Research Assistant Positions
Description
Every year we recruit approximately six volunteer field assistants students to join our research projects studying wild chacma baboons in South Africa. Positioned at one of our field sites, you will learn to follow and identify wild groups of chacma baboon and will be trained in a range of behavioural and ecological data collection techniques. You will contribute to ongoing data collection, supporting a range of projects, and will be responsible for the general running of the research camp. Applicants should be aware that the study sites are home to dangerous animals, including leopards and snakes, and that field work is conducted on foot.
Eligibility & Experience
All applicants must be in possession of an undergraduate qualification in a relevant discipline (e.g., zoology, environmental science, ecology, psychology, anthropology, nature conservation). Previous field experience is desirable, but not essential. Applicants should be physically fit and resilient. Days in the field are long and physically challenging, and you will be living in remote field conditions. Working with baboons can be particularly challenging, with researchers required to walk up to ~20km/day across rocky terrain. You will typically work four-five days per week to the tune of approximately 45h/week. Proven ability to work and live amicably alongside others under field conditions is advantageous. All applicants should be able to speak English. Possession of a full driver’s license is desirable. Volunteers will all live on the reserve for the duration of their placement.
Support Provided
We will provide free lodging at the research camps (Swebeswebe pictured), equipped with full electricity, internet, hot running water, showers, kitchen, beds etc. We will also provide each volunteer with a contribution toward their food and general subsistence. Volunteers may be required to share a room. Funds are available to reimburse the travel expenses for all volunteers who complete their full placement. All volunteers will need to provide their own medical aid, hiking boots, a backpack, and bush clothing.
Start date: Ongoing
Term: 12 months
For informal inquiries, please email: richard.mcfarland(at)ntu.ac.uk