Database and Research App Developer - Franklinia Project

Type: 
Paid
Closing date: 
07 Oct 2022
Section: 
Mahe

Terms of Reference

Creation of coco de mer database and programming of CyberTracker phone application assisting digital field recording

Background

The project titled: “Increasing the resilience of Seychelles’ flagship tree species coco de mer (Lodoicea maldivica)” is a project funded by the Franklinia Foundation with the main objective being the support of long-term management and conservation of the coco de mer. Some of the activities under this objective are the 1) development of web-based coco de mer database and inputting available data sets; and 2) programming phone application assisting digital field recording.

The coco de mer (Lodoicea maldivica) is categorised as Endangered on the IUCN Red List and is endemic to two Seychelles islands (Praslin and Curieuse). The total population consists of ca. 8200 individuals, across three subpopulations, covering a total area of <20 km2 . As of 2020, more than 80% of the coco de mer adult population is managed by SIF. The population size is estimated to have declined by 30% over three generations and the population is still decreasing. A worst-case scenario of a further 30% decline over the next century is projected if threats are not mitigated. Existing and emerging threats to the species are forest fires, illegal harvesting, invasive alien species, and severe climate change impacts.

The coco de mer, as a keystone species and ecological driver of the palm forest ecosystem, is fundamental to the Outstanding Universal Value of the Vallée de Mai. As such, our long-term vision is to halt and, if possible, reverse the decline of the coco de mer, while implementing scientific excellence for conservation assessments and management, and boosting the resilience of the species.

Expected outcomes

  1. Improved coordination and accessibility of coco de mer datasets under SIF management
  2. Input of modernized, collated, and clean long-term coco de mer datasets onto completed database
  3. Easily accessible online database programmed for improved analysis and reporting
  4. Efficient, easy to use phone application to reduce data and human errors hence enhancing information accuracy and time efficiency
  5. Increased understanding of coco de mer conservation efforts
  6. Improved use of resources for coco de mer conservation

Specific Role

  1. Development of web-based coco de mer database and inputting available data sets
  2. Customise relevant features of the database to ensure maximum efficiency, use of data and integrate relevant data analysis within the database software for monitoring and reporting purposes
  3. Programming phone application through the CyberTracker software assisting digital field recording for coco de mer data capture
  4. Advise on storage pathway(s) for the data recorded in the phone application
  5. Test, refine and launch the database and phone application, upon consultation of stakeholders

Project deliverables

  1. Monthly updates to SIF
  2. Draft database for trial and review (end of month 4)
  3. Draft phone application for trial and review including thoroughly documented programming steps (end of month 4)
  4. Completed database and phone application ready for use (end of month 5)
  5. Final project report, including details of database and phone application, and upkeep plan (end of month 6)

Required qualifications and skills of candidate

  1. Strong IT skills (essential) and website/app design (essential)
  2. Strong communication skills via email/skype (essential) and presentations/webinars(desirable)
  3. Experience with the CyberTracker software (essential)
  4. Local knowledge of Seychelles (essential)
  5. Excellent coordination and organisation skills and able to work to a deadline.

Contractual arrangements

The service will be overseen by SIF’s Project Officer who will provide ongoing feedback throughout the project. The Head Office Project Officer will ensure that the above outputs are met in the agreed timeframe. SIF shall provide necessary support to the consultant in order to execute the assignment through the duration of the project.

Application procedure

Applicants are required to submit the following documents to Cheyenne Chang-Yunn (info@sif.sc) on or before 7th October 2022 along with the following:

  1. A technical proposal: Letter of interest, stating why you consider your service suitable for the assignment and a brief methodology on the approach and implementation of the assignment
  2. Personal CVs of technical personnel proposed for this project highlight qualifications and experience based on the skill requirements above
  3. Work references