Field assistant job studying cichlids in Lake Lake Tanganyika

http://evol.mcmaster...ldAssist.Zambia

Wanted: Field assistants for underwater observations

The Behavioural Ecology department of the University Bern, Switzerland
(chair: Prof. Michael Taborsky) provides opportunities for assistants
to participate in field work in Zambia in autumn 2012.

Project: We study cooperatively breeding, colonial cichlids in Lake
Tanganyika, including questions regarding the significance of coloniality,
the ecology of dispersal decisions of group members, and habitat-related
variation of behaviour and social structure between populations. All work
will be done using SCUBA diving down to about 12 meters depth. Detailed
behavioural observations are recorded in situ and individuals will be
caught and measured as required.

Tasks: Usually there will be 2 dives/day on 6 days /week. Applicants will
work independently after a training phase that will also include learning
about the social structure and behavioural repertoire of the fish.

Field site: We dive mainly in front of a secluded and very basic
lodge located at the lakeshore of Lake Tanganyika in the vicinity of
Mpulungu. Limited computer and internet facilities are available. Meals
will be provided at the lodge.

Requirements: Applicants must be in good health and physically fit,
as the diving is very demanding. Experience with the tropics and with
basic conditions without access to the usual amenities of modern life
would be advantageous. A PADI (or equivalent) diving certificate and
diving experience are required. Experience with behavioural observations
would be very useful.

Conditions: Travelling and accommodation costs will be covered, whereas
costs for food and personal needs are the responsibility of each team
member. Consider at least ca. 7 US$ for food expenses/day). Diving
equipment will be provided, but mask, fins, wet-suit (7mm+) need to
be brought by each team member. The exact dates of the expedition are
not yet determined, but the trip will last from late August until early
December. Applicants should be ready to briefly visit the institute in
Bern beforehand for the required training in behavioural observations.

Please send applications per e-mail attachment as a single file (.doc
or .pdf) to arne.jungwirth@iee.unibe.ch. Applications should include a
motivation statement and information about your experience with diving,
field work in general, living in the tropics, your background in biology,
and an up-to-date CV. Reference letters would be an asset.

arne.jungwirth@iee.unibe.ch