Giraffe Guardians: Fieldwork Training Programme Dive into the heart of giraffe conservation with WildComm's Giraffe Guardians programme, where participants contribute to the understanding of giraffe populations and their conservation needs through data collection and research efforts. WildComm (www.wildcomm.org) is a dynamic conservation organisation dedicated to fostering the next generation of conservationists. Through affordable fieldwork training opportunities, we empower individuals to actively engage in impactful research and conservation initiatives, bridging knowledge gaps and cultivating a shared appreciation for the natural world. We offer the opportunity to develop a range of skills, which is a perfect steppingstone for your future career in conservation, or simply to take time out whilst also giving back. We are always looking for hands-on and passionate assistants to join our team and support our goals. Key activities We currently have a limited number of positions for participants to train and assist on our research programme studying the conservation value of privately owned giraffe. Based within the Limpopo Province, South Africa, participants will develop essential fieldwork skills and gain practical experience in wildlife conservation. You will receive expert training and guidance from experienced staff, ensuring you are well-equipped to collect behavioural data and conduct regular population counts on giraffe, making meaningful contributions to giraffe research and conservation initiatives. Whilst on this programme, you will also have the opportunity to get involved in a number of other activities, including rhino behavioural data collection, snare sweeps, invasive species removal, habitat surveys, litter picks and environmental education. What we are looking for Everyone at WildComm is passionate about the work they do, so we are looking for someone who is excited to make an active contribution to the project. We are open to your background, what is important is that you are committed to the cause, willing to put in the hours, and dedicated to making a real difference. There are a few qualities that make you more relevant for the programme: prior experience with the project's field techniques or working in a southern African environment; being reliable, responsible and motivated to work hard; enjoy working as part of a team and be happy to operate under the authority of field research coordinators, whilst being competent working unsupervised; happy to work long and unsociable hours. Some activities involve long days of walking in hot and cold weather, so if you are applying for these activities, you must be prepared and able to cope with such conditions. At WildComm, we pride ourselves on conducting serious and impactful research aimed at furthering conservation efforts. While we value camaraderie, social interaction, and an occasional beer under the stars, it's important to emphasize that our primary focus is on the research and conservation work at hand. If you're seeking a party atmosphere or are primarily interested in leisure activities, we encourage you to explore other opportunities that align more closely with those preferences. Our projects require dedication, focus, and a genuine passion for wildlife conservation, and we welcome participants who share these values and are committed to making a positive impact on the environment. Participants are welcome to join us for any duration, but longer stays are encouraged for a more enriching experience. Costs Our fieldwork training programmes offer invaluable exposure to a variety of research techniques, making it an integral stepping stone for your next role. As we operate without external funding, participant fees not only cover their own expenses but also enable this vital research to proceed. Fees cover all training and research equipment, accommodation, and in-country transport. Fees do not cover food and participants are responsible for arranging their own airfare, as well as obtaining medical and travel insurance. Current fees are 1,000 per month. For stays of 3 months or longer, fees can be negotiated. Accommodation is on a working farm, consisting of a communal area and kitchen stocked with crockery, cutlery, fridges, freezers, a stove and drinkable tap water. Rooms are shared (2-4 people) and include linens, hot showers and flushing toilets. How to apply Immediate positions are available with ongoing opportunities. To apply or for further information, please contact applications@wildcomm.org. When applying, kindly include your CV along with a brief statement outlining your interest in joining our team, relevant experience or transferable skills, and how you envision contributing to our research programmes. PLEASE ALSO STATE WHERE YOU SAW THIS ADVERT. Applications will be accepted until all positions are filled. Embark on an unforgettable journey with WildComm's Giraffe Guardians programme, where participants have the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the stunning landscapes of the Limpopo Province, South Africa, while actively contributing to vital giraffe conservation efforts through hands-on fieldwork and research activities. Kind regards, Leah Leah Findlay (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca)