of appointments

March 2020. A minimum of a six-month commitment is required, but priority will be given to those who can commit to a longer term (maximum: 12 months).

Application deadline

Until positions have been filled.

Comments:

Please email me (richard.mcfarland@wisc.edu) a recent copy of your CV, including the names and contact details of two recent referees, a cover letter describing your interests, experience, and availability for this position.

Contact Information:

Richard McFarland

Department of Anthropology, UW–Madison, USA.

Website:

www.richmcfarland.com

Email address:

richard.mcfarland@wisc.edu