Social and Ecological Impacts of MPAs

There exists a critical need to understand why some MPAs provide both biodiversity and social benefits and others do not. We are addressing this need in multiple ways, ranging from the general to the specific, and more than one internship might be available. Our goal is an enhanced understanding of the link between MPA governance and performance.

A specific project is an interdisciplinary analysis of data from Mozambiquen MPAs. We are working with WWF-Mozambique to consolidate and synthesize ecological and social data for this understudied region. This internship will involve analyzing and evaluating ecological, fisheries, and social data using a mix of qualitative and quantitative methods to identify links between MPA governance structure, human behavior, ecological performance, and social outcomes (especially poverty impacts).

The project will include drawing upon published literature, unpublished reports, and raw data from the field and will result in a peer-reviewed manuscript and internal spin-off products. Requirements: Degree in natural or social science; familiarity with MPAs. Statistics and program evaluation experience/expertise and foreign language competency

(Portuguese) preferred.

Stipend: Modest stipend possible.

Due date for CV and cover letter: April 1, 2008

Contact: Helen Fox (Helen.Fox@wwfus.org)