Volunteer Assistant- Frog Behavior in Panama (Spring 2015)
sue_bertram
Agency: Purdue University
Location: Panama
Job Category: Volunteer Opening
Salary: $200/month living expenses; housing provided
Description:
· Project: We are looking for a volunteer to assist in data collection for research on the evolution of vocalization behaviors in tropical frogs during the dry season in Panama. The volunteer will live and work alongside graduate staff and gain exposure to a variety of field techniques including video and live specimen capture. This experience will benefit students and post-graduates interested in research in animal behavior, ecology, herpetology, and the tropics.
· Location: The study sites are located within Soberania National Park, near Gamboa, Panama. The National Park is a renowned location for bird watching and includes several species of parrots, toucans, toucanets, and motmots. The Park’s 100+ mammal species include howler monkeys, sloths, anteaters, and iguanas.
· Duties: Assist in nocturnal data collection including: video capture and physical collection of frog predators and parasites, capture of female tree frogs and assistance in laboratory behavioral experiments, specimen preparation and equipment maintenance.
· Benefits:
o Lodging will be provided for the duration of the position as well as a $200/month stipend to cover additional living expenses. The volunteer assistant will be responsible for all other costs including international airfare ($500-$900 round trip).
· Qualifications:
o The applicant must provide proof of international health insurance and up-to-date vaccinations including hepatitis A and B.
o Applicant must be physically fit and able to lift and carry 40 lbs (18 kg) of equipment ¼ mile (.4 km) over rough terrain and endure potentially harsh environmental conditions including variable weather conditions and insects.
o Applicant must be able to work independently at night, often in remote locations.
o Applicants should be ready to participate in both field and lab work lasting 8+ hours. Field collection is depended on the weather, but applicants must be willing to work up to 6 nights a week.
· Preferred Qualifications:
o Coursework or work experience in ecology and conservation.
o Experience with field research and travelling outside of the US.
o Some knowledge of Spanish
· Time Period: We are seeking a volunteer who can commit for the entire duration of the project, early January to early March.
Contact: Interested applicants should send an email to hle...@purdue.edu with the subject header “Spring 2015 volunteer applicant.” Please include the following: 1) a single paged cover letter stating your interest in the position and any relevant information not in you CV including your knowledge of Spanish and the dates that you are available, 2) a CV containing any relevant field and work experience, 3) your contact information.