Vacancy Description
Two research assistant positions are available in a project focused on breeding behavior of weavers at
the Mpala Research Centre. The desired applicants will have an interest in science and research as well as in working with birds. These jobs will include various tasks from helping to read color bands, helping to band birds, monitoring nests, and performing behavioral observations and data entry.
Applicants should have field research experience and be willing to work in all types of weather conditions and for long hours. Applicants must be able to work independently or as a team- Each position will be described below.
POSITION 1: PRE-SEASON AND BREEDING SEASON ASSISTANT
Period: January-July 2019
This position will be primarily responsible for helping to band birds before the breeding season and monitoring nests and observing nests once the breeding season begins. Some of the work must be done independently but most will be done alongside other team members.
Required qualifications:
1. Experience handling and banding birds and
2. Knowing how to use binoculars-
3. Applicants must be able to walk for long periods of time, potentially in bad weather, and must be able to carry heavy equipment-
4. Applicants must have basic computer skills in order to help with data entry-
The following qualifications are desirable but not required:
- Having a valid driver’s license,
- Being able to read color band combinations on birds,
- Experience performing behavioral observations of animals,
- Prior experience monitoring nests-
POSITION 2: SHORT TERM ASSISTANT
Period: March-May 2019
This position will be responsible for helping to monitor nests during the breeding season and observing nests. Some of the work must be done independently but most will be done alongside other team members.
Required qualifications:
1. Being able to walk for long periods of time, potentially in bad weather, and being able to carry
heavy equipment.
2. Experience handling and banding birds
3. Using binoculars,
4. Basic computer skills,
5. Having a valid driver’s license,
6. Able to read color band combinations on birds,
7. Experience performing behavioral observations of animals,
8. Prior experience monitoring nests.
To apply for either position, please send a single pdf attachment (file name formatted as lastname_firstname_date.pdf) to [email protected] containing:
1. A cover letter/ statement of interest
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
3. Contact information for three references
On or before 4th January 2019 ONLY shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews early
January.