Research Assistant Position - Gabon, Africa

We are looking for an enthusiastic, motivated candidate for a one-year position 
working as a 
field-based research assistant in Gabon, starting around June 1, 2015!

The research project focuses on the impacts of anthropogenic activities on 
tropical forests, 
animal communities and ecological processes in the Central African rainforest. 
Fieldwork is 
diverse and consists of conducting animal surveys and collecting data on tree 
phenology, forest 
dynamics, seed dispersal and seedling recruitment.

Successful candidates must thrive in a small team setting, working well with 
both Gabonese and 
American technicians and guides. Work typically begins at first light (6 am) 
and can consist of 
hiking more than 10 km in hilly and swampy terrain in hot, muggy and buggy 
conditions. Field 
assistants live out of a tent two weeks each month. The field station is rustic 
with only 
intermittent access to internet and telephone.

While working in this challenging environment, successful candidates will be 
rewarded with the 
opportunity to observe tropical bird and animal species in their natural 
habitats. Candidates will 
undoubtedly learn a great deal about tropical ecology, natural history, 
conservation biology, and 
the impacts of land use on forest structure and composition in near-pristine 
and degraded 
landscapes, as well as what it takes to organize projects in Central Africa.

Preference will be given to candidates with previous field research experience. 
Experience in 
French is strongly recommended.

Field assistants must pay their travel to Gabon, but will be provided with room 
and board at the 
Ipassa Research Station.

Interested persons should send: 1) a CV, 2) a cover letter describing 
motivation and 
qualifications for position, and 3) the names and contact information of three 
professional 
references. Please send application materials in pdf form to 
john.poul...@duke.edu with the 
subject line “(candidate's last name)-Ipassa Field Position.” Ex: Smith-Ipassa 
Field Position. 
Applications will be accepted until May. 1, 2015.

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