Rhino Research Assistant

WildComm is a dynamic conservation organisation dedicated to fostering the next generation of conservationists. Through affordable fieldwork training opportunities, we empower individuals to actively engage in impactful research and conservation initiatives, bridging knowledge gaps and cultivating a shared appreciation for the natural world. We offer the 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 always looking for hands-on and passionate assistants to join our team and support our goals.

Key activities

We currently have a limited number of positions for participants to assist on our rhino research programme. This programme, situated in the South African bushveld of northern Limpopo, focuses on studying rhino behaviour, with a special emphasis on investigating the effects of dehorning as a method to reduce the risk of poaching. Participants will work closely with experienced staff and rangers to collect valuable data on rhino behaviour through observations, GPS recordings, and other data collection methods. As a participant, you will play a pivotal role in our efforts in advancing rhino conservation efforts and ensuring a sustainable future for these magnificent creatures. Whilst on this programme, you may also get involved in a number of other activities, including giraffe identification, snare sweeps, invasive species removal, habitat surveys, litter picks and environmental education.

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 committed to the cause, willing to put in the hours, and dedicated to making a real difference. 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.

At WildComm, we pride ourselves on conducting serious and impactful research aimed at furthering conservation efforts. While we value camaraderie, social interaction, and an occasional beer under the stars, it's important to emphasize that our primary focus is on the research and conservation work at hand. If you're seeking a party atmosphere or are primarily interested in leisure activities, we encourage you to explore other opportunities that align more closely with those preferences. Our projects require dedication, focus, and a genuine passion for wildlife conservation, and we welcome participants who share these values and are committed to making a positive impact on the environment. Participants are welcome to join us for any duration but longer stays are encouraged for a more enriching experience.

Salary and costs

Our fieldwork training programmes offer invaluable exposure to a variety of research techniques, making it an integral stepping stone for your next role. As we operate without external funding, we ask each participant to contribute towards our conservation fees, which covers all training costs, volunteer expenses (in-country travel, accommodation and food) as well as enabling this vital research to proceed. Participants are responsible for arranging their own airfare, as well as obtaining medical and travel insurance.

Accommodation is on a working farm, consisting of a communal area and kitchen stocked with crockery, cutlery, fridges, freezers, a stove and drinkable tap water. Rooms are shared (2-4 people) and include linens, hot showers and flushing toilets.