Summer Field Course, Mongolia

About Us:

The Zoological Society of London (ZSL) is a world leader in wildlife conservati on, science and educati on. Our mission is to promote and achieve the worldwide conservati on of animals and their habitats. Through our eff orts, we guide and enable others all across the world. Protecti ng, educati ng, inspiring – working for wildlife. As a charity we have acti ve conservati on projects in over 50 countries together with our two Zoos, ZSL London Zoo and ZSL Whipsnade Zoo.

Who the course is for:

The course is aimed at students wishing to gain valuable field training, and help prepare them for a career in ecology and conservation. Students will be trained in monitoring techniques including camera trapping, small mammal surveying, and bird mist netting. The course will provide an amazing opportunity for those who want to learn more about practical conservation techniques and Mongolian biodiversity and conservation issues alongside local researchers and students. We have run thirteen field courses, training over 290 students out on the Mongolian Steppe.

What the course offers:

The aims of the courses are to:

• Provide students with valuable field experience.

• Develop students’ ability to ask questions and test hypotheses.

• Introduce students to the most novel, up-to-date conservation techniques, as well as classic field techniques.

• Enthuse the next generation of wildlife biologists to develop further in their studies.

Skills taught in the course include small mammal trapping, bird mist netting, and remote camera trapping. Lectures include experimental design, principles of conservation biology, and Mongolian ecology and conservation.

The Mongolian experience

For the duration of the course, students will live and be taught in traditional felt tents (gers), and will have the opportunity to experience and learn about Mongolian culture, customs, and history.

Where are the courses held?

In 2015 the course will be held in the unique Mongolian steppe grasslands, about 100km from the capital, Ulaanbaatar, in an area of incredible natural beauty.

When is the course run?

Preliminary dates for the course are 1st – 14th August with 12 days in the field and a couple of days in the capital, Ulaanbaatar. The course consists of lectures and discussion groups, and supplemented by practical field project work where students will learn valuable techniques for biodiversity monitoring.

Who will teach the courses?

The courses will be taught by conservation practitioners and researchers from the Zoological Society of London and in country partners based at the National University of Mongolia. All course lecturers have a wealth of research and field experience from which the students will benefit.

What does it cost?

The course fee is £1200.This includes all tuition, travel costs within Mongolia, accommodation and food in the field and a hostel stay in Ulaanbaatar. Flights, insurance, visa and food in Ulaanbaatar are not included.

For further information please contact Julien Godfrey at: julien.godfrey@zsl.org

How to apply:

To apply to join the summer field course in 2016 please provide the following:

• A transcript of university grades (does not need to be final transcript).

• One page or 500 words on how you feel you might benefit from the course. Give a little background to your choice of studies and interests

• Your CV

Please submit your application via email to sfcapplications@zsl.org.

Deadline for applications is Sunday 1st May 2016. You will be notified when we receive your application.