Introduction to Field Research Internship

Description:

The reserve is currently home to seven different species of lemurs in both semi-free ranging habitats and traditional captive habitats.   Please note that the Myakka City Lemur Reserve does not house education program animals and physical contact with the lemurs is not allowed.  Students will be introduced to the fundamentals of behavioral data collection in a field setting.  Topics covered include individual identification, ethogram development, sampling techniques, data entry and analysis, inter observer reliability, and research project planning, among others.  Students will collect data as part of an on-going study of lemur behavior at the Myakka City Lemur Reserve, contributing to long-term research goals.  If time permits, students will complete their own independent research project.  Students will gain skills and experience in field research methods that are applicable to a number of disciplines and interests as well as acquire training in software for data entry and analysis used by the zoo community and researchers. 

Typically, interns will work 40 hours per week and must be willing to work weekends and some holidays. The reserve is remotely located and interns must provide their own transportation to and from the nearest town, 25 miles away. A variety of culture and entertainment including state parks, art museums, zoo and botanical gardens and theaters can be found within 40 miles of the reserve.

Duration:

Credit:

Qualifications:

Applicants must be at least a sophomore in college and have successfully completed at least one biology, anthropology, psychology or similar class.  No prior field experience is needed.  Graduates of the University of Miami’s Field Training Program or the LCF’s Field Methods in Primatology are given preference.  Applicants should be able to handle the challenges of field work, including uneven terrain, flooded terrain, insect pests, and semi-tropical weather conditions; applicants must provide their own health insurance and provide proof of a negative Mantoux (Tb) test conducted no more than nine months prior to the internship starting date.

Fee:

Interns live together in a four bedroom apartment and share cooking and cleaning duties. Each bedroom is shared with one or two other students. A living arrangement such as this is conducive to open discussion and interaction among peers, and home life is often a continuation of the day in the field; therefore, it is essential that candidates can combine these two areas. A fee of $100/week is charged to assist the Lemur Conservation Foundation in the cost of housing, utilities, educational materials, and staff support.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter articulating the following:

• What do you hope to gain from this internship considering your future endeavors and career choices?
• What qualities do you possess that you feel would make you an asset to this institution?
• What life experiences have you had that you believe have prepared you for this research opportunity?
• When do you want to begin the internship?

Applicants should also send a current resume detailing education and other qualifications, including work history and any other relevant experience such as military or volunteer service and an unofficial copy of the applicant’s transcript. Two professional letters of recommendation that include a candid assessment of the candidate’s aptitude, qualifications, background, and suitability for the program are required and should be sent directly by the authors.

All application materials should be sent to:

Monica Mogilewsky
Director, Research & Operations
Lemur Conservation Foundation
PO Box 249
Myakka City, 34251. 

Alternatively, materials can be sent electronically to: manager@lemurreserve.org. 

Please use "Field Research Intern" followed by the name of the applicant as the subject line for e-mail correspondence.