Orangutan Health Research Assistant

ORANGUTAN HEALTH RESEARCH ASSISTANT 山

Volunteer position application pack

We are looking for a field assistant for our Orangutan Health Project based in the Sebangau National Park, Borneo.

The Orangutan Behavioural Project started in 2003 by me, Dr. Helen Morrogh-Bernard (University of Exeter and Co-Founder and Director of Borneo Nature Foundation). In 2024 we started a new focus specifically on orangutan health.

We are looking for someone who is willing to live and work in a field Lab who can help run the project. Having experience in parasitology is key, as is familiarity with lab techniques to process urine and faecal samples. All research and analyses occurs in the field lab, just one hour from the provincial capital Palangkaraya, in Central Kalimantan, Borneo, Indonesia.

This person will make sure the research objectives are being achieved, and that data is collected and stored correctly. The applicant must adventurous, willing to learn, hardworking and be able to manage their own time. Field experience necessary.

The role involves regular orangutan follows in order to collect samples, you must be physically fit and be able to work long days in hot humid conditions. The forest is a peatswamp, walking conditions are hard, especially in the wet season when the forest is flooded. Having an awareness and acceptance of cultural differences is a essential too.

The position starts ASAP, for 1+ year and please note, there is opportunity for people to do their own research projects and a potential PhD.

How to apply

This position is a volunteer position, with no formal salary, but the following costs will be covered: international and domestic flights up to £1,200, accommodation in town and in the field, living expenses (a stipend for food when in town), travel to and from the research site, park fees, research permit and visa, a £50 contribution to personal equipment and supplies and a £250 annual contribution to your insurance costs. You will need to pay for your own basic healthcare plan and recommended vaccinations.

Applicants for this position should have a degree or other relevant field experience and be fluent in English.

Please email the following to me including a CV; a letter stating why you want the position including any relevant experience plus two references.

Deadline June 7th 2026.

Please note: exact start date depends on how long it takes to get the research permit which can vary from 2-3 months.