Bushbuck Research Assistant Volunteer

The Cape Conservation Research Centre (CCRC, https://capeconservation.co.za/) is a family run research centre based in Brenton-on-Sea, Western Cape, South Africa, offering opportunities for volunteers, students and interns. Our aim is to contribute to the conservation of the area, while also benefiting the local community. The project provides a fantastic 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 looking for hands-on and passionate assistants to join our team and support our goals.

Key activities

Discover the Enigmatic Bushbuck of Brenton-on-Sea!

Brenton-on-Sea boasts a free-roaming bushbuck population, which, despite their close interaction with the local community, remain enigmatic. We invite you to join us on an exciting journey to bridge this knowledge gap and make a positive impact on wildlife conservation.

·       Population assessments: Delve into the lives of Brenton-on-Sea's bushbuck, unravelling their population dynamics, habits, and interactions.

·       Building an ID catalogue: Embark on a mission to create a comprehensive ID catalogue, documenting each and every bushbuck in the area. By doing so, you'll contribute to our understanding of gene flow and population status.

·       Exploring infraspecific behaviour: Witness nature's wonders up close as you study the intricate behaviours that define these beautiful antelopes.

·       Addressing human-wildlife conflict: Tackle critical issues affecting both the bushbuck and the local community. Together, we can find sustainable solutions.

·       Hands-on conservation: Make a real difference in preserving the bushbuck population by participating in snare removal activities. Help protect not only the bushbuck but also other wildlife in the area.

This is more than just a project; it's a journey. Join our dedicated team of volunteers in conducting transects, recording observations, and contributing to the long-term well-being of these magnificent creatures.

While our primary focus is on the bushbuck project, you'll have the chance to broaden your horizons. Get involved in bird point counts, beach clean-ups, environmental education initiatives, and even discover your creative side in pottery workshops. Don't miss this unique opportunity to be part of a transformative conservation effort. Brenton-on-Sea and its bushbuck population are waiting to share their stories with you. Join us in making a real impact on the environment and the community.

What we are looking for

Everyone at the research centre 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 passionate about people and the environment. 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.

Salary and costs

This is a volunteer role so no salary is provided, however you will be exposed to a range of research techniques and therefore this could be an integral stepping stone to your next role.

You will need to cover your own accommodation and food costs at the research centre. Accommodation costs are currently ZAR8,000 a month. All research and creative equipment is provided. Volunteers are responsible for their own airfare and travel to the centre and medical/travel insurance.  

Just 400m from the beach, the research camp consists of a lounge, dining room, braai area and communal kitchen stocked with crockery, cutlery, fridges, freezers, a stove and microwave and drinkable tap water. Rooms are shared (2-4 people) and include linens, hot showers and flushing toilets.

How to apply

Volunteer assistants are required immediately, and positions are ongoing. To apply for a position or for further details please contact Dr Leah Findlay at applications@capeconservation.co.za. Please include a brief description of why you are interested in working with us, your relevant experience or transferable skills, and what you think you can bring to the research centre. Please also state where you saw this advert. Students wanting to conduct a research project should also include a CV and contact details for two referees. Applications will be accepted until positions are filled.