Conservation Research Assistant

As a Conservation Research Assistant (RA) with SEED Madagascar, you will play a crucial role in supporting conservation research efforts in the unique ecosystems of southeast Madagascar. Working from the base in Sainte Luce, you will oversee the management and support of volunteers while participating in various research tasks and data collection across conservation projects. You will work closely with Senior Research Assistants to ensure smooth field operations and contribute to the success of conservation initiatives. Key responsibilities include leading data collection in the field, organizing and backing up research data, setting research objectives, and supporting initiatives focused on lemurs, reptiles, amphibians, flora, and emerging projects. You will also coordinate logistics for international volunteers, provide training on research techniques, and ensure adherence to SEED’s health, safety, and ethical standards. Additionally, you will facilitate communication between the research team, SEED staff, and local guides, and assist in managing the research camp to ensure smooth operations.

Bachelor’s degree in a conservation-related field; at least one year of practical experience in field-based research; previous experience with data collection and cleaning; knowledge of primatology, herpetology, ornithology, and/or botany is desirable; experience collecting data using GPS devices and mobile data collection apps (e.g., KOBO, Epicollect, ODK); experience working with volunteers or providing pastoral care; current First Aid certificate; understanding of and commitment to SEED Madagascar’s ethos and approach; ability to work with teams from diverse economic and cultural backgrounds across language barriers.