Volunteer Field Research Assistant: Olive Baboons, Nigeria.

Position Description: I am looking for an independent and capable research assistant to assist in a study of fission-fusion sociality in two troops of olive baboons at Gashaka-Gumti National Park, in Northeast Nigeria. The study area is set in a mosaic of woodland, grassland, and lowland, gallery, and montane forest. The assistant will be expected to collect full-day behavioural observations, and phenological data. Accommodation is within the National Park, near Gashaka village, and at 3-hours distance from the village. Usually, there is power at both field stations.

This position is ideal for someone interested in gaining field experience as preparation for post-graduate study. You will learn various field methods relevant for the study of behavioural ecology and animal behaviour.

Qualifications / Experience: Ideally, a research assistant has an undergraduate degree in anthropology, biology, or a related field. Previous fieldwork experience is preferred, but not essential. Experience with living or working in a foreign country, especially in the tropics, is a plus. The applicant should:
- be physically fit                                                                                                                    - be willing to work for long hours in difficult terrain
- be interested in primate behaviour
- be hardworking and conscientious
- feel comfortable working in isolated field conditions
- be able to maintain a positive attitude under what can be difficult conditions

Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging): Research assistants must pay for their own inoculations, prophylaxis, health insurance, field clothes, and personal expenses. I will make a contribution towards food and lodging at the field site. Depending on the outcome of several external grant applications I will also make a contribution towards travel and visa costs.

Term of Appointment: 5 months

Application Deadline: The project will start in January 2009. Applications should be submitted by 20 November 2008.

Comments: If you are interested, please submit the following by email:
1) your CV
2) an application letter
3) names and email addresses of 2 referees

Contact Information: Nienke Alberts, School of Human and Life Sciences, Roehampton University, Whiteland's College, Holybourne Avenue, London, SW15 4JD, United Kingdom

E-mail Address: baboonproject@yahoo.co.uk