| Code of Conduct |
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Research Assistant Roles and Responsibilities
The Project team will provide Research Assistants with an intensive training program and ongoing development as required on an individual basis. This
training will encompass, safety, enhancing bush senses, understanding large carnivore behaviours, obtaining and recording data, tracking and camera
trapping,.
Once training is completed, Research Assistants will given weekly tasks and expected to complete these tasks with a minimum of supervision.
Tasks will include:
• Setting, servicing and retrieving Camera Traps
• Identifying and recording spoor location
• Identifying and analysing carnivore scats
• Data input and analysis
Working Hours
Research will continue on a minimum six day week basis. Long and abnormal hours may be required inclusive of night work. Most research work will be
carried out soon after dawn, late afternoon and during the night. This will leave time during the middle of the day for rest, house keeping duties, shopping etc.
It should be noted that research is not always glamorous and can be frustrating and hard work, however our work is of huge importance to the protection of
many species. There may be days when you do not see any wildlife other than camera trap pictures and tracks; however, this only heightens those times
when our work leads to exciting events. In general, you will operates outside of formally protected areas i.e. Big five game reserves and national parks.
Animals are therefore not habituated to human presence and game viewing is not as frequent as in tourism based game reserves.
Responsible behaviour
We believe that everyone is able to help make a difference towards conserving our environment. When in the bush, we operate a policy of ‘bring out what you
take in’ ie. we leave no litter or man made products behind.
Game drive vehicles should not deviate from existing roads and tracks,. When on foot, stay on the trail as deviating can cause erosion and other
environmentally harmful impacts.
Respect wildlife. Our research may bring you in close proximity to wild animals, viewing animals from a safe distance is fine, however touching, feeding, or
affecting their behaviour is not.
Do not litter. Even if you see a local person littering (and you probably will), set an example and dispose of your garbage appropriately.
Recycling facilities are extremely limited in South Africa. Avoid products with excess packaging; opt for beverages in glass bottles as they tend to be re-used.
Use only biodegradable soaps and shampoos.
One of the biggest issues in Africa is water conservation. Preservation of this most important resource is at the top of our agenda. Research Assistants are
able to contribute towards water conservation during their stay. For example taking showers not baths, conserving water from a reduction in the laundering of
towels and linens.
Each Research Assistant must recognise that their behaviour should be responsible, respectful and to the highest standards at all times. Training will cover
behaviour while in the bush, at base camp and during interaction with the local residents, media etc.
If at any time there is an aspect of the operation that you feel is unsatisfactory, please let the Project management know right away. We will do everything
possible to resolve any problems immediately.
Local Community and Purchasing goods
When purchasing food, meals, and souvenirs, we recommend that volunteers buy locally produced goods and support local artisans. In this way, you are able
to help sustain the local community, contribute towards conservation, and enrich their own lives.
Respect cultural differences. Local customs and traditions may be different from your own. Take the time to learn what behaviour is acceptable and what is
not.
Personal Development
Research Assistants are expected to maintain the highest standards at all times.
We will provide training and ongoing development, however it should be recognized that good behavior and individual development is the responsibility of
each individual. We require that each Research Assistant achieve the goals and objectives they set with a minimum of supervision. A ‘can do’ attitude is
essential.
