Lilongwe Wildlife Trust
The Research Coordinator is responsible for developing and managing all LWT research programs. This will include developing “off the shelf” research projects for our placement enquiries as well as working with our Head of Placements to build up individual projects based on an individual’s requirements. Once the students are in country the role will also involve assisting and managing the placements and ensuring that the students both have the support required to undertake their research, but also that their research protocols are effective. It is also an important part of the role to develop relationships with universities and other higher learning facilities to increase the flow of potential applicants into the programme.
This position is both office (40%) and field (60%) based. The person in this role will work closely with numerous departments, including Programs, Accounts, Operations, Rescue and Rehabilitation, and Communications.
LWT’s Research Program has field-based projects in Vwaza Marsh Wildlife Reserve (VMWR), Nyika National Park (NNP), and Kuti Wildlife Reserve, as well as captive based studies at the LWC. Our recent projects include; 1) Samango monkey census and genetics project and 2) Primate release project, and 3) LWT’s Elephants for Landscapes project which aims to assess the long term status, ecology and spatial behaviour of elephants in Northern Malawi.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Research
- Develop research projects, including identifying areas of need and interest, writing proposals, developing research protocols
- Develop and manage the research volunteer program
- Develop and manage student research projects
- Ensure data is collected, input, and stored accurately
- Ensure data is accurately formatted and organized for analysis
- Data analysis
- Present research at local and international conferences (Where applicable)
- Prepare data and write up for publication
- Create GIS maps of study areas and activities
- Develop and lead field courses
Operations and Logistics
- Liase with the Operations Department to manage vehicle upkeep, maintenance, movements and tracking
- Management of all project equipment
Staff and People Management
- Health and safety reviews and oversight of all LWT research sites
- Develop relationships with universities and other higher learning institutions
- Supervise undergraduate and post-graduate student projects
Reporting and Budgeting
- Develop annual budgets for proposed research budgets
- Assist in the production of all project budgets, including budget development, cash reconciliation, and requests.
- Manage grant funds, including reporting
- Manage and report monthly research targets and activities
- Contribute to monthly, quarterly, and yearly organizational reports
Education and/or Work Experience Requirements:
Essential
- MSc (or equivalent) or higher in related field
- Great interpersonal skills
- Extensive field research experience
- Strong background in research project development
- Project management skills
- Budget management skills
- Experience living and working in a developing country, preferably in Africa
- Physically fit
- Clean driving and criminal record
- Be a team player
- Willing to put in extra hours where and when necessary
Preferred
- PhD in related field
- Peer-reviewed scientific article publication(s)
- Vehicle mechanics knowledge
- Experience with wildlife rescue and rehabilitation
Remuneration Package:
- US$1,000 / month stipend
- Permanent shared housing in Lilongwe
- Accommodation at the field site is provided in the form of a safari tent when needed
- In-country project-related travel covered
- Local health insurance covered (international health insurance that covers medical evacuation/expatriation is required and the responsibility of the research manager)
- One return flight home per 12-month period (annual leave)
- 12-month contract
How to Apply:
Please send a CV and Letter of Interest to applications@lilongwewildlife.org. Please include the title of the position in the subject line of the email. Applications will be accepted until position is filled. Please note that applicants not meeting the required criteria will not receive a reply.