Large Marine Vertebrates Research Institute Philippines

Position title: Cebu Whale Shark and Turtle Research and Conservation Project Research Assistant
Position type: Voluntary
Organisation: Large Marine Vertebrates Research Institute Philippines (LAMAVE)
Research Site: Cebu, Philippines
Position period: Minimum commitment of 9 months
Starting Date No later than 15 December 2019
Website: www.lamave.org
Facebook: www.facebook.com/lamaveproject
Applicants should send application by email to:
To: volunteer@lamave.org, t.legaspi@lamave.org
Subject Line: Research Assistant Cebu Project

Position

DESCRIPTION:

We are looking for a Research Assistant to join our team in Cebu studying whale shark and turtle ecology. The
research assistant will provide support to the project leader and will assist with project management, data
collection, organization and validation of all data collected. The research assistant would be required to assist
the project leader in handling the volunteers’ welfare as the project heavily relies on the work of the volunteers.
We are looking for someone who is excellent in group dynamics and has good communication skills. This
position is ideal for someone who is looking for opportunities to gain experience in marine conservation field
work, data collection, and project management, and to establish a network in the marine conservation field.

ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Supporting the project leader to ensure data is collected and organised to a high standard on a daily basis;
• Daily data entry is being completed thoroughly;
• Assisting with data validation as required by the project leader;
• Collecting daily field data including environmental and in-water whale shark and turtle
photo identification sessions while being a friendly reminder to volunteers for their data
collection;
• Ensuring volunteers show professionalism in the workplace and in the community;
• Supporting and assisting with training where necessary which includes providing tips for
in water sessions and land tasks;
• Contributing to volunteer orientations such as whale shark and turtle biology and ecology,
site orientation, tour of the town and general day to day living;
• Ensuring the volunteer workload is balanced while providing the opportunity for
volunteers to learn and take on responsibilities;
• Assisting with managing the volunteer house which includes cleaning, cooking, and
encouraging others to do the same.
 Large Marine Vertebrates Research Institute Philippines
REQUIREMENTS

• Preferably a degree in marine sciences, biology, or relevant field and/or relevant experience (e.g. Working
with other conservation NGOs);
• Strong passion for marine conservation;
• Highly organized;
• Priority will be given to candidates with past project management experience;
• Ability to work well in a team with excellent communication skills;
• Previous volunteering experience within a diverse team or a similar working environment
is an advantage;
• Ability to work long hours when necessary to ensure quality of work is high;
• 25 years or age;
• Minimum commitment of 9 months.

ADDITIONAL NOTES
What’s in it for you?

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who wishes to gain experience in marine science, conservation or
working with an NGO. This position will provide you with the opportunity to improve many important skills
which are considered an asset when conducting research and working in the environmental field. These skills
include project management, planning and organizing and in-water data collection. Once settled into the role
and if time permits, there may be a potential to contribute to further research. You will work with a diverse
team of scientists, educators, filmmakers and professionals from various fields from across the world all of
which aspire to make a positive conservation contribution through scientific research and education. This
includes other LAMAVE staff members, local and international people. You will also have the opportunity to live
on an incredible island in the Philippines with excellent opportunities for diving, snorkeling and general
adventuring!

WHAT’S PROVIDED?

This is a voluntary role and no salary is offered. LAMAVE will provide accommodation in a shared volunteer
house, food, training in whale shark and turtle research methods, project t-shirts, and other project-associated
costs. You are responsible for covering you own flights/transport to the site, tourist visa (if applicable), and any
additional personal expenditure (e.g. Days off, snacks, beverages, etc).

TO APPLY:
Please submit CV and cover letter by email to volunteer@lamave.org and t.legaspi@lamave.org with subject
heading: Research Assistant Cebu Project.