Veterinary Health Officer

The Jane Goodall Institute Tanzania (JGI-TZ) is a registered Non-Governmental Organization committed to Wildlife Research, Education and Conservation of biodiversity. JGI-TZ in collaboration with Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA) are seeking applicants for the position of Veterinary Health Officer to fulfil a two-year contract position, based in Gombe National Park, Kigoma and sponsored by JGI-TZ. The position is renewable pending job performance.

Duties and Responsibilities

The primary focus of the Veterinary Health Officer will be health-monitoring of non-human primates, focusing on chimpanzees, and employee health program for JGI-TZ Field staff. The candidate will be responsible for both research and clinical duties and other responsibilities:

• Research duties include supervision and direction of non-invasive, observational health assessment and monitoring programs of chimpanzees and other primates, including collection of data and training of field assistants, sample collection and organization and monitoring of project supply inventory.
  
• Clinical duties include in-depth clinical observations for health monitoring, maintenance of individual animal health records, processing of faecal samples for hormone analysis, assisting with immobilization when necessary and permitted by governing authorities, interpretation of diagnostic information and formulation of treatment options, as well as performing necropsies on wildlife in the park.
  
• Additional responsibilities include consulting on biosecurity and preventive health protocols and assisting JGI and TANAPA with other health-related matters when needed; other duties may be assigned.
  
• The successful candidate will work closely with JGI research and TANAPA management staffs as well as collaborating investigators.

• She/he will keep and maintain a high standard of paper and electronic medical records on all of the above, and will work closely with an ongoing non-invasive health monitoring project.
  
• Monthly written reports on project progress are required as well as detailed reports on individual chimpanzee health issues and illnesses. Therefore, good communication skills are an essential part of the job. Must be willing and able to spend a minimum of 10 hours per week in the field in rugged physical conditions observing chimpanzees.
  Minimum Qualifications:

The candidate must possess a veterinary medical degree from a recognized University and be licensed to work in Tanzania. Candidates with a minimum of two year experience in practicing clinical veterinary medicine, or experience with public health or wildlife health or a combination of both will be highly considered. Coursework in epidemiology and experience with non-human primates is added value. Proven ability as a team worker and knowledge in both Kiswahili and English are essential. Knowledge in standard computer applications, such as Microsoft Word and Excel, and ability to enter data into a web-based database, is required. Must be able to work in challenging fieldwork conditions that require physical exertion.

How to apply

All those who meet the above requirements and would like to apply for this position should send application letter together with most recently CV, copies of academic certificates and testimonials, three names of referees with their contacts, to the under mentioned address not later than July 15^th 2015.

Dr Deus Mjungu

The Director of Research,

Gombe Stream Research Centre,

Box 1182, Kigoma, Tanzania.

dmjungu@janegoodall.or.tz

Only shortlisted will be contacted for interview