Conservation Research Volunteer Opportunity - 2014
Uganda Rothschild’s Giraffe Project
Have you ever wanted to work with the world’s tallest and one of the most endangered mammal? Have you dreamt about living and working in one of world’s most amazing wildlife areas? Do you have passion for and field experience in wildlife conservation? Are you an independent individual, a self-starter and do you have drive to make a difference? Are you available for about 6 months in 2014? If all of this sounds good to you, please read on...
Project Overview
GCF is working collaboratively with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC) to better understand the population status and ecology of the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis rothschildi) in Uganda. With limited previous research of giraffe throughout the continent, and no research at all in Uganda, this project focuses on improving our understanding of this endangered (sub)species’ conservation, establishing a baseline for long- term conservation management, informing a comprehensive management approach by UWA as well as educating local Ugandans on the importance of Rothschild’s giraffe and their conservation.
To date no rigorous country-wide assessment of giraffe numbers, status and distribution in Uganda has ever been undertaken, let alone a continental-wide effort. This project is the first ever conservation effort on Rothschild’s ecology and behaviour in Uganda and key to contributing scientific knowledge and conservation management input into this under-studied but disappearing megaherbivore.
Conservation Significance
This collaborative project is the first giraffe conservation monitoring programme in Uganda, collecting information for the long-term survival of Rothschild’s giraffe. The partnership with UWEC will help to increased education and awareness to Ugandans through the existing school and community outreach initiatives, which will use new information obtained during this project.
The project will help to secure and potentially enhance the range of the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe in Uganda over the next five years (Phase 1). Future goals will be aligned with the proposed National Giraffe Conservation Strategy in Uganda, which will also be developed during Phase 1 together with UWA, UWEC and other key stakeholders.
Location
Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda
Conservation Research Volunteer Role
The Conservation Research Volunteer will undertake independent on-ground conservation data collection on the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe including population dynamics, developing individual giraffe identification sheets and threat impacts (snaring, mining, fire). S/he will provide support to UWA and UWEC field activities, as appropriate, and work in close collaboration with a range of people in the field for at least part of the time, i.e. a Ugandan researchers, UWA staff; GCF researchers, funders and supporters.
Project Reporting
Monthly reports including data spread sheets on population dynamics and threats, as well as giraffe ID sheets.
Reporting Line
Reporting will be directly to the Conservation Scientist of the Giraffe Conservation Foundation (GCF)
Project Period
Approx. 6 months (March – September 2014)
Position Requirements
The individual must be a self-starter, flexible and able to work independently, but also as part of a small team and/or collaboratively with project partners. Ideally the individual will have a degree and experience in wildlife conservation field research and/or monitoring, experience driving a 4x4 vehicle, and is not afraid of working remotely and often alone in the African bush. Basic computer skills are a must, higher skills and GIS mapping would be an advantage.
GCF Project Contribution
•Project vehicle and running expenses (for field work only)
•Stipend for accommodation, basic living expenses and communications
•Field research equipment (laptop computer, camera, GPS)
•No volunteer bench fees
Volunteer Own Contribution
•Own transport to and from Uganda
•Own visa costs
•Own travel and health insurance
•Own vaccinations
•Own personal expenses (drinks, toiletries, etc.) and any additional costs
How to Apply
Interested volunteers should send a CV/Resume, comprehensive application letter and contact details of three referees to volunteer@giraffeconservation.org by Sunday, 10 February 2014.
In your application letter please specifically highlight your field experience, outline why you would be suitable for this role, and anything differentiating you from all other candidates in as to why we should choose you.
For further information or specific questions, please contact us at the above email address.
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