Field assistant in Iguazu, Argentina

Field assistant in Iguazu, Argentina

Hiring Organization:
German Primate Center

Position Description:
We are looking for highly motivated volunteer field assistants for a project on the behavioral ecology of tufted capuchin monkeys in Iguazú National Park, Argentina. The current projects focus on aspects of mating and anti-predator behavior and vocalizations given in these contexts. The field season will last from mid-April to the end of August 2012. Assistants will be trained to recognize at least all adult individuals in the study groups, collect behavioral data via different sampling methods (e.g., focal, scan and ad libitum sampling), and make audio recordings of vocalizations. Other responsibilities will include assistance in conducting field experiments (using vocalization playbacks, controlled provisioning, and predator models), collecting fecal samples for genetic and hormone analysis, and data entry. An initial training in field hormone extraction, genetic sample storage, and acoustic analysis will be provided as well. All those participating in the project will share some “household” responsibilities, including cooking, food shopping, and keeping shared spaces tidy. The assistants will work approximately 25 days per month, spending at least 8 hours per day in the forest and an additional two hours or so per day in the lab entering data into spreadsheets.

This experience can be considered as an internship for your own future research. If you are interested in pursuing a graduate degree in primate behavior and ecology, this will be an ideal experience. We strongly encourage assistants to develop and conduct an independent research project (e.g., for a thesis) as long as data collection and observation protocols do not interfere with other responsibilities.

Qualifications/Experience:
Although not strictly required, assistants with BS/BA in Biology, Ecology, Animal Behavior, Physical Anthropology, Primatology, or a related field are preferred. Previous experience in field work with animals, traveling in foreign countries, and an ability to speak basic Spanish are also advantageous. Assistants will need to be prepared to live in close quarters with other participants of the project and with other researchers staying at the field station. Being cooperative, responsible, and hard-working are essential. Experience with collecting behavioral data is preferred, and a keen interest in primate behavioral ecology is a must. In addition, applicants must be in good physical and mental condition, be very patient, and be self-reliant when alone in the forest.

Time in the field can be quite uncomfortable, and you will be expected to work rain or shine. This portion of the project will be conducted during the Argentine winter, when days are sometimes quite cold and rainy, but hot and humid days can also be expected. Mosquitoes are often very intense, and you may regularly encounter such dangers as bees and wasps, venomous snakes, and big cats. In addition, yellow fever, dengue fever, and leishmaniasis are all risks in the research area.

Salary/funding:
The position does not pay a salary.

Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):
All food costs and local transportation while working on the project will be covered. The assistant will have to cover his/her own field station fees, which currently run approximately $210 USD/month, although we are expecting an increase in the rates to be implemented soon by the park service. The assistant will be responsible for all travel to and from the field site. Contingent upon the availability of funds AND completion of the entire field season, a portion of the costs incurred while working on the project may be reimbursed, although this cannot be guaranteed at this time. All equipment needed to work on the project will be provided. Assistants will be required to have their own health insurance and should have all vaccinations up to date.

Term of Appointment:
About mid-April or early May until September 1, 2012.

Application Deadline:
March 15, 2012

Comments:
If interested, please email a cover letter indicating your previous experience and reason for applying, a CV, and the names and contact information for two academic references to the email address below, with the subject line “tufted capuchins”. Please do not hesitate to contact us with questions.

Contact Information:
Barbara Tiddi and Brandon Wheeler
Kellnerweg 4
Goettingen, none 37077
Germany

Website:
http://www.cog-ethol.de/en/people_2.php?PID=184

E-mail Address:
batiddi@gmail.com