Hiring Organization:University of Texas at San Antonio
Date Posted:2009-01-26
Position Description:
I am currently seeking one or more field assistants to work on a field study investigating the social organization of two groups of threatened howler monkeys (Alouatta palliata aequatorialis) in the context of a translocation from a disturbed habitat on Ecuador’s coast, into a protected reserve along the lower Andes where they historically ranged. As such, field assistants will be required to collect detailed behavioral data on the two groups for an extended period both before and after they are translocated. Field assistants will also help in conducting a census of the small howler population at the source site, collecting fecal samples from all population individuals to obtain DNA information, and radio-tracking monkeys after translocation. The project, therefore, provides an ideal opportunity to gain field experience for those interested in both primate social behavior and applied conservation.
Qualifications/Experience:
Ideally, field assistants will have a Bachelor’s degree in anthropology, biology, or a related field. Prior field experience and/or work with animals is preferred, but not essential. Some travel experience outside of their home country is also helpful (preferably in the tropics), as is a working knowledge of Spanish. Most importantly, applicants must 1) be interested in primate behavior and conservation; 2) be in good physical condition; 3) feel comfortable working long hours in the forest, often alone; 4) be emotionally mature and comfortable far away from family and friends for long periods; 5) not be afraid of bugs, snakes, or spiders; and 6) have patience and the ability to maintain a very good sense of humor under difficult conditions.
Salary/funding:
Funding is not available at this time, but will be considered for partial reimbursement should it become available, and upon successful completion of the term of the appointment. Field assistants are responsible for their airfare, accommodation, food, medical insurance, immunizations (yellow fever, typhoid, hepatitis, rabies recommended), visas (approximately $200 USD), and personal expenses. Accommodation, food, and living expenses are expected to cost approximately $20/day at either site. Conditions are rather nice for field work, including lovely meals provided at the translocation site, and full facilities including hot showers.
Term of Appointment:
A minimum of 6 months commitment is required, but longer would be most welcome! Positions are available beginning in June 2009, and will continue on a rotating basis through to the end of the project in August 2010.
Application Deadline:
Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis, but please apply as early as possible.
Comments:
If you are interested, please forward a copy of your CV, at least 2 professional references, and a letter of interest indicating your availability to me at lisa.corewyn@utsa.edu. Thank you for your interest in the project.
Contact Information:
Department of Anthropology, One UTSA CircleSan Antonio, TX 78240USA
Telephone Number:210-452-1431
E-mail Address:lisa.corewyn@utsa.edu
Telephone Number:210-452-1431
E-mail Address:lisa.corewyn@utsa.edu