Agroscope Job Advertisement

 Federal Department of Economic Affairs,Education and Research EAERAgroscope Agroscope Job Advertisement PositionPhD project: “Assessing cubicle partitions for dairy cows with regard to animal welfare – Development of a standardised method to be applied in the Swiss authorisation procedure for mass-produced housing installations” ProjectCubicle partitions control the lying-down and standing-up movements of dairy cows with the aim of preventing, to the maximum extent possible, soiling of the lying area. In addition, cubicle partitions must not hinder cows’ species-specific movements. The aim of this three-year project is to develop and validate a sensor-based method for analysing behavioural patterns in cubicles to enable the objective assessment of the effect of the different types of cubicle partitions used on commercial farms on animal welfare. Tasks-Developingand validatinga new methodtoanalysecow behavioural patterns during lying-down and standing-up movements using accelerometer and video recordings at our animal research facility. - Applying the method in studies on 20 Swiss dairy farms. - Producing scientific papers in English, participating in science conferences and presenting your findings to an expert audience.Requirements-Master'sdegree in Agronomy, Biology, Veterinary Medicineora related specialist field- Interest in applied research in ethology and dairy cows- Experience and interest in analysing sensor-based and animal-related datasets- Ability to work independently and accurately; cat. B driving licence - Experience in dealing with standard PC programs and statistics software- Good knowledge of two official Swiss languages and English; French an advantage; language of the workplaceis GermanOrganisationAgroscope is the Swiss federal centre of excellence for research in the agriculture and food sector. Itsresearchers carry out their work at a number of sites in Switzerland. Headquartered in Bern-Liebefeld,Agroscope is attached to the Swiss Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research EAER.The ‘Farm-Animal Welfare’ Research Group at the Tänikon site (canton of Thurgau) deals with the improvement of animal-friendly housing and the assessment of livestock welfare.We offer you a varied job in an interesting work environment, as well as thorough initial training. Agroscope boasts excellent research facilities and well-equipped laboratories. You will enjoy flexible working hours, a staff restaurantand good employee benefits.Place of WorkAgroscope Tänikon, 8356 Ettenhausen TGSalary CategoryAccording to Swiss National Science Foundation guidelinesEmployment Level100%(full-time)ApplicationIf this challenge appeals to you and you meet our requirements profile, we look forward to receiving your online application (covering letter, CV, copies of degree certificates), including the contact information of two referees, at the following address: www.stelle.admin.ch; Ref. no. 44391. Deadline: 12 February 2021. For further information, please contact Dr. Madeleine Scriba, Project Leader at Agroscope Tänikon, at madeleine.scriba@agroscope.admin.ch or (tel.) +41 (0)58 482 0102 (please do not send your application to this emailaddress).Startingdateof employment: 1stMay2021,or as agreed. Duration: 3 years.

Study of inter-individual variation and thermal adaptation traits in parasitic micro-wasps usingcomputer-vision approaches

 Postdoc position:Study of inter-individual variation and thermal adaptation traits in parasitic micro-wasps usingcomputer-vision approachesInstitut Sophia Agrobiotech, Sophia Antipolis, France- Supervisor (name, affiliation, email): ​Vincent Calcagno, INRAE, Institut Sophia Agrobiotech,vincent.calcagno@inrae.fr- Laboratory and/or research groupInstitut Sophia Agrobiotech (INRAE, CNRS, Université Côte d’Azur) is a leading research unit inbiocontrol, and specifically on the use of insects as eco-friendly substitutes of chemicalinsecticides. It hosts a Biological resource Center dedicated to the rearing and study of more than100 strains of Trichogramma micro-wasps, one of the most used macroorganisms for cropprotection (aka “intelligent dust” for their minute size; see ​here​). We are interested in thebehavior, ecology and evolution of these insects and how they determine their efficiency whenmass-released in fields. In the context of ANR project BIDIME (2020-2023) we are specificallyinterested in the variation of Trichogramma species, populations and individuals with respect tothermal adaptation, e.g. cold/heat tolerance.Our group is developing video-tracking and computer methods vision to automatically acquire andanalyze large amounts of data on the movements and behaviors of groups of insects in the lab,and our unit is setting-up a dedicated experimental platform. This allows to study inter-individual,inter-population and inter-specific variation with high resolution, in order to assist strain selectionor amelioration.- Project descriptionThe postdoc will be in charge of analyzing experimental data (video recordings), currently beinggenerated in our lab by another postdoc with whom he/she will collaborate. The dataset describesthe movements and micro-movements of groups of insects from about 30 geographicallycontrasted populations in two species, when subjected to steady decreases/increases intemperature between chilling point and room temperature. Analyses will seek to evaluate thevariability in thermal biology and movement-related traits at several scales, and test for theexistence of adaptive trade-offs among these traits.To address these questions the postdoc will (i) apply/extend existing methods we have developedin the past years to this original dataset, and (ii) develop new methods involving deep-learningalgorithms to improve the automatic classification of behavioral patterns and inter-individualdifferences. The first objective will involve developing methods, applying them, analyzing,interpreting and communicating the results (including as software packages/methods papers). Thesecond objective will be conducted in collaboration with the SAM Inria center, located nearby inSophia Antipolis, specialized in computer-vision and machine-learning algorithms for humanbehavior and classification. In the context of the UCA-funded project MASCOT, we seek toimplement these methods to our questions in insect ecology, and the postdoc will also contributeto these developments. 

- Candidate profile●PhD in Biology/Ecology/Biostatistics●Experience in behavioral/movement ecology and, ideally, image/video analysis methods●Skills and interest in programming: R, Java and/or Python.●Strong background in statistics●Good communication and article preparation skills (English)●Taste for team-working and interdisciplinary work- FundingThe position is funded by ANR (project ​BIDIME​) for 12 months.Start date: from March 1st 2021.> How to applySend a statement of research interests (<1 page), a detailed CV, and the contact of two scientificreferences to Vincent Calcagno. Applications will be reviewed, and select candidates interviewed,until the position is filled

Job Opening at UC Davis, CA National Primate Research Center: ANML TCHN SR (Sr Animal Technician - Night Shift)

 

Department Description

 

The California National Primate Research Center, CNPRC at UC Davis, is an Organized Research Unit that conducts interdisciplinary research programs on significant human health problems where non-human primates is the animal of choice. In addition to its major efforts in the area of research, the CNPRC is also committed to both UC Davis and NIH missions of teaching and service.  

 Job Summary

Under direction of the Animal Resources Supervisor provide routine animal husbandry, experimental technical support, facility sanitation, and custodial duties including assurance of animal safety in the indoor and outdoor animal colony.

Perform responsibilities according to established husbandry standard operating procedures to maintain husbandry requirements for animal health, psychological well-being of non-human primates; maintenance of hazardous containment and safety programs; and research protocols, consistent with the existing federal, state, local and university regulations.

Understand implementation of infection control practices; and provide technical assistance as directed by faculty and researchers, SOPs and IACUC protocols related to the care and welfare of non-human primates used in biomedical research.

Responsible for environmental maintenance, basic animal care, employee safety, and conducting proper technical procedures as requested by supervisors, principal investigators, or veterinarians. Review record keeping procedures; ensure safety standards are maintained; and isolate infected animals.

POSITION INFORMATION

Salary Range	$22.43 – $26.59/HR.
No. of Positions	1
Appointment Type	Career
Percentage of Time	Fulltime, 100%
Shift Hours	TBD, 5:00pm to 5:00am
Location	UC Davis
Union Representation	Yes
Benefits Eligible	Yes
Apply by Date	2/3/2021

 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Handle diversified tasks that may often require squatting, kneeling, bending, stooping or standing up to 8 hours per day.

Position self to maneuver feeds and bedding materials.

Drive and operate forklift and tractor

Operate the Cage Washer

Handle, move, and transport animals.

Substantial contact with animals, including repeated capture and prolonged restraint of animals.

Push rolling cages/racks that may weigh from 250-600 pounds.

Lift and move sack of chow weighing 25 lbs.

 

WORK ENVIRONMENT

This position is subject to Medical Surveillance procedures and review in accordance with Federal and State Laws and Regulations and University Policy.

TB test or chest x-ray, blood sample, counseling/orientation interview with Occupational Medicine is required before employment and annually thereafter.

Employee shall participate in required preventative medical and medical monitoring programs to meet Federal, State and University requirements.

Perform assigned duties in BioSafety Level (BSL) 1, 2, or 3 facility where nonhuman primates may be either naturally or experimentally infected with potentially hazardous infectious agents such as HIV, SIV, or Herpes B virus.

Required to wear protective clothing and respirator in circumstances that require personal protection from infectious diseases and animals.

Employee is personally responsible for following health and safety guidelines/instructions.

Work indoors and outdoors on uneven ground daily throughout the year, including rain, warmer to hot temperatures, or cold weather that is consistent with Northern California climate.

Restricted vacation during peak workload periods. Work irregular shifts, including overtime, weekends, holidays, and evenings on short notice. During working hours, carry an operable cellular phone & pager (as assigned).

California National Primate Research Center employees are directly or indirectly engaged in the performance of work on Federal or State contracts and grants as well as periodically come into contact with controlled substances; and are expected to abide by the UC Policy on Substance Abuse, the Federal Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988, and the State Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1990.

UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco free campus effective January 1, 2014. Smoking, the use of smokeless tobacco products, and the use of unregulated nicotine products (e-cigarettes) will be strictly prohibited on any UC Davis owned or leased property, indoors and outdoors, including parking lots and residential space.  

QUALIFICATIONS

Required:

-American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS) technician certification: Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) or Laboratory Animal Technician (LAT) or equivalent experience or possession of certification within 1 year from date of hire.

-Journey-level knowledge and experience as an animal technician in biohazard containment procedures necessary for performance in BioSafety Level (BSL) 2 or 3 facility.

- Skill administering IM injections and performing venipuncture and sample collection of nonhuman primates.

Preferred: 

-Skills to effectively communicate with supervisors, peers and subordinates.

-Experience recognizing changes in physical appearance or behavior of non-human primates; and to handle and train primates including capture and physical restraint of macaques.

-Skills to capture animals in a net within a half acre enclosure on uneven terrain.

-Skills to write reports legibly with attention to detail.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Background Check

This position is a critical position and subject to a background check. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of background investigation including criminal history and identity checks.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer advancing inclusive excellence.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories covered by the UC nondiscrimination policy. DIRECTIONS: 1. Select the link to access our careers site.  2. Sign In to access your account or if you are not an existing user select the New User link to create one.   3. Review the job description and select the Apply button to begin your application. https://careerspub.universityofcalifornia.edu/psp/ucdavis/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRAM.HRS_APP_SCHJOB.GBL?Page=HRS_APP_JBPST&Action=U&SiteId=7&FOCUS=Applicant&JobOpeningId=14677&PostingSeq=1

Behavioral Management Technician

 Hiring Organization:  Tulane National Primate Center

Position Description:  Performs a variety of tasks related to the implementation and maintenance of the behavioral management program for nonhuman primates and other laboratory animal species as directed by the Behavioral Management Program Manager.  Tasks include but are not limited to:

• Determines potential non-human primate social partners, completes social introductions, monitors progress and makes decisions about outcomes of introductions
• Performs positive reinforcement training
• Identifies animals that are in need to specialized intervention for observed behavioral problems and implements intervention practices to improve behavior
• Collects observational data for behavioral studies.
• Organizes and performs technical duties, such as preparation, maintenance and distribution of enrichment materials, devices and equipment
• Designs, develops and tests enrichment techniques, new ideas for enhancing captive environments, and interventions in terms of practicality, use by animals, and efficacy for improving behavior

Qualifications/Experience:     

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE    

• Bachelor's Degree with a background in behavioral sciences and 2 years of experience in laboratory animal care OR 4 years of experience in laboratory animal care plus certification as an AALAS LAT OR 6 years of experience in laboratory animal care

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Experience working with non-human primates
• Experience working in an enrichment or behavioral research program

Salary:

Depends upon experience

To apply:

Send your resume to rmcandrew@tulane.edu

Conservation Manager Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary Sierra Leone

 

Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary has an expanding Community Outreach Programme (TCOP) that seeks to protect the Western chimpanzee and their habitats by taking a natural resource management approach to sensitize, conduct research, contribute to a human-wildlife co-existence and promote livelihoods in Sierra Leone in both rural and urban areas.

The Conservation Manager will develop, coordinate, implement and report the different programmes and projects led by the TCOP department.

Read more: https://www.tacugama.com/jobs/

To apply, send your Cover Letter and CV to info@tacugama.com

Warm regards

Kareen Zabow

Operations Manager 

Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary

Postdoc on antipredator defences & predator cognition MPI Chemical Ecology, Jena

 A postdoc is available to work with Dr Hannah Rowland (Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology) and Dr John Skelhorn (University of Newcastle) to explore various aspects of masquerade.

Background: Masquerade is an antipredator defence strategy in which species resemble inedible objects, often inanimate, such as twigs, stones and bird-droppings (Skelhorn, 2015; Skelhorn, Rowland, & Ruxton, 2010; Skelhorn, Rowland, Speed, & Ruxton, 2010). Masqueraders are misclassified by their predators for the object that they resemble (Skelhorn, Rowland, Speed, et al., 2010). The function of masquerade has been tested and confirmed in the lab, but not in the field.

This post: we will explore the antipredator benefits of masquerade in the field, and the information ecology that predators do (or don’t) use about masquerade. The appointed postdoc will design and conduct a series of field-based predation experiments using artificial prey, and work towards using social network information about predation that can be collected on PIT tagged populations of bird predators.

Requirements: We are looking for someone who can lead field-based predation experiments, and manage a team of field assistants. Excellent field skills will be paramount, including experience of creating artificial prey, conducting intensive and long-periods of predation experiments, and managing multiple sites and experimental blocks. Applicants should have the strong communicative skills that fieldwork requires. Experience in studying animal cognition is desirable. The candidate will also be willing to learn how to incorporate social behavioural data into their experimental design and analysis. This project will involve fieldwork in both Germany and the UK, and will be based in Germany.

Further information

Specific skills and experience: please see https://drive.google.com/file/d/17BVF4cxbE3jGihtF02e6xN6jRbc-_xGr/view?usp=sharing 

Start date: March 2021 or sometime shortly after. Flexibility in start date may be required (and provided) in light of the current pandemic.

Funding: Until 31/01/2023 

Location: Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Field sites: Jena, Germany, and University of Cambridge Madingley Wood

Can I work remotely? Field-based components of the research will take place in Jena and Cambridge. It is anticipated that the appointed postdoc will spend approx. 9-12 months in the field (not necessarily continuously). The candidate will be based in Jena.

Is there money to cover the postdoc attending conferences? Yes. Roughly 1 per year of appointment.

How to apply? Submit your CV, a cover letter outlining how you fit the selection criteria, and names of 3 people who will write you a letter of recommendation.

For further information contact Hannah Rowland hrowland@ice.mpg.de 

 
References
Skelhorn, J. (2015). Masquerade. Current Biology, 25, R643–R644.
Skelhorn, J., Rowland, H. M., & Ruxton, G. D. (2010). The evolution and ecology of masquerade. Biological Journal of the Linnean Society, 99(1), 1-8.
Skelhorn, J., Rowland, H. M., Speed, M. P., & Ruxton, G. D. (2010). Masquerade: Camouflage Without Crypsis. Science, 327, 51.

Offre de stage M1: goélands argentés

Résumé du projet

 

Ce projet fait partie d’un projet plus large sur la communication du goéland argenté qui vise à mieux comprendre le contexte d’émission et la fonction des cris de cette espèce (tout particulièrement du cri d’alarme). Nous recherchons deux stagiaires en M1 qui travailleront en parallèle à Paris et Lorient respectivement. Les stagiaires mèneront des observations et enregistrements de goélands sauvages(au nid et/ou en dehors des colonies) puis participeront à l’analyse des données recueillies. 

 

Trois sujets de stage sont disponibles, selon les préférences des candidats sélectionnéset les possibilités de collecte: 

-Sujet 1: Contexte d’émission et sémantique du cri d’alarme chez le goéland argenté: quels facteurs influencent l’émission et la structure des cris d’alarme émis? Quel est le message exact du cri? 

 -Sujet 2: variabilité intra- et interindividuelle du cri d’alarme (i.e. variation du nombre d’éléments et de la structure acoustique fine des cris): dans quelle mesure le cri d’alarme du goéland contient-il des indicateurs d’identité en comparaison d’autres cris du répertoire? 

-Sujet 3: Lois statistiques et compression dans la communication du goéland argenté: Recherche des lois de Zipfs et Menzerath dans le répertoire de l’espèce (ces «lois» linguistiques reflètent le principe de compression et visent à évaluer l’efficacité énergétique de séquences vocales spontanées). 

Profil recherché

Nous recherchons deux étudiants en Master 1 ayant des bases en comportement / cognition animale et intéressés par le travail de terrain. Idéalement, les candidats posséderont les compétences et qualités suivantes: 

-Formation initiale en éthologie (ou expérience d’observations comportementales)

-Volonté de faire du terrain, parfois en conditions difficiles (pluie, vent)

-Ne pas avoir peur des oiseaux marins

 -Capacité à travailler en autonomie relative (chaque stagiaire étant sur un site différent) 

-Familiarité avec le logiciel R (ou volonté d’apprendre)

Encadrants 

Le projet sera encadré par Camille Coye au sein de l’Institut Jean-Nicod. Les étudiants seront co-supervisés par Mélissa Berthet et Guillaume Dezecache (UCA, LAPSCO, CNRS), et le travail sera réalisé en collaboration avec Philippe Schlenker (Institut Jean-Nicod, DEC ENS) et Emmanuel Chemla (LSPC). 

Lieu du stage

Les observations comportementales auront lieu à Paris et Lorient (un site par stagiaire). L’analyse des données aura lieu à Paris, au sein de l’Institut Jean-Nicod.  

Pour candidater:Veuillez faire parvenir un CV et une lettre de motivation (détaillant votre adéquation avec le projet et mentionnant quel sujet aurait votre préférence) le 10févrierau plus tard à l’adresse suivante: camillecoye@gmail.com