Primate-Jobs
Positions Available

Volunteer Research Assistants - Human-primate conflict

Hiring Organization:
Durham University

Date Posted:
2013-04-26

Position Description:
As part of Durham University’s Primate and Predator Project, located in a remote area of Limpopo Province, South Africa, we are looking for keen and motivated Volunteer Research Assistants for the human-primate conflict stream of the project. This PhD project is investigating the scale and nature of crop raiding on commercial farms in the area, as well as assessing local perceptions and tolerance towards primate ‘pests’. The data will enable strategies for mitigating risk to be evaluated.

Research Assistants will be expected to carry out behavioural observations of primates on farms, crop damage assessment surveys, camera trapping and data entry. As the PhD involves a social anthropological aspect, assistants will be expected to interact with local farmers, communicate positively and have knowledge of the project so that it can be conveyed and promoted.

Qualifications/Experience:
The positions are suitable for a biological sciences (or similar) graduate or post-graduate, with prior field experience with primates, or with all or any of the techniques mentioned above. Applicants should be enthusiastic, hardworking and a flexible team member, with the ability to work independently to a high standard and be competent working unsupervised. Applicants should also be physically fit, ready for long challenging days spent on farms with little or no shade. Possession of a valid driver’s licence (manual) is essential; assistants will be expected to drive themselves to focal farms.

Salary/funding:
Unfortunately funding is not available for Research Assistants, so applicants should have sufficient funds to cover airfares, accommodation, food, medical insurance and any equipment they require.

Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):
The project is based at Mogalakwena Research Centre (www.researchlimpopo.com). Accommodation is in the form of dorm rooms (sleeping 4-6) with a shared ablutions block (hot showers) and a communal kitchen and braai area. Rent is ZAR4,000 (GB£283/US$440 at current exchange) per month, which includes use of the Research Centre facilities and internet access.

Term of Appointment:
Ideally we would like Research Assistants to start at the end of June and request a minimum stay of 3 months providing a one month probation period is passed, after which a longer stay can be discussed. Please indicate your availability on your application.

Application Deadline:
To apply for the position or for further details please contact Leah Findlay at l.j.findlay@durham.ac.uk. Please include a brief cover letter and CV. Applications will be accepted until positions are filled.

Contact Information:
Leah Findlay
South Africa

E-mail Address:
l.j.findlay@durham.ac.uk