Job: Full time Research Assistant, project on stray dogs: 1-year (by 7th August 2016)

Full-time Research Assistant required for research on stray dogs

The successful applicant will contribute to research on the ranging behaviour and population demographics (i.e., carrying capacity, size and distribution, growth rate, age structure and social organisation) of stray dogs in Singapore. Data collected by this project will be used to develop improved strategies and assessment tools for the management of stray dog populations. The data will also be used to develop a simulation model for the spread of rabies should the disease be found in the stray dog population in Singapore, and to predict the best approach for its eradication.

This is a full-time (1 year) position with a possible extension. The candidate will be working with researchers and staff from the University of Queensland (UQ) and National University of Singapore (NUS).

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Assisting research on stray dog ecology and the effectiveness of control measures in Singapore by: point counts of stray dogs at determined sites;
• identification of individual dogs by physical characteristics and photograph libraries;
• application and monitoring of satellite GPS tracking collars; and other methods
• Maintain clear and accurate records of work performed and data collected
• Interact with members of the public and animal welfare groups to facilitate data collection and application of tracking collars.

Requirements of applicant:

• Applicants should have a BSc in ecology or a relevant field,
• be familiar with dogs and dog behaviour,
• and show interest in the ecology and management of vertebrate species.
• Must enjoy working outdoors,
• be flexible with working hours due to dog activity patterns,
• and have excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• A Class 3A driver’s license, computer literacy and high competence with Microsoft Excel are required.

Interested individuals should submit their CVs with their relevant software knowledge and research experience to m.rusli@uq.edu.au. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for interviews. The closing date for this application is 7 August 2016.

Mark Rusli
Research Officer
School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, UQ
m.rusli@uq.edu.au