mercredi 24 septembre 2008

research assistant

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

Date Posted:
2008-09-12

Position Description:
For an ongoing project on feeding behaviour of bonobos at LuiKotale, Salonga National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo, we are searching for one research assistant. Field work includes behavioral observations of focal animals and fecal analyses. The candidate will be trained by a senior researcher before working independently.

Qualifications/Experience:
Above average physical condition, high resistance to psychological stress, English language skills, and solid field experience are essential requirements. Candidates with experience in collection of behavioral data and language skills in French will be preferred. Field work requires long-distance walking (up to 30 km per day) and working time often exceed 10 hours.

Given the difficult terrain and the extreme climate, work demands physical fitness and very high motivation. The proximity to persons from other cultures can lead to psychological stress and candidates must be prepared to adapt to difficult living conditions.

Salary/funding:
300 Euro per month

Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):
The project covers costs for two domestic flights and for visa. It contributes up to 800 Euro to an international return flight ONLY AFTER SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION of the appointment.

The project provides food and accomodation (tents) at the field site. Expenses for food and lodging during stays in Kinshasa ARE NOT COVERED. Expenses for private field equipment, medical supplies, and insurances CAN NOT BE COVERED by the project.

Term of Appointment:
9 months starting in December 2008

Application Deadline:
November 2008

Comments:
The field site is located in the province of Bandundu. Applicants are expected to search for information about the past and current political situation in the DRC. Candidates should also obtain detailed information about tropical diseases, their risks and their prevention. Before entering DRC, candidates must have a health insurance that covers expenses within Congo, including evaluation for medical treatment.

Contact Information:
Dr. Gottfried Hohmann
Deutscher Platz 6
Leipzig 04103
Germany

Telephone Number:
++49 341 3550 208

Website:
http://www.eva.mpg.de

E-mail Address:
hohmann@eva.mpg.de