lundi 14 avril 2008

Research assistant, Max-Planck-Institute for Evol. Anthropology

Hiring Organization: Max-Planck-Institute for Evol. Anthropology


Position Description:
For an ongoing study on the behavioral ecology of bonobos at Lui Kotale, Salonga National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo, we are searching for one field assistant. Responsibilities include focal follows, collection of behavioral data and collection of urine samples. The assistant will participate in an ongoing PhD study and will be trained by the PhD student before working independently.

Qualifications/Experience:
Essential requirements are high resistance to psychological and physical stress, experiences in collecting behavioral data, and a the ability to work in a team. Field-work requires long-distance walking (up to 30 km per day) and working time often exceeds 10 hours. Given the difficult terrain and the extreme climate, work demands not only physical fitness but also high motivation. The proximity to other persons can lead to psychological stress and candidates must be prepared to adapt to difficult living conditions at the field site.

As most members of the team speak English, this language is usulally sufficient for communication. However, for communication with local assistants, skills in French or African languages such as Lingala are required and candidates with such skills will be preferred.

Salary/funding: 300 Euro per month

Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):
The project will cover costs for visa and the expenses for domestic flights. It also contributes up to 800 Euro to an international return ticket. This money will be reimbursed only AFTER SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION of a 9-month term of appointment. The project provides food (a melange of local and western food) and offers lodging (tents) at the field site. Note that expenses for food and lodging during the stay in Kinshasa are NOT covered by the project. Expenses for private field eqiupment, medical supplies and insurances can NOT be covered by the project.

Term of Appointment: 9 months (starting in June 2008)
Application Deadline: 15 th of May, 2008

Comments:
The field site is located in the province of Bandundu, Democratic Republic of Congo. Applicants are expected to be informed about the past and current political situation in the DRC, and about the potentila risks coming from tropical diseases.

Contact Information:
Dr. Gottfried Hohmann
Deutscher Platz 6
Leipzig 04103
Germany
++49 341 3550 208
http://www.eva.mpg.de
hohmann@eva.mpg.de