Internships in Pichincha, Ecuador

Conduct in-field research on endemic species of flora and fauna in the Cloud Forest. This is an incredible opportunity for aspiring conservation workers and biology students. Since 2009, the organization has been operating in La Hesperia Cloud Forest Reserve. This is an area of unique significance to cloud forest conservation. It is the meeting point of two of South America’s biodiversity hotspots and home to an incredible number of endemic species. They conduct long-term research on specific species to identify important habitats to protect and develop sustainable farming practices. They also function in a number of advocacy and community outreach capacities. As a participant in this program, you’ll help maintain and develop their various research projects. The organization tends to have a few different projects in operation, so there's great scope for a variety of work. You could be setting camera traps to study large cats or capuchins, working on sustainable chocolate production initiatives, or assisting with other projects. You can also develop your own projects and propose them.

This is an ideal program for students and recent graduates looking to gain practical experience in social work within an international setting. ELEP welcomes participants who are sensitive to the needs of unfortunate children, women, seniors, and people with mental or physical disabilities. Depending on your abilities and the placement, take on duties such as counseling, training, and mentoring for children, youth, and seniors. You also handle administrative tasks assigned by your immediate superior. Eligibility for this program includes: * Vested interest in training abroad * Willingness to learn and patience for mastering new skills * Initiative, flexibility, and ability to work independently or in teamwork * Professional demeanor * Good organizational skills and attention to detail * Good communication skills, both oral and written * Real interest in social work issues * Outgoing personality and sense of humor * Creative, open-mindedness, self-motivation