Description

Graduate students and industry professionals are warmly invited to the Ecuadorian Amazon to conduct research in a number of areas related to sustainable development. Working with a dynamic NGO, indigenous communities and other researchers and consultants, you have the opportunity to help build a new, green industry in Ecuador that is already receiving national and international attention.

The NGO for which you will work provides direct market access, agroforestry training, and holistic development services to local Amazonian farming families, by leveraging Fairtrade partnerships to create lasting social change. With a network of over 600 farming families, a 20 person staff, and a diverse network of advisors and consultants, we are pioneering a social enterprise model that has the potential to transform Ecuadorian and other Amazonian economies.

We are looking for graduate students and industry professionals to conduct research in in the areas described in the next tab. Interns and researchers have the opportunity to join our Amazonian team as we build a new industry and commercial structure for Guayusa, a native tree species. Our work is highly dynamic, collaborative, and exciting at every turn.

Highlights

Community Development:

Interns and researchers on our community development team will work with ourselves and the farmers association to survey the needs of indigenous communities. Summer 2011 interns began the process of designing the survey, field work is now needed to interview all 60 communities who work with Runa. This information will be gathered for planning of future projects.

Agroforestry System Design:

Guayusa (Ilex guayusa) is a native holly tree to the Ecuadorian Amazon. Historically, the tree has been wild harvested or cultivated in small quantities. Runa works with indigenous farmers to boost production of guayusa by growing it in agroforestry systems. Researchers on our agroforestry team will work with farmers and field technicians to design a participatory research initiative.

Agricultural Economics:

Interns and researchers on our economic team will investigate the costs and benefits of guayusa produc- tion in the Napo region. They will work with our local field team and farmers to calculate net present value of guayusa plantations, opportunity costs, and the social/environmental benefits of production. Forest Conservation and Watershed Management:

Forest Conservation and Watershed Management:

Interns and researchers on our conservation team will work in the communities of Santa Rita and Alto Tena to monitor conservation buffer zones around the Colonso Protected Forest. The Colonso Forest is a 10,000 hectare (22,000 acre) reserve of primary rainforest that serves as the water source for the towns of Tena and Archidona.

In-depth information available upon request.

Qualifications

* Min age 18 - Max age 80
* Minimum 8 weeks commitment - 20+ hours a week.
* Enthusiasm, interest and knowledge to work with Agroforestery / Marketing Research
* Strong English and/or Spanish skills
* Full travel & medical insurance
* Necessary vaccinations
* Necessary flights & visas

Intern Types

Languages

• Spanish

Cost in US$:

200 USD Project Fee per month + 249 GBP Placement Fee

Cost Includes:

• Housing
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

Age Range

Min age 18 - Max age 80

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Group living
• Dormitory

Participants Travel

Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work

Independently or in Groups of 2+

Application Process Involves

• Resume
• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Typically The Application Process Time is

1-3 days

Global Nomadic Ltd's Mission Statement

Global Nomadic hosts a variety of projects and internships around the world, specially chosen for their ability to enhance career prospects in unique and diverse areas. We seek to specialise in serious placements, catering for those looking to get a foot in the door to the career they aspire to. We put you directly in touch with the project provider, offering a complete and ethical service.

Year Founded

2009