Southasia Institute of Advanced Studies (SIAS) is a Kathmandu-based research institute. SIAS aims to utilize its research to create state-of-the-art knowledge on environmental, socio-economic and political issues in the South Asian region to understand and influence policy challenges and sustainable development. For more details, please visit https://sias-southasia.org .
SIAS invites applications from highly motivated, proactive and committed candidates for the position of Research Intern – to conduct review on changing forest and wildlife ecology in relation to growing human and wildlife conflict in farming landscape in the mid-hills of Nepal. The purpose of this position is to carry out a desk review and some field study on the above-mentioned topic.
Major Responsibilities
- Review, literature (published and unpublished materials) on changing ecology of monkeys (and some other herbivore) and its key predator, leopard (and others) in the mid-hill region of Nepal.
- Engage with the research team to carry out some participatory assessment of changing forest ecology and relations with change in ecological dynamics of above-mentioned wild animals.
- Prepare comprehensive field notes and transcribe the recordings.
- Contribute to analysis and write-up from field data.
- Contribute to gather reports, media materials, blogs, and other publications.
- Carry out other tasks assigned by the supervisor.
Duration and duty station
It is a Kathmandu-based position and requires frequent field visits. This position is until December 2025 (Including one month’s probationary period) with the possibility of an extension with promotion based on performance, requirements of SIAS, and availability of funds.
Qualifications and skills
- Master’s degree in wildlife biology/ecology, conservation biology/ecology, zoology, human – wildlife conflict or any other relevant field with area of interests in wildlife, conservation, ecology, or forest changes in relation to socio-economic dynamics (and farming practices), etc.
- Some prior experience in field research, particularly using participatory tools and ecological study.
- Good written and oral communication skills in English and Nepali.
- Ability to deliver assigned tasks with supervision, including strong time management, computer, and communication skills.
Note: if someone wants to carry out master thesis on this topic, we will encourage that as well.
Salary/Benefits
This is a paid position. Salary and other benefits will be based on the candidate’s demonstrated competency during the selection process.
To apply
To apply for this position, please e-mail your updated CV and a cover letter outlining your (a) capacity, (b) reasons for applying for this job, and (c) expected salary by 4th July 2025 to career@sias-southasia.org by mentioning ‘Research Intern – Ecology and wildlife dynamics’ in the subject line.
We are an equal-opportunity employer and maintain workforce diversity. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted for written assessments and interviews. Telephone inquiries will not be entertained and may lead to the disqualification of the candidate.