The Department of Primatology at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology is looking for a data coordinator to join the A.P.E.S. project. The A.P.E.S. (Ape Populations, Environments and Surveys) database is a joint project of IUCN/SSC Primate Specialist Group and the Department of Primatology at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology. The aim of this project is to compile and meta-analyze ape survey information to provide an accurate and objective global picture of the distribution and status of great apes, and thus inform long-term management and conservation strategies for these taxa. For more information on this project, please visit http://apes.eva.mpg.de.
The position to be filled comprises a variety of tasks, including the formatting of ape survey datasets and uploading of these data into the database, as well as the compilation of additional information relevant to ape surveys (e.g. human threats). Furthermore, the work includes the processing of survey information, such as generating and updating GIS layers related to survey data availability, population status, threats and conservation opportunities. Also, producing regular updates of site and country level ape population status information will be required (see http://apes.eva.mpg.de/apeswiki/index.php/Main_Page).
The candidate will work closely with other members of the A.P.E.S. team, comprising assistants, PhD students, IT staff, database manager, IUCN/SSC Primate Specialist Group, as well as other international institutions we are collaborating with to further develop this project. Therefore, this person should possess good communication and organizational skills, as well as an excellent ability to disseminate technical and non-technical information to a wider audience. Fluent English and French is a prerequisite.
The candidate should have extensive experience with data processing programs (such as Excel), GIS and remote sensing software (e.g. ArcGIS, Idrisi, ENVI), and good statistical knowledge and analytical skills (e.g. R). Ideally, the candidate will also have experience with databases, such as PostgreSQL, or is willing to acquire the necessary skills.
The department of Primatology offers a stimulating and international working environment, and encourages the successful candidate to develop ideas to make the best possible use of this unique resource. The position is funded for two years, and depending on the availability of future funding, an extension is possible/expected. Applications will be considered until a suitable applicant has been selected, however, a starting date of August 2010 or soon thereafter is preferred. In a cover letter applicants should describe their scientific and quantitative background, technical expertise, and give a brief statement of their research interests and past experience.
For more info, contact:
Please submit the cover letter, a curriculum vitae and contact information for two references via email to Hjalmar Kuehl, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Department of Primatology, Leipzig, Germany. Email: kompo@eva.mpg.de