Description

Para la Tierra has recently launched a new long term study on the Paraguayan tufted capuchin (Cebus apella paraguayanus). Located within the Atlantic forest at the Laguna Blanca wildlife reserve these populations are poorly studied and understood. The project aims to establish long term research into the behavior, ecology, and genetics of this species.

Para la Tierra seeks volunteers to assist in the preliminary stages of the project. Presently the capuchins are not fully habituated or radio collared. Volunteers will be expected to assist in all parts of the project. Duties will include trail cutting, trail marking, GPS work, map making, daily searches for the monkeys, and collection of basic data. Volunteers will be expected to work 5-6 days per week and between 6-10 hours per day.

Highlights

This position will provide an excellent opportunity to gain valuable experience in living and working at a field research site as well as in the study of wild primates. Successful volunteers in these primary stages of the project will be prioritised when fully funded behavioural assistantships become available later in the year.

Qualifications

Essential requirements

1. Interest in natural habitats and animal behaviour
2. Hard working
3. High level of enthusiasm, commitment, and motivation
4. Above average level of physical fitness
5. Ability to work both independently and within a team of local and European/US researchers

Desired but not essential

1. Experience in working on a field research project
2. Some level of foreign travel or living/work experience within a developing country and ideally the tropics
3. A university level qualification in animal behaviour, zoology, anthropology or other relevant discipline
4. Prepared to make a minimum commitment of 2 months
5. Competent in Spanish (verbal)

Additionally volunteers must have a tolerance towards local customs and beliefs and be comfortable with other conditions and risks that are simply part of tropical fieldwork, such as limited health care and rare confrontations with potentially dangerous plants or animals.

Minimum Education

High School

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

USD 750/month for first 2 months, USD 700 thereafter.

Cost Includes:

• Emergency evacuation services
• Food
• Housing
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support
• Language instruction
• Pre-departure orientation/Training
• Written materials abroad
• Written materials pre-departure

Program Fees Include:

Comfortable accommodation (shared rooms and bathrooms, hot showers), 3 meals per day, laundry, wireless internet, free access to leisure activities within the reserve (horse riding, kayaking), transportation from local town to field site.
You will recieve expert training in fieldwork techniques. Full orientation will be provided.

Credit Available

yes

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

Typical Volunteer

Undergraduate or newly graduated science major who seeks research experience to prepare them for graduate school or to enter a career. Usually hold a strong interest in biology and behavior or anthropology. No field experience necessary.

Age Range

over 18

This Program is open to

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

Typical Living Arrangements

• Dormitory
• Group living

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

in Groups of 3

Application Process Involves

• Letters of Reference
• Resume
• Written Application

Typically The Application Process Time is

4 days

Para La Tierra's Mission Statement

Para La Tierra is a not-for-profit organisation focused on the conservation of Reserva Natural Laguna Blanca through scientific research and community outreach.

Year Founded

2009