Project: I am looking for a volunteer to assist me with a project tracking seedling survival in the field and in greenhouse experiments in tropical rainforest in Ecuador. This work is part of my dissertation research on seed dispersal ecology at the University of California, Los Angeles.
Position: Volunteer Field Assistant Dates: Late January to late March (approximately 9 weeks; start and end dates may be flexible) Study Site: We will be working at the Bilsa Biological Reserve, a 3500 ha area situated within the larger Mache-Chindul Ecological Reserve in northwestern Ecuador. Together these reserves protect highly biodiverse Chocó rainforest. Bilsa is located ~12 hours from the capitol city of Quito (~7 hours by bus, ~5 hours hiking or by mule). The field station includes a communal dining area and several sleeping cabins. Duties: The volunteer will assist with setting up a greenhouse experiment and seedling plots in the field and will help monitor seedling survival. This work will involve mapping trees and seedlings with GPS units, identifying seedlings in the field, collecting fruits and soil samples from the field, preparing seeds for germination, and keeping detailed notes. Qualifications: Assistant must be in good physical condition and be able to withstand biting insects, mud, heat, humidity, and rain (we will be there during the wet season). The assistant must also be willing to work long hours (up to 8 hrs/day, 6 days per week). A background in ecology, biology, botany, or related field is required. Previous field experience and ability to speak Spanish would be helpful but are not necessary. This position would be ideal for undergraduates or recent graduates looking to gain research experience in tropical ecology. Accommodations/Expenses: We will spend ~7 weeks at Bilsa and ~2 weeks total in Quito (we will return to Quito midway through the project to pick up further field supplies). Volunteer will be responsible for airfare to Quito, accommodations and meals in Quito ($7-$20/night at hostels), and lodging at Bilsa ($25/day which includes 3 meals). Apply: To apply, please send a letter of interest and CV with references to Stephanie Steele, [email protected]. Please include Bilsa field assistant as the subject heading. Applications will be considered immediately until the position is filled.
