2 ofertas de postdoctorados trabajando con fauna y flora del Amazonas

 

Oferta compartida por Daniel Fernández en el Biogrupo  

1) 2-yr postdoc on Making biodiversity inventories more efficient

The Department of Biology, Aarhus University invites applications for a fulltime 2-year postdoc position on:  Making biodiversity inventories more efficient. This postdoc project is part of a larger project funded by the Danish National Research Foundation. The overall aim is to understand how tropical plant diversity originated and how it is distributed at present.

The focus is especially on Amazonian rainforests, which house a large part of the Earth's biodiversity but are facing severe threats from climate change and human impact. We urgently need knowledge on biogeographical and ecological ranges of species, and these in turn need many observations of species occurrences from the field. However, such data are very laborious to produce, because traditional field inventories are slow, they require species identification skills that few people have, and the area that needs to be covered is very large.

These problems may be alleviated by approaching field inventories and species identification in new ways that allow non-specialists to contribute to the collection of species occurrence data. One such possibility is to use spectral leaf characteristics to facilitate species identification. The present project aims to test to what degree this approach can facilitate identification of Amazonian understory plants, especially ferns, and to combine it with already existing large datasets to enhance biodiversity mapping in Amazonia.

Starting date and period 

The position is for two years and is available from August 1st, 2024, or soon thereafter.

Job description 

The project aims to enhance ways of making biodiversity inventories more rapid and less dependent on the species identification skills of individual researchers. The focus will be on collecting and analyzing spectral traits on Amazonian understory plants, especially ferns, and to make the results available to the broader public in species identification tools. To test the approach, both already existing material and new material to be collected during coming field trips can be used. The postdoc is expected to contribute ideas and concepts to the project and actively collaborate with other team members, including students and researchers based at other institutions. Participation in field work is encouraged. The postdoc is expected to lead at least two high-quality papers in this research area and contribute to public outreach and teaching.

Your profile 

Applicants must have a PhD degree or equivalent in a relevant field (e.g., ecology, biology, botany) or have submitted their PhD thesis for assessment before the application deadline. The broader project is mostly focusing on ferns as indicators of general floristic variation (with some attention to other plants such as palms), so experience with identifying plants is an advantage. The successful candidate is expected to have good collaborative skills, proven ability to publish at a high international level, and excellent command of the English language. Knowledge of Portuguese or Spanish is an advantage but is not required.

Application materials 

Include a motivation letter (1 page, specify your qualifications for carrying out the planned research), a preliminary research plan (max. 3 pages, outline how you might focus your work to address the research questions mentioned above), CV (including number of citations and H-index from Google Scholar and full list of publications), and educational documentation (copies of diplomas for Master and PhD degrees). Diplomas can be in English or Danish, other materials must be in English.

Supervisor and collaborators 

The work will be supervised by Professor Hanna Tuomisto (Aarhus University) and Dr. Flávia Durgante (Karlsruhe Institute of Technology). The postdoc will be integrated in and collaborating with others at the Section for Ecoinformatics & Biodiversity (ECOINF) in the Department of Biology, Aarhus University. There will also be collaboration with several research institutes abroad, notably University of Turku in Finland, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology in Germany, and several institutes in South America.

What we offer 

The successful candidate is offered:

• an ambitious, creative, and friendly research environment, inviting lively, open and critical discussion within and across different fields of research
• a working environment with teamwork, close working relations, network activities among young scientists and social activities
• a workplace characterized by professionalism, equality, and a healthy work-life balance
• access to a well-developed research infrastructure 
• office space, shared equipment

Place of work 

The place of employment and work is the Section for Ecoinformatics & Biodiversity (ECOINF), Department of Biology, Aarhus University, Ny Munkegade 116, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark.

About the Department 

The Department of Biology hosts research programs and teaching curricula that cover all major biological sub-disciplines. The Department currently employs approximately 140 academic and technical staff and 40 PhD students. The Department hosts BSc and MSc study programs in Biology with about 400 students enrolled as well as a PhD program. The Department offers a vibrant and informal research environment with a long-standing tradition for collaboration with international university partners in the absolute elite. 

The working language is English, and we welcome applications from all genders of all backgrounds. Read about the Danish work-life balance, special opportunities for junior researchers, and the services available when relocating to Aarhus University here. The campus of Aarhus University is located in a beautiful park close to the city center. Aarhus city has a population of about 300,000 people.

Life quality and time allocation to family life in Denmark is high, and international investigations usually report that no other nationality score higher in terms of life satisfaction.

You can read more about the Department of Biology here.

Contact information 

Applicants seeking further information are invited to contact: Professor Hanna Tuomisto,
e-mail: hanna.tuomisto@bio.au.dk.

 

https://bio.au.dk/om-instituttet/ledige-stillinger/job/re-advertisement-2-yr-postdoc-on-making-biodiversity-inventories-more-efficient 

 

 

2) Postdoctoral Researcher (2 years) in the Amazon Research Team

 

The Faculty of Science at the University of Turku invites applications for contract-based, fixed term postdoctoral researcher position. Employment starts on 1.8.2024 or as agreed and lasts for two years.

The postdoctoral researcher will join the project "Evolution of landscapes, rivers and biota in Amazonia". The project is funded by the Research Council of Finland and is carried out in collaboration with several research institutes in Europe, Brazil and USA.

The overall aim of the project is to understand spatial distribution patterns of animals and plants in Amazonian rainforests in the light of evolutionary and biogeographical processes that may have driven their diversification. Attention is paid especially to the geological and climatical history of the area, dispersal barriers they may have created, and current as well as past environmental heterogeneity. To obtain a generalized view, the project addresses distributional patterns and population genomic structure of several plant and animal groups in parallel. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Carrying out active research related to the project themes, including data management and analysis
• Leading the writing of at least two good-quality scientific papers
• Participation in relevant outreach activities

Apply between 25 April 2024 and 21 May 2024 16:00 (Europe/Helsinki)

Who we are looking for

Requirements

Applicants should have a PhD degree in a relevant field (e.g., ecology, biology) or have submitted their PhD thesis for evaluation before the application deadline. The successful applicant should show high motivation, enthusiasm for science, ability to work both independently and as a member of an international research team, and interest in addressing questions at the intersection of biology and geology. We especially look for experience with handling large datasets consisting of species occurrence and/or genomic data as well as familiarity with spatial analysis and GIS.

We value equality and diversity in our work community and encourage qualified applicants, regardless of background, to apply for our open positions.

 

Salary and trial period

The salary of the postdoctoral researcher will be based on job demand level 5 of the university salary chart for teachers and researchers. The task-specific basic salary component is 3213.55 euros per month and the additional component determined by personal performance is 6–50 % of the basic salary.

The position has a probation period of six months.

How to apply

Please submit your application through our online recruitment system. The closing date for applications is Tuesday 21.5.2024 at 16.00 (EEST GMT+3 / at 13:00 UTC).

Applicants should enclose with their application:

• motivation letter explaining why you are interested in and qualified for the position
• CV
• list of publications (including number of citations and H-index from Google Scholar)
• preliminary research plan: outline how you might address the research questions mentioned above (maximum 3 pages)
• degree certificate(s)
• name and contact information of two academic referees
• other documents that may influence the filling of the position.

Further information

For further information about the position, please contact: professor Hanna Tuomisto, hanna.tuomisto@utu.fi

With questions about the application process, please contact: HR-specialist Kaisa Ketomäki, kaisa.ketomaki(at)utu.fi

https://ats.talentadore.com/apply/tutkijatohtori-2v-amazon-tutkimusryhmaan/ZANXWj?lang=en

 

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Trabaja como técnico de investigación en la amazonia peruana

Oferta compartida por Nuria

Research Technician for project in tropical Lepidoptera systematics & ecology, Madre de Dios, Peru

Seeking a Research Technician in Molecular Biology based at the Finca Las Piedras research station in Madre de Dios, Peru, to support the PROCIENCIA-funded project “Ecology and systematics of Lepidoptera in the Peruvian Amazon through in situ analysis of DNA barcodes” (PE501082173-2023). This project is led by Dr. Geoffrey Gallice of the Pontifical Catholic University of Peru, in collaboration with the Peruvian NGO Alianza para una Amazonía Sostenible Perú and several other international collaborators. Our group uses Lepidoptera as a model group to study Amazonian biodiversity and ecology using experimental and observational approaches in the field and laboratory.
The Research Technician will be part of our effort to answer various questions using emerging technologies in a remote rainforest setting.

JOB DESCRIPTION

• Job title & type: Research Technician in Molecular Biology – Independent Contractor
• Institution: Pontifical Catholic University of Peru (PUCP)
• Project PI: Dr. Geoffrey Gallice (PUCP)
• Compensation: PEN125,000 (approx. US$32,750 as of Nov. 2023) for the entire period of performance
• Period of performance: April 2024 – July 2025 (16 months)
• Location: On site at the Finca Las Piedras research station, Madre de Dios, Peru
• Position open to: Residents and non-residents of Peru (all nationalities)
• Call dates: Posted: 15 Nov. 2023; closing date: 31 Dec. 2023

About the Project
The project funded by PROCIENCIA aims to combine information regarding the morphology, distribution, natural & life histories, and ecological interactions of butterflies and moths in southeastern Peru with DNA sequence information (DNA barcodes) generated in the field to study important questions surrounding the diversity and ecology of this key group of Amazonian organisms. To generate DNA barcodes, a field DNA laboratory equipped with a nanopore-based sequencer and other miniaturized equipment will be installed at the Finca Las Piedras research station located in the rainforest of Madre de Dios, Peru.

Scope of Work
The main responsibilities of the Research Technician (RT) are to:

1. assist in the establishment of a field-based molecular genetic laboratory at Finca Las Piedras (FLP), 
2. provide specific technical and research support to the project in the form of routine and novel molecular genetics techniques to conduct in situ DNA sequencing, and 
3. be responsible for the smooth functioning of the molecular genetics laboratory at FLP, including keeping the lab organized, managing data collection, processing, and storage, ordering and stock-taking of materials, and ensuring health and safety in the lab.

The RT will also train and support experimental work by collaborators and students, solve technical problems as they arise, and assist in other relevant tasks as needed.
The RT will perform their work on site at FLP. Full room and board will be provided throughout the entire duration of the contract period.

Profile of the Research Technician
We are seeking a Research Technician with experience performing standard molecular genetic laboratory techniques (e.g., DNA extractions, preparation of DNA sequencing libraries, etc.) and the ability to use emerging technologies (e.g., nanopore-based sequencers) to conduct DNA sequencing, all in a field setting that presents unique challenges but also great opportunities. Therefore, you should have a strong desire to learn new techniques and an ability to adapt to new environments, be well-organized, have a proactive and self-motivated attitude toward problem solving, and have a willingness to support other team members.
Applications are welcome from Peru, other Latin American countries, or those from any other country. Fluency or proficiency in both Spanish and English are preferred.

Main Duties & Responsibilities
Research Duties

• Be responsible, under the general guidance of Dr. Geoffrey Gallice and other project collaborators, for performing tasks required to achieve project goals independently
• Conduct the routine preparation of tissue samples and libraries for DNA sequencing from field-collected and/or museum specimens on a nanopore-based sequencer
• Support and/or lead the development and application of new laboratory techniques using portable, miniaturized equipment to perform field-based DNA sequencing
• Maintain appropriate written and digitized records of research/laboratory protocols and results, and ensure proper data storage 
• Contribute to experimental work by project collaborators, staff, and students
• Keep up to date with new methods and contribute to the development of improved protocols and techniques, including solutions to problems as they arise
• Perform other relevant duties that may reasonably be expected by the project lead or collaborators in order to achieve the project objectives

Laboratory Management

• Ensure safety in the working environment in accordance with project-related protocols
• Assist in the safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous wastes including equipment, glassware, chemicals, solvents, and biological waste
• Non-scientific tasks such as ordering materials, stock-taking of reagents, and general organization of the lab
• Provide training in key methods to project staff, collaborators, and students.

The above list of responsibilities is not exhaustive, and the Research Technician may be required to undertake other duties commensurate with the level of the role and in accordance with the project goals, as reasonably requested by the project lead or collaborators.

QUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE & SKILLS
This table lists the essential and desirable qualities to perform the job of Research Technician effectively. Essential qualities are those without which the job could not be done; desirable qualities
are those that would enable the Research Technician to excel in the role.

Qualifications 
BSc/BA degree in relevant fieldMaster’s degree or other postgraduate degree in relevant field

Experience

• General experience in standard molecular genetics laboratory techniques, including DNA extraction (ideally high molecular weight), running gels, preparing dilutions, etc.
• Advanced PCR skills, including PCR optimization
• Library preparation for Illumina and/or PacBio sequencing
• Library preparation for nanopore sequencing (preferred)
• Experience in large scale data collection and storage
• Experience or familiarity with processing NGS data using computer programming/scripting (preferred)

Skills

• Strong organizational skill with the ability to work independently and prioritize tasks on a short to long term basis
• Ability to live and work as part of a diverse team at a remote research station in the tropical rainforest
• Ability to maintain good laboratory records 
• Ability to adhere to laboratory protocols
• Ability to proactively solve research and technical problems in a timely and independent manner
• Commitment to ensuring compliance with relevant health & safety protocols
• Well-developed communication skills
• Proficiency in Spanish and English (preferred)

MORE ABOUT FINCA LAS PIEDRAS AND LIFE AT A RESEARCH STATION
Finca Las Piedras (FLP) is a research station managed by the Peruvian non-profit Alianza para una Amazonía Sostenible Perú. Located approximately 1 hr by car from the Madre de Dios regional capital Puerto Maldonado, the site provides access to a variety of Amazonian ecosystems via an extensive trail network. FLP provides staff and visitors lodging and three meals per day on site to maximize the time spent conducting research activities; laboratory and other workspace, public space for recreation and relaxation, WiFi, and other amenities are also available. Click below for more information about FLP can be found here

TO APPLY
Send the following materials as a single PDF document titled “application_ResearchTechnicianLepidoptera_LASTNAME.pdf” to ggallice@pucp.edu.pe:

1. Cover letter (1-2 pages) describing your motivation(s) for seeking this unique position and your most relevant experiences or skills that make you an ideal fit for the job
2. Current CV, including contact information for two professional references who can speak to your ability to perform the job

Deadline to apply: 31 December 2023
For questions email Dr. Geoff Gallice: ggallice@pucp.edu.pe

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Doctorado que incluye recoger datos acusticos y muestras de eDNA en el Amazonas para desarrollar un marco de monitoreo de biodiversidad

Oferta compartida por Cristina

PhD position Biodiversity co-benefits of large scale restoration in the Brazilian Amazon

Supervisors: Dr Cristina Banks-Leite (mailto:c.banks@imperial.ac.uk); Prof Rob Ewers, Life Sciences; Dr. William Pearse, Life Sciences; Dr. Renato Crouzeilles, Mombak 

Department: Department of Life Sciences 

Climate change and biodiversity loss dominate concerns over anthropogenic modification of the natural world. For the last 40 years, each decade has been successively warmer than the last; the most recent with global surface temperatures 1.09°C higher than before the industrial era. In addition to a changing climate, life on Earth is under extreme pressure from habitat change, invasive species, over-exploitation and pollution (Millennium Ecosystem Assessment, 2005). As a result, it has been estimated that 1 million species will likely go extinct in the coming decades, coinciding with declines in overall biomass (IPBES report, 2019). 

We are now seeing a strong push for the development of large-scale solutions to reduce atmospheric carbon dioxide levels and air pollution to mitigate climate change, while also reversing trends in biodiversity decline. One solution being increasingly promoted is reforestation, as it is likely one of the most effective strategies to sequester CO2, and the most effective strategy to mitigate biodiversity loss in tropical forest areas. Reforestation is however an umbrella term for many types of interventions that range from planting non-native trees in non-forested areas to restoring native habitat. In this project, we are partnering with Mombak, a start-up based in Brazil aiming to become the world’s largest company on carbon removal with highest integrity, starting by reforestation the Brazilian Amazon. Mombak aims to have about 100,000 hectares of Amazonian forest under reforestation within the next five years and within this setting we will ask the following questions: 

1) How do soundscapes change through time and does landscape and regional features and planting scheme affect this trajectory? 

2) Are ecological trends revealed by acoustic monitoring similar to those obtained by environmental eDNA? 

3) What spatial and temporal environmental factors drive alpha, beta and gamma diversity? 

This project includes a field season in the Amazon to collect acoustic data and samples for eDNA analyses. Student will use machine learning to process acoustic data to calculate changes in acoustic composition and variation in acoustic diversity across the diel cycle. Student will also perform ecological analyses to compare acoustic data to eDNA, which will be sequenced by commercial partners. The outcome of this project will both aid Mombak to develop a cutting edge biodiversity monitoring framework for the carbon market and will drive forward the knowledge on biodiversity recovery in reforested areas.

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Varios puestos de trabajo y voluntariados para trabajar en el Amazonas

Oferta compartida por Cristina

We're looking to add new members to the Tapiche family! If you've ever dreamt of working in the Amazon rainforest and making a real difference in person and on the ground, check out our volunteer and paid positions below:

Volunteer Positions

If you’re ever wanted to get personally involved and contribute your physical presence and work to environmental conservation, this is your chance! We’re looking for volunteers to join our Tapiche Citizen Science Turtle Rescue Project for June - September 2022! Last year we broke our previous record and collected over 10,000 turtle eggs. We need your help more than ever this year to keep the positive trend going!

Volunteers will have direct conservation impact on species survival, collect scientific data to inform future conservation plans, and set positive conservation examples for surrounding areas, maintaining good relations with local communities.

Every year thousands of turtles lay their eggs on the beaches of the Tapiche Reserve from June-September. The turtles and their eggs fetch a high price on the black market and are heavily poached outside of the reserve. We carefully collect eggs from the beaches, incubate them at our hatchery, and raise the babies in our nursery until they are strong enough to start their lives back in the wild. We may monitor the beaches before sunrise, midday, and especially late afternoon/evening. We collect data like nest location, species of turtle (Yellow-spotted Amazon River turtle-Podocnemis unifilis, Six-Tubercled Amazon River turtle-Podocnemis sextuberculata, Arrau turtle-Podocnemis expansa), how many eggs, time of day, relative air and water temperature and moon phase.

-6 week minimum commitment
-Conversational Spanish required minimum
-Volunteer sustenance fee USD 17/day includes one round-trip transport between the city of Iquitos and the remote lodge (10-12 hour travel day), accommodation in our volunteer house with shared bath facilities at the lodge, and all meals while at the reserve.
-No use of recreational substances and no smoking at the reserve
-Be ready for physical work, e.g. helping to build and maintain egg incubation boxes on the beach in front of the lodge, carefully collecting turtle eggs from the beaches around the reserve, and re-burying eggs in the incubation boxes. Your hands will be in the sand, so you must be willing to get dirty!

Bonus if you have knowledge or experience in the following: fiberglass and aluminum boat maintenance, mechanical knowledge of outboard motors, handling canoes and smaller watercraft with paddles and long-arm economical motors (locally called peque-peque), driving an outboard motorboat both with remote steering as well as directly from the stern of the boat, carpentry, outdoor leadership/guiding visitors in jungle habitat; identifying wildlife, first-aid training, hospitality experience, experience with minor electrical, plumbing, solar or mechanical repairs.

Learn more about our turtle rescue on our dedicated page here and in our collection of turtle rescue blog posts

Email us tapichejungle@gmail.com with subject “Volunteer” to apply. Please tell us a bit about yourself, let us know when you can arrive, how long you can stay, and what relevant skills and experience you may have. We work hard to ensure a good fit between volunteers and the reserve—we want the benefits to be mutual!

We are currently raising funds for the reserve and may be able to offer a scholarship for volunteers in financial need; please let us know if you would like to be considered.


Paid Positions

1. Lodge manager

The lodge manager's main responsibilities include: coordinating the logistics of guests, staff, volunteers and supplies between the city of Iquitos and the remote lodge, supervising and coordinating tasks of other employees and volunteers, ensuring smooth operation of the lodge facilities (water supply, plumbing, solar and generator-powered electricity), ensuring the cleanliness and safety of lodge structures and conditions, and monitoring boat and engine cleanliness and safety. The lodge manager will also be the primary point of contact for the local people we work with, so fluency in English and Spanish is a minimum requirement.

Minimum commitment 6 months. Training will be provided by the current team members with a trial period of one month. During the trial period, a small fee of $17 USD per day will defray operating costs of sustaining an extra human at the lodge. After the trial period, the lodge manager will be compensated in an amount to be negotiated, and meals and accommodation at the lodge will be provided at no fee.

Like all other positions, the lodge manager will take part in and assist with all aspects of maintaining the lodge, the boats, and the property as needed. We’re looking to fill this position immediately.

Please email a cover letter and resume or CV to tapichejungle@gmail.com with subject “Lodge Manager” to apply.


2. Translator/naturalist guide

This position involves facilitating communications between local guides and guests. The individual should be knowledgeable about tropical flora and fauna. We receive a mix of guests, some who are specifically birders and/or mammalwatchers, and some who have a general interest in nature and are not necessarily focused on birds or mammals yet appreciate learning species names and making lists to take home and share (brag about) with family and friends. Our local guides will co-guide with the naturalist guides; our local guides have extensive experience at the reserve and excel at finding and spotting individual animals and plants. The naturalist guide is encouraged to help highlight the knowledge and skills of our local guides and may choose to provide additional technical or species information not covered by the local guides. The naturalist guide will be able to expand his/her knowledge of the flora and fauna at Tapiche by working with our local guides. It is essential to be fluent in English and Spanish. Typically, there are morning and afternoon outings and, after dinner, there may be short evening walks around the immediate area of the lodge. Lodging and meals at the lodge provided. Compensation to be negotiated.

Like all other positions, the naturalist guide will (time permitting) take part in and assist with all aspects of maintaining the lodge, the boats, and the property as needed. However, the highest priority of the naturalist guide is to work with our local guides to assure that the guests safely enjoy viewing the amazing flora and fauna of Tapiche. We’re looking to fill this position immediately.

Please email a cover letter and resume or CV to tapichejungle@gmail.com with subject “Translator/naturalist guide” to apply.


3. Trail and lagoon monitoring and maintenance

During the low-water season, guests explore the property on foot on our system of trails and also visit the lagoons on the property. Trails and lagoons must be maintained in good condition, and it also helps us to track the movement of different animal species throughout the reserve. The in-person presence also helps to detect and deter unauthorized visitors in a peaceful manner. Much like other protected areas, the success of Tapiche as a nearly pristine rainforest, as well as its appeal to the visitors who are the main source of our income, requires that our team continues to protect the forest and the wildlife as we have done for the past 12 years, minimizing the amount of unauthorized take of animals and plants as much as possible. Our team’s experience has shown that the presence of staff on the trails and in the lagoons, along with our work with local communities, is key to this effort.

Experience as a park ranger would be ideal but not required. Individuals must be able to drive boats with outboard motors, maneuver boats with paddles, be willing to learn to drive small boats with local long-arm motors (peque-peque) and must speak English and Spanish. Lodging and meals at the lodge provided. Compensation to be negotiated.

Like all other positions, the monitoring and maintenance staff will (time permitting) take part in and assist with all aspects of maintaining the lodge, the boats, and the property as needed. However, their highest priority is the monitoring and maintenance of the property. We’re looking to fill this position immediately.

Please email a cover letter and resume or CV to tapichejungle@gmail.com with subject “Trail monitoring and maintenance” to apply.

For all available positions, high priority will be given to candidates who, in addition to having the skills and experience required for their role, may have knowledge or experience in: fiberglass and aluminum boat maintenance, mechanical knowledge of outboard motors, handling canoes and smaller watercraft with paddles and long-arm economical motors (locally called peque-peque), driving an outboard motorboat both with remote steering as well as directly from the stern of the boat, carpentry, outdoor leadership/guiding visitors in jungle habitat; identifying wildlife, first-aid training, hospitality experience, experience with minor electrical, plumbing, solar or mechanical repairs.

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Doctorado muy chulo en el Amazonas Brasileño, estudiando el efecto del cambio climático en la pesca

Fisheries and Climate Change PhD Assistantship

A qualified and motivated candidate is sought to develop a PhD study on the topic of fisheries modeling in relation to habitat and hydrology in the Brazilian Amazon. The overall focus is on understanding deforestation and climate change effects on fish catch. This research is part of a large, interdisciplinary project, called “Sustaining Amazon floodplain biodiversity and fisheries under climate change”, which involves five countries (Brazil, France, UK, Canada, US) and is sponsored by BNP Paribas. Funding includes stipend, tuition, and field travel.

Applicants must have: (i) a M.S. in ecology, fisheries, or related field; (ii) record of involvement in research; and (iii) prior experience in the peer-reviewed publication process. Quantitative skills are a plus. Anticipated start is Summer or Fall 2020. Applications will be considered in the order they are received. Only pre-selected applicants will be contacted.

E-mail questions about the position to Leandro Castello (www.leandrocastello.org). To apply, send an email to leandro@vt.edu containing: a letter of interest, curriculum vitae, transcripts, (overall) GPA and GRE scores, and contact information for three references. The letter of interest must address your research interests, why you are interested in this particular position, and what qualifications you have for successfully completing a PhD program. Selected applicants will (later) need to apply to the Virginia Tech Graduate School before final acceptance (http://fishwild.vt.edu/pros_graduate.htm). Further information can be found here: https://leandrocastello.org/ph-d-assistantship-available-for-2020/

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Curiosa oportunidad para ganar experiencia en la selva

Amazon Frontlines es una organización estadounidense 501c3 con sede en Lago Agrio, Ecuador, que trabaja en la protección del territorio, la cultura, los derechos y las prácticas ancestrales de los pueblos indígenas. El equipo de Amazon Frontlines está compuesto por abogados de derechos humanos, activistas ambientales, especialistas forestales, científicos, educadores, tecnólogos, cineastas, periodistas y antropólogos, que viven y trabajan en el territorio amazónico junto a nuestros socios indígenas. En los últimos ocho años, hemos aprendido cómo empoderar a los pueblos indígenas y amplificar ese poder para proteger a la Amazonía; proteger la selva es parte importante de nuestra misión.
Amazon Frontlines apoya a las comunidades indígenas con capacitación, tecnología y el acompañamiento técnico necesario para detener las actividades ilegales a través del monitoreo forestal y mapeo territorial que proveen herramientas para defender y administrar efectivamente sus territorios y asegurar títulos de propiedad de sus tierras ancestrales.

El puesto de Líder de Vigilancia Territorial es un rol de tiempo completo basado en la Amazonía, que en coordinación con el equipo del Territorio, ejecuta en las comunidades nuestro modelo de conservación forestal liderado por indígenas en Ecuador, Perú y Colombia. El papel consiste en ayudar a diseñar y probar tecnologías de vanguardia y herramientas digitales específicamente diseñadas para las necesidades de los pueblos y comunidades indígenas, y luego proporcionar a las comunidades la capacitación y el apoyo para gobernar sus tierras de manera efectiva.

Amazon Frontlines trabaja en estrecha colaboración con la Alianza Ceibo en todas las iniciativas de Defensa Territorial.



ROLES Y RESPONSABILIDADES

• Acompañamiento técnico a los guardias comunitarios
• Desarrollar, junto con la Alianza Ceibo y el Equipo Territorial, estrategias de monitoreo, defensa de la tierra y planes de implementación para apoyar a las comunidades de Siona, Siekopai, Cofán y Waorani.
• Ayudar a coordinar los procesos de organización de las guardias comunitarias, que incluyen visitas de campo regulares e informes de monitoreo mensuales.
• Investigar las amenazas actuales y potenciales a las tierras indígenas y ayudar en la creación de informes, mapas y otros materiales visuales necesarios para los procesos comunitarios, acciones legales y recursos digitales.
• Brindar apoyo técnico en la documentación y organización de evidencia sobre los invasiones de tierras, actividades ilegales y otros resultados de la contaminación, a fin de alimentar estrategias legales y de comunicación a nivel local, nacional e internacional.
• Coordinar e implementar capacitaciones de campo en las comunidades sobre el uso de estrategias y tecnologías de monitoreo y mapeo, incluyendo GPS, drones, cámaras trampa, softwares de mapeo, video, fotografía y técnicas de archivo.
• Coordinar las relaciones y colaboraciones con laboratorios científicos internacionales, socios y aliados en temas de monitoreo y defensa de la tierra.
• Coordinar procesos para equipar a las guardias comunitarias con el equipo y la tecnología adecuada para realizar viajes de vigilancia territorial de larga duración, salidas de mapeo y trabajos de protección y defensa del territorio.

Recaudación de fondos / Desarrollo
Desempeñar un papel clave en la redacción de propuestas y los informes de subvenciones relacionados con Vigilancia Territorial.
Apoyar al equipo de desarrollo en la ampliación de las asociaciones filantrópicas para el apoyo de los procesos comunitarios de Vigilancia Territorial.

Comunicación
Escribir blogs y contenido de redes sociales para el sitio web de Amazon Frontlines;
Crear y mantener actualizada la literatura, las reseñas de prensa y otros contenidos importantes para Amazon Frontlines y la Alianza Ceibo.

Apoyo Organizativo
Brindar acompañamiento organizativo a las organizaciones locales asociadas, incluida la Alianza Ceibo y ayudar con la creación de estructuras que faciliten las operaciones de los socios, especialmente relacionadas con Vigilancia Territorial.



CALIFICACIONES REQUERIDAS

• Experiencia previa en contextos amazónicos (deseable).
• Conocimiento sobre las luchas de defensa territorial de los pueblos indígenas amazónicos.
• Al menos 2 años de experiencia trabajando con comunidades indígenas.
• Disposición y disponibilidad para trabajar en el campo y en condiciones remotas de la selva (a veces durante muchos días).
• Conocimiento de tecnologías de monitoreo (dron, mapeo, muestreo de agua y suelo, etc.)
• Experiencia como facilitador/a sobre el uso de tecnologías de mapeo y monitoreo ambiental (deseable).
• Habilidades en la escritura de informes y propuestas para aliados y donantes (deseable).
• Buen liderazgo y experiencia trabajando en un equipo diverso y multicultural.

Ubicación: Lago Agrio, Amazonía ecuatoriana.

Asignación de tiempo: Full-Time.

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Voluntariado remunerado con delfines en el Amazonas

By Auch - Flickr, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=12401496

RIVER DOLPHIN RESEARCH INTERNSHIPS IN BRAZIL STARTING SOON


Once again, Projeto Boto is recruiting for 9-month internships in the Mamirauá Reserve, Amazon State, Brazil. We require fit, enthusiastic, hard-working fieldworkers who will carry forward our long-term study of botos (Amazon river dolphins). Due to close involvement with local communities, interns are required to have at least moderate Portuguese language skills, or to speak excellent Spanish, in addition to English. Unfortunately, there can be no exceptions. In previous years we have received many applications from people who do not fulfil these language criteria, and this is counter-productive for all. Please only apply if you have the necessary skills.

Projeto boto was established in 1994. To date it has hosted more than 60 interns of many different nationalities. The Project's objective is to conserve the boto, and the sympatric tucuxi, through research leading to greater understanding of the biology and ecology of these dolphins. In recent years we have also spent considerable time investigating the impacts of fisheries on these species, and especially a harpoon hunt, in which thousands of botos are killed each year for fish bait. Over the years, our interns have collected vital data on the loss of dolphins that we are now directly using to help conserve and protect them.

We are seeking two people to commence work as soon as possible, and we would also like to hear from people available in mid-late 2018. Because of visa restrictions introduced by the Brazilian Government, which restrict the length of stay of many nationalities, we may need to give priority to applicants from South American countries.

Our work is centred on a floating lab/accommodation base, moored in the flooded forest. The research team comprises 3-5 people, who maintain daily observational boat-based research effort year-round. The basis of the work is the piecing together of the lives of over 680 individually recognisable dolphins, to provide publishable information on such diverse topics as growth, reproduction, habitat use, social system, seasonal movements, survival rates, causes of mortality etc.

Interns are provided with free accommodation and food, and receive a small monthly stipend (approx $100 US). Transportation to the fieldsite (near the town of Tefé, Amazonas) from Manaus is provided, but interns must arrange and pay for their own transportation to Manaus. They must also have adequate medical insurance. Please do not apply unless you know that you can obtain the airfare to reach Manaus. All necessary training is provided on site.

Internships offer the opportunity of a lifetime. You will see dolphins, monkeys, caimans and exotic birds every day. These appointments reward hard work and dedication with unique experiences and a chance to stand out from the crowd in subsequent applications for higher degrees and employment.

Successful applicants will:

be aged 21-35 and physically fit

speak at least moderate Portuguese or fluent Spanish, in addition to English

be available for 9-12 months

have completed a university degree, preferably in zoology or biology

preferably have some fieldwork experience, especially in the use of photo-ID



Applicants should please provide:



Full CV, complete with age, nationality, linguistic skills, educational and fieldwork experience

A letter explaining why you are prepared to dedicate 9 months of your life to this study.

The names and email addresses of 3 referees who are familiar with you and your work.

The date on which you would be available to start work in the Amazon.

Send this information by email to both of the Project co-ordinators, Prof. Tony Martin (boto@live.co.uk) and Dr Vera da Silva (vmfdasilva@gmail.com).

Closing date is 20 January 2018. Applications fulfilling the above criteria will be acknowledged within 4 days of the closing date, but there will be no further communication unless the applicant is short-listed. Short-listed applicants will be notified by 25 January latest.

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Cerrado por vacac... ¡por expedición al Amazonas!

¡Me voy al Amazonas!
Quería escribir un artículo contando todos los detalles, pero no me ha dado tiempo...¡Tendrá que ser a la vuelta! Todavía estoy intentando meter todo eso en la mochila 🤦

Te cuento lo básico:

Voy a participar como "Science Leader" en una expedición de la British Exploring Society, una sociedad creada en 1932 por un miembro de aquella famosa expedición a la Antártida liderada por el Capitán Scott (la de la canción de Mecano, jeje).

Desde entonces, esta sociedad lleva cada año a jóvenes de entre 16 y 25 años a lugares remotos y espectaculares de todo el planeta, para aprender Ciencia a través de la aventura.

El año pasado me enteré de que buscaban científicos aventureros para varias expediciones y cuando conseguí que la baba dejara de mojar el teclado, solicité participar. En diciembre me entrevistaron en Londres (una entrevista muy divertida, que incluía guiar una expedición por Hyde Park) y en Enero me dieron la grata noticia: ¡Me seleccionaban para la expedición al Amazonas!

Así que, desde enero, he estado yendo y viniendo a UK para hacer todo tipo de cursillos y pruebas (orientación, seguridad, primeros auxilios, escalada de árboles...). 

Brilliant weekend with British Exploring Leaders for our First Aid Training – one step closer to this summer’s expeditions! pic.twitter.com/jFBv7GoGKw

— British Exploring (@Brit_exploring) 16 de mayo de 2017

Personalmente, estoy muy ilusionado, ya que uno de mis héroes es Don Miguel de la Quadra Salcedo y, a mi manera y salvando las distancias, voy a seguirle los pasos! (quizá cambiando un poco Historia por Ciencia).

Voy a estar totalmente incomunicado durante cinco semanas, así que el blog estará de vacaciones hasta primeros de Septiembre (y el email me temo que también, miedo me da ver la bandeja de entrada a la vuelta...).

Si quieres seguir nuestras aventuras, aquí irán apareciendo algunas actualizaciones. El nombre de mi equipo (nosotros los llamamos "fires") es Q'ero. También puedes seguirnos en twitter (@brit_exploring) buscando el hashtag #BEAMAZON17

¡Nos vemos en septiembre!

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