Online Volunteers for Cocoa Literature Review

Job Posting Organization:
Morobe Development Foundation Inc. (MDF) is a prominent NGO established in Lae, Morobe Province, Papua New Guinea. The organization is dedicated to empowering young people by harnessing their talents through community development initiatives. MDF aims to ensure equal participation of women in decision-making processes related to various projects, including those focused on Ending Violence against Women and promoting Human Rights. The foundation collaborates with Online Volunteers and engages in scientific research related to environmental issues, showcasing its commitment to sustainable development and community welfare. MDF operates with a management committee that includes diverse members to ensure inclusive governance and decision-making.

Job Overview:
The Morobe Development Foundation is seeking motivated Online Volunteers to conduct a comprehensive literature review on the unique cocoa species found in Madang Province, Papua New Guinea. This position is focused on desk-based research, contrasting with previous studies that emphasized practical cultivation methods. The literature review aims to compile and analyze existing academic, technical, and scientific sources to build a robust knowledge base on Madang's cocoa varieties. The insights generated will inform future applied studies on sustainable cocoa production, contributing to biodiversity conservation and agricultural research. Volunteers will play a crucial role in identifying knowledge gaps and highlighting the distinct qualities of Madang's cocoa species, ultimately supporting the foundation's mission to sustain rural communities in Papua New Guinea and advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Duties and Responsibilities:
Online Volunteers will be assigned specific tasks related to the literature review, including:

• Conducting a desk-based review of the history and current practices of cocoa cultivation in Papua New Guinea, summarizing findings to provide a national context for the study of Madang’s special cocoa species.
• Identifying and analyzing existing literature on cocoa species found in Madang Province, highlighting unique or rare varieties and their characteristics, while noting research gaps.
• Compiling information on the geography and climate of Madang Province, explaining how these conditions contribute to the presence of unique cocoa varieties.
• Reviewing literature on the impact of local environmental factors, such as climate and soil composition, on cocoa growth and species characteristics in Madang.
• Conducting a comparative analysis of cocoa-growing regions to hypothesize about the types of cocoa that might be found in Madang based on literature.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates should possess strong research skills, particularly in literature review and analysis. Familiarity with agricultural sciences, biodiversity, or environmental studies is preferred. Volunteers should be detail-oriented, capable of synthesizing information from various sources, and able to communicate findings effectively. A commitment to the mission of the Morobe Development Foundation and an understanding of sustainable development principles are essential.

Educational Background:
A background in agricultural sciences, environmental studies, or a related field is preferred. Candidates should have experience in conducting literature reviews or research projects, ideally within the context of biodiversity or agricultural development.

Experience:
While specific years of experience are not mandated, candidates should demonstrate familiarity with research methodologies and literature review processes. Previous volunteer experience in similar roles or projects related to agriculture or environmental conservation is advantageous.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, as all research and reporting will be conducted in this language. Knowledge of Tok Pisin or other local languages may be beneficial but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This is a volunteer position, and the duration of the assignment is not specified. The role is remote, allowing volunteers to contribute from anywhere. The position is open to individuals internationally, and there are no specific seniority levels required. Volunteers will not receive monetary compensation but will gain valuable experience and contribute to meaningful research that supports rural communities in Papua New Guinea.