Volunteer Research Assistant

The Talarak Foundation Inc. is a Philippine wildlife conservation NGO dedicated to the preservation and restoration of endemic wildlife to the West Visayan islands of Negros and Panay. At Talarak, we see conservation as the preservation of captive animals, restoration of wild habitats and animal populations, and working with rural communities to bring harmony between people and the environment. This includes many roles in scientific research, operations and management of conservation activities, and capacity building for everyone who can play a part in the conservation of their environment and natural habitats.

This volunteer position is for the Bayawan Nature Reserve, in Bayawan City, Negros Oriental, Philippines. The Bayawan Nature Reserve is a 300Ha forest reserve, managed by the Talarak Foundation as a site for reforestation, wildlife refuge, and release of captive-bred endemic species. These species include the Visayan warty pig (Sus cebifrons), Visayan spotted deer (Rusa alfredi), Visayan hornbill (Penelopides panini), Negros bleeding heart dove (Gallicolumba keayi), among others. The Bayawan Nature Reserve is also the hub of a social outreach and sustainable livelihood initiative to improve environmental protection with sustainable land use and reduction of poverty in human communities around the area.

During your stay, you will be living in a dormitory-style accommodation with a shared workspace, bathroom, and kitchen. You will be living in close quarters with between 4-9 people and you are expected to follow house rules and respect fellow team members. The reserve buildings are off-grid, with limited cellular signal and rely on solar electricity and gravity-fed water systems. Whilst there is internet (via Starlink) and electricity to supply refrigeration and lighting, this resource is dependent on the weather and power conservation is required. The work requires long hours in a tropical forest, usually in hot and humid conditions leading to early start times. The terrain and structure of the reserve lead to this being a role best suited to someone physically fit, and able to climb slopes and hills with uneven footing. Volunteers will be allowed 1 day off per week (usually Sundays) and a 1 week break for holiday time during a 3 month stay. 

We are looking to fill 2 volunteer positions starting January/February 2025.

Field Assistant Role Description:

• Monitoring released animals using VHF telemetry (dependent on species being tracked during your stay)
• Recording observed behaviours and movements in a data collection app
• Recording locations of telemetered animals and noteworthy observations in a handheld Garmin GPS device
• Setting and removing camera traps within the reserve for population and behaviour monitoring
• Reviewing and recording data from camera traps into a data collection software
• Trail construction and maintenance
• Recording habitat variables from specified plots using a data collection app
• Creating movement maps using QGIS and reporting on animal activity in regular meetings
• Engaging with local community members to encourage conservation
• Building the capacity of the local community and students to conduct conservation science
• Assist in conducting education presentations and tour guiding with schools, local communities, and reserve visitors

* Role and activities will depend on the availability at time of volunteering.

Minimum requirements:

• Applicants must be at least 21 years old but we can make exceptions based on experience/skills
• Applicants should have an undergraduate degree in biology, conservation, ecology, wildlife management or other related fields with an interest in pursuing a career in conservation (educational background can be superseded with exceptional experience)
• Fluent in English (written and spoken)
• Must be physically fit and have a positive attitude due to the extreme climate conditions (any persons with asthma, heart conditions, breathing or lung difficulties, or joint and mobility issues, will find it very difficult to adapt to the area)
• Ability to be flexible and adapt to inconsistent working environment
• Ability to get along with others in a communal setting
• Openness to other cultures and a respect for their traditions, customs, and beliefs
• A minimum duration of 3 months is required, extensions to this can be given if both parties feel it is beneficial
• Health insurance and needed vaccinations are covered and completed prior to start

Preferred requirements:

• Fluent in bisaya and/or tagalog
• Prior experience living in and/or working in a tropical country
• 6+ months prior experience in field conservation or community work
• Ability to drive motorbikes

This is an unpaid position but accommodation at the site is provided for free for foreign and Filipino volunteers. Foreign volunteers are required to cover some food costs with a donation of 1000 PHP per week (Approx. 16 EUR / 13 GBP). All volunteers will be expected to arrange their travel to and from Bayawan City, Negros Oriental, and cover any visa costs or medical expenses. 

Visit www.talarak.org to learn more about what we do.