Job Description Research Assistant job in Rwanda | Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund careers | Conservation jobs Africa | Wildlife research opportunities | Mountain gorilla protection Rwanda
Organization: Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International (DFGFI)
Location: Ellen DeGeneres Campus, Kinigi Sector – Musanze District,
Northern Province, Rwanda
Deadline: September 26, 2025, 5:00 PM
About the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund
The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund is one of the world’s leading organizations dedicated to protecting and conserving gorillas and their habitats across Africa. With over 50 years of experience, the Fossey Fund conducts groundbreaking scientific research, drives conservation action, and supports local communities. Our Karisoke Research Center in Rwanda and field sites in the Democratic Republic of Congo continue Dian Fossey’s legacy of safeguarding endangered gorillas.
Learn more: www.gorillafund.org
Position: Research Assistant
We are hiring a passionate and skilled Research Assistant to join our dedicated team. This role will contribute directly to the long-term monitoring of gorillas, advancing scientific knowledge, and supporting conservation strategies.
Job Purpose
As a Research Assistant, you will support data collection, analysis, and reporting on gorilla behavior, health, ecology, and conservation. This position plays a key role in strengthening our scientific research and ensuring the long-term protection of mountain gorillas.
key Responsibilities
- Collect and analyze demographic, behavioral, and ecological data.
- Supervise data collection from field trackers and technicians.
- Participate in fieldwork 3–4 days weekly and support office-based reporting 1–2 days weekly.
- Enter and manage behavioral, ecological, and conservation data.
- Contribute to scientific reports, publications, and conferences.
- Capture and manage photographs and image databases for research purposes.
- Prepare weekly and monthly research activity reports.
- Support community education and conservation awareness programs.
- Represent the Fossey Fund in scientific, governmental, and NGO meetings.
Qualifications
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Primatology, Biology, Zoology, Anthropology, or Wildlife Conservation.
- Master’s degree (preferred) in primate research, conservation biology, or a related field.
- Training in animal behavior, primate ecology, or wildlife monitoring is an added advantage.
Experience
- 1–2 years of experience in wildlife research or primate fieldwork.
- Prior work with habituated great apes (gorillas, chimpanzees) is highly desirable.
- Strong skills in data collection, behavioral observation, and ecological monitoring.
- Fieldwork experience in tropical or montane forests is an asset.
Skills & Abilities
- Proficiency in data analysis tools (R, Excel, BORIS).
- Strong knowledge of primate behavior, ecology, and conservation threats.
- Excellent teamwork, communication, and observational skills.
- Physically fit and able to work in challenging field conditions.
- Fluency in English; knowledge of French or Kinyarwanda is a strong asset.
- Commitment to conservation values and animal welfare.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit the following documents:
- Cover letter (max 1 page) highlighting motivation and suitability.
- Updated CV.
- Three references (including current employer/supervisor).
- Copies of academic certificates and relevant work documents.
- Copy of national ID.
Interested applicants should more information and apply directly through the https://www.jobinrwanda.com ,Friday, September 26, 2025, at 5:00 PM.