Individual-specific patterns of behaviour (personality differences) are increasingly studied in nonhuman primates, but systematic descriptions and categorisations are still lacking for many species. We seek to develop such descriptions for several simian and great ape species using non-invasive behaviour tests and observations, and sophisticated methodological and statistical approaches.
You will be based at Freie Universität Berlin, an internationally renowned network university, where you will have the opportunity to learn highly developed methodological approaches, statistics, techniques for recording and coding behaviour, and to write a PhD thesis. Work will include active engagement in an international and multidisciplinary research team including Dr. Jana Uher, Freie Universität Berlin and Dr. Elisabetta Visalberghi, CNR laboratory in Rome, Italy. Your tasks will be to develop non-invasive behavioural tests and observation schemes, to use them to collect behavioural data in captive Capuchin monkeys from collaborating research institutions in Europe, to apply psychometric statistic analyses, prepare scientific publications, and help building up an international and interdisciplinary research network.
Requirements
Excellent Diploma, Masters, or equivalent university degree in psychology. We are looking for an enthusiastic and highly motivated
research associate who is interested in differential and personality psychology, comparative psychology, behavioural sciences, and primate
research. Profound background in methods and statistics (esp. MTMM; FA, HLM), experience with or deep interest in behavioural measurement and primates; and excellent knowledge of English are required. Applicants are expected to read all information and research articles available at the project website. If shortlisted for interviews, they will be asked questions about these articles. Applicants are also expected to travel and stay abroad temporarily, be capable of independent analytical thinking, be self-organised, efficient, be responsible in their work, and engage actively in a multidisciplinary team. The working language is English; knowledge of or willingness to learn elementary Italian and German is required.
Scholarship Application Deadline: 13.02.2011
