Position: Intern – Research on Brucellosis in Sheep
Project: Climate Change Mitigation Initiative (CCMI)
Reporting to: Program Manager – Livestock
Location: CCMI Project Areas – Annamayya and Sri Sathya Sai Districts, Andhra Pradesh, India
Engagement Type: Full-time Internship (3 months)
1. Background
Vijayavahini Charitable Foundation (VCF), supported by Tata Trusts, is implementing the Climate Change Mitigation Initiative (CCMI) Project in Annamayya and Sri Sathya Sai districts of Andhra Pradesh. The project aims to strengthen climate-resilient small ruminant production systems by improving the productivity and health management of the Nellore sheep breed, which is economically important to shepherd communities in the Rayalaseema region.
The project currently works with nearly 3,000 shepherd households across selected clusters to promote scientific sheep husbandry, breed improvement, and sustainable livestock-based livelihoods. As part of the livestock health and productivity agenda, VCF proposes to undertake a field-based research study on the prevalence of brucellosis in sheep and its impact on sheep mortality, reproductive health, and livelihoods in the CCMI project villages.
2. Objectives of the Assignment
The primary objective of this internship is to conduct a research study on the prevalence and impact of brucellosis in sheep in the CCMI project villages of the Rayalaseema region.
The Intern/Researcher will:
• Work closely with shepherd communities, CCMI field teams, the Animal Husbandry Department, and livestock research institutions to design and implement the study.
• Develop an appropriate research methodology and data collection framework for assessing brucellosis prevalence and associated risk factors.
• Conduct field surveys, sample collection coordination, and data analysis related to brucellosis in sheep populations.
• Assess the impact of brucellosis on sheep mortality, reproductive losses, flock productivity, and shepherd livelihoods.
• Document existing livestock health practices, disease awareness, and challenges faced by shepherds.
• Prepare a comprehensive research report with findings, conclusions, and practical recommendations for disease prevention and management.
3. Scope of Work / Key Responsibilities
1) Research Design and Methodology
a) Develop a detailed research methodology and study framework for assessing brucellosis prevalence in sheep.
b) Design survey tools, questionnaires, and data collection formats for field-level research.
c) Identify sampling methods, study villages, and respondent categories in consultation with project teams and technical experts.
d) Coordinate with veterinarians, laboratories, and relevant institutions for sample testing and technical guidance.
2) Field Research and Data Collection
a) Conduct field visits to selected villages in Annamayya and Sri Sathya Sai districts.
b) Collect quantitative and qualitative data from shepherd households regarding:
• Sheep mortality
• Reproductive disorders
• Abortions and stillbirths
• Disease history
• Vaccination and treatment practices
• Economic losses associated with livestock diseases
c) Support coordination of blood/sample collection and laboratory testing, wherever applicable.
d) Maintain accurate records and databases of surveyed sheep and shepherd households.
3) Data Analysis and Documentation
a) Analyze field and laboratory data to estimate the magnitude of brucellosis in the project area.
b) Assess the relationship between brucellosis and sheep mortality/reproductive losses.
c) Identify key risk factors, management gaps, and constraints affecting disease control.
d) Document community perceptions and traditional practices related to livestock health management.
4) Reporting and Recommendations
a) Prepare interim updates and progress reports for the CCMI team.
b) Develop a comprehensive final report covering:
• Study methodology
• Key findings
• Data analysis
• Challenges encountered
• Conclusions
• Recommendations for prevention, control, and awareness generation
c) Present findings and recommendations to VCF and relevant stakeholders.
4. Key Deliverables
1. Detailed research methodology and study plan on brucellosis in sheep.
2. Field survey tools and data collection formats.
3. Database of surveyed sheep and shepherd households.
4. Comprehensive research report including:
o Disease prevalence
o Mortality and reproductive impact
o Risk factors
o Economic implications
o Suggested interventions and way forward
5. Presentation of key findings and recommendations.
5. Duration and Location
• The internship will be for a period of 3 months on a full-time basis.
• The study will be conducted in selected mandals of Annamayya and Sri Sathya Sai districts in Andhra Pradesh.
• The timeline for deliverables will be finalized in consultation with the Program Manager – Livestock.
6. Qualifications and Experience
• Completed BVSc/M.V.Sc./Ph.D. in Veterinary Science, Animal Husbandry, Livestock Production, Veterinary Public Health, or related disciplines.
• Strong interest in sheep breeding, livestock health research, epidemiology, and field-based studies.
• Prior exposure to sheep production systems, disease surveillance, or rural livestock development programs will be preferred.
• Ability to conduct field surveys, interact with rural communities, and manage research data.
• Good analytical, documentation, and report-writing skills.
• Proficiency in English; knowledge of Telugu will be an added advantage.
7. Internship Support and Logistics
• Internship honorarium/stipend will be finalized as per VCF norms.
• Travel and approved field-related expenses will be reimbursed according to organizational policy.
• Necessary field-level coordination support will be provided by the CCMI project team.
8. Reporting and Coordination
The Intern/Researcher will report directly to the Program Manager – Livestock, VCF, and work closely with:
• CCMI field teams
• Jeevamithras/Community Resource Persons (CRPs)
• Shepherd communities
• Animal Husbandry Department officials
• Veterinary and livestock research institutions
The intern will be expected to maintain regular communication with the project team and ensure timely submission of outputs and reports.