Hiring Organization:
Roehampton University
Date Posted:
2008-10-31
Position Description:
I am looking for an independent and capable research assistant to assist in a study of fission-fusion sociality in two troops of olive baboons at Gashaka-Gumti National Park, in Northeast Nigeria. The study area is set in a mosaic of woodland, grassland, and lowland, gallery, and montane forest. The assistant will be expected to collect full-day behavioural observations, and phenological data. Accommodation is within the National Park, near Gashaka village, and at 3-hours distance from the village. Usually, there is power at both field stations.
This position is ideal for someone interested in gaining field experience as preparation for post-graduate study. You will learn various field methods relevant for the study of behavioural ecology and animal behaviour.
Qualifications/Experience:
Ideally, a research assistant has an undergraduate degree in anthropology, biology, or a related field. Previous fieldwork experience is preferred, but not essential. Experience with living or working in a foreign country, especially in the tropics, is a plus.
The applicant should:
- be physically fit
- be willing to work for long hours in difficult terrain
- be interested in primate behaviour
- be hardworking and conscientious
- feel comfortable working in isolated field conditions
- be able to maintain a positive attitude under what can be difficult conditions
Salary/funding:
No salary.
Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):
Research assistants must pay for their own inoculations, prophylaxis, health insurance, field clothes, and personal expenses. I will make a contribution towards food and lodging at the field site. Depending on the outcome of several external grant applications I will also make a contribution towards travel and visa costs.
Term of Appointment:
5 months
Application Deadline:
The project will start in January 2009. Applications should be submitted by 20 November 2008.
Comments:
If you are interested, please submit the following by email:
1) your CV
2) an application letter
3) names and email addresses of 2 referees
Contact Information:
Nienke Alberts
School of Human & Life Sciences, Roehampton University, Whitelands College, Holybourne Avenue
London SW15 4JD
United Kingdom
Telephone Number:
+44 (0)20 8392 3473
E-mail Address:
baboonproject@yahoo.co.uk