Description

We are currently seeking research assistants to join our field team in Ecuador studying the conservation ecology of reptiles and amphibians. The work that research participants will be involved with will primarily consist of conducting night surveys for reptiles and amphibians (however other taxa such as invertebrates are also of interest), animal data collection, and lab work. Lab work consists of more detailed information such as scale counts (for reptiles) and other morphological information, animal measurements, screening for chytrid disease (amphibians), preservation (only when necessary), and acquisition of DNA samples. Diagnostic photographs of all animals are taken. Other tasks include animal handling and general note taking and data organization. Please contact us for more information about the work.

Highlights

Volunteer participants will gain valuable research experience, contribute towards our mission in conservation ecology, and will have an unforgettable experience that provides the opportunity to study the most biologically diverse region of reptiles and amphibians in the world. While Ecuador is a relatively small country--it's roughly the size of Arizona--it stands as the third most diverse country in the world for amphibians (510 species) and is seventh for reptiles (430 species), making it a herpetologically mega-diverse region. Due to the severe deforestation taking place in addition to many other pressures on Ecuador's fauna, RAEI's research program aims to study, document, and preserve these rich and unique communities of reptiles and amphibians found within the country's diverse array of ecosystems. As we are now in our 8th year working in Ecuador, we have study sites encompassing both the coastal forests in western Ecuador and the Amazon rainforest on the eastern side of the Andes Mountains. We are also working on setting expedition dates for future sites in Alamos, Mexico.

Qualifications

Research volunteers accepted to join our team should be able to walk 10+ miles a day in hot, humid, and muddy conditions and have at least a general interest in conservation ecology. However, the most important qualifications that you can bring to the project are enthusiasm and a good work ethic. Anyone meeting these general criteria is encouraged to apply. Training for field techniques will be provided upon arrival and participants will be briefed on safety and risks prior to and during the research experience.

Intern Types

Type of Programs

• Adventure Travel
• Community Service / Volunteerism

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

1,200

Cost Includes:

• Excursions
• Food
• Housing
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support
• Registration fees
• Travel while in host country
• Written materials abroad

Program Fees Include:

The participation donation is USD 1200 and will cover expenses for a full tour, which includes in-country travel, food, specialized field equipment, lodging, guides, training, and staff.

Credit Available

yes

Experience Required

yes

Applicants with an interest in tropical herpetology and/or conservation ecology are urged to apply.

Volunteer Types

Age Range

14-18 and 18 and up

This Program is open to

American, Asian, Australian, Canadian, European, Kiwi, South African and Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Group living
• Other

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

in Groups of 4-15

Application Process Involves

• Essay
• Online Application plus Application Assessment
• Other
• Resume

Typically The Application Process Time is

14 business days

Post Services Include

• Job and Internship Network

Reptile and Amphibian Ecology International's Mission Statement

Our central goal is to facilitate informed management decisions by people, governments, and land preservation organizations that will protect these fascinating animals and the land they need to survive.

Year Founded

2001