ABS CO Staff
Volunteer needed as a research assistant in behavioral ecology of frogs in Borneo. We are seeking for a highly motivated research assistant to help with a study in bioacoustics and parental care behavior in frogs in Brunei Darussalam, Borneo. This is a unique opportunity to work in one of the biodiversity hotspots in the world. The Old World tropics offer a huge diversity in Animals and plants. This place is a hotspot for endemic and would be an amazing experience for anyone. I would look great in your CV and there is opportunities for an independent project while in the station. Scientist from all over the world come and go all the time, making it a great opportunity for networking. It is cheaper than a study abroad and equally fulfilling.
Duties:
The volunteer research assistant, after an initial training period will assist collecting behavioral data of the smooth guardian frog of Borneo. Data collection includes recording vocalizations, video recording, taking behavioral notes and continuous sampling of transects. In addition, lab work is required analyzing the recordings of the previous nights. The assistant is expected to work in harsh conditions. This study requires hiking in rough/muddy/steep terrain sometimes carrying heavy equipment for extended periods of time. The forest is full of biting insects and the occasional leech. The assistant would have to shift his/her sleeping schedule because most of the work is done at night. A typical night goes from 7 pm to 3:30 am.
For more information about the project contact johana...@uconn.edu
Living Conditions:
We will stay at the Kuala Belalong Field Studies Centre in Brunei Darussalam. The Centre is surrounded by lowland and ridge Dipterocarp forest with small areas of riverine and heath forest which have never been logged. We will be living in a wooden building in shared rooms. There is bathroom facilities and filtered watered. There is electricity at given times during the day. Internet access is limited (once every 3 weeks traveling by boat to the nearest town).
Eligibility:
Perfect opportunity for advanced undergraduates or recent graduates in Biology or related areas. The volunteer must be enthusiastic, well driven and willing to learn. Have a strong work ethic and good ability to get along with others in tight living conditions is essential.
Dates:
July 2013 – one month duration
September 2013 – Early November 2013 – starting and ending dates are flexible.
This is a complete volunteer position.
The volunteer will have to cover his/her travel expenses (flight to and from Brunei) as well as accommodation at the KBFSC. Meals and accommodation is around $40USD/per day.
If interested, please e-mail a resume/cv, cover letter, and a recommendation letter.