The
Biodiversity Group is seeking highly motivated volunteer research assistants to
join our field team in the Amazonian rainforest of Ecuador .
Our current
project includes amphibian and reptile biodiversity surveys as well as
implementing thorough plot surveys and drift fence arrays at one of our remote
study sites surrounding an Ecuadorian Kichwa community.
While Ecuador 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, The Biodiversity
Group 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.
The work that
research assistants 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 daily lab work. Field assistant will learn capture and release
methods, take detailed measurements on animal morphology, screen for chytrid
diseases, and learn techniques in animal preservation and acquisition of
DNA samples. Assistants will also have the opportunity to learn the
basics of taking diagnostic photography. Other tasks include animal
handling and general note taking and data organization.
Research
assistants will gain valuable research experience, learn about the Kichwa
community, 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. Our summer research expeditions are scheduled in Amazonian Ecuador for
June 2-13 and June 16-24, 2013. Assistants can join for one term
or two.
Qualifications:
Research
assistants accepted to join our team should be 18 or older, able to walk 10+
miles a day in hot, humid, and muddy conditions, be comfortable
working in the field late at night with a small group, and have a general
interest in conservation ecology and herpetology. However, the most
important qualifications that you can bring to the project are enthusiasm,
energy, 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 expedition.
Please go the
following link for more information about the work, expedition
fees, and to apply:
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