*FundaciÃf³n Para La Tierra* is searching for talented and hardworking research interns to join our team in Paraguay for 3 to 6 months. Our internship program provides young biologists an opportunity to step out of the classroom and into the field, gaining hands-on experience running a research project of their own design. Before arriving, our interns are challenged to come up with a research topic, review the relevant literature, and create a methodology with the support of our intern-supervisor. Once in-country, interns are trained in the field techniques required for their project. Whether it’s mist-netting for birds in the early hours of the morning, fishing at mid-day or staying out late hunting for frogs, PLT will make sure that our interns are confident in the methodology needed to move their research forward. Towards the end of the
stay, all our interns give a final presentation in which they share the results of their study with the rest of the research team. The internship program is designed to give young scientists the opportunity to take control of every step of a scientific project. From conception to completion, our interns are in the driver seat.
When was the last time that you were given the opportunity to choose what you wanted to study?
At Para La Tierra, we specialize in training young biologists in the skills they need to enter further education or the job market. Based in Paraguay, the “heart of South America” we are the country’s only year-round research station. Over the past 10 years, we have published over 130 peer-reviewed articles and discovered a few new species for science. Along the way, over 1,000 interns have helped contribute to the better understanding of Paraguay’s understudied habitats.
Our research base is located in the city of Pilar, a beautiful location in the south of Paraguay, and the gateway to the ÃfÂ’eembucÃfº Wetland Complex (NWC). The NWC is composed of a mosaic of habitats, including grasslands, marches and humid Chaco. Deep forests lining the rivers and streams running through the area are bursting with wildlife, while river monsters the size of small cars lurk in the murky waters.
Come discover for yourself what Paraguay has to offer!
Our interns finish the program taking away a long list of newly learned skills, a professional reference, and one heck of an experience to share at their next interview. But they also leave behind a great deal. All of our intern projects are directly involved in conserving this threatened
habitat. The scientific investigations of the area help raise awareness of the ecological importance of ÃfÂ’eembucu at both the national and international levels. The most successful projects are published in scientific journals, further raising the profile of Paraguay, and many
interns make their way onto the author line for the first time in their early careers through their work with Para La Tierra.
The application period is rolling and there are no start or end dates, so the trip can be organized to suit the project and the person. Interns must be available to stay for a minimum of three months.
Applicants must be over 18 years old and have or be working towards a degree in a biology related subject. Conversational English is required. To apply please email your CV to paralatierra.py@gmail.com.
Costs âÂEUR” $925 per month for the first two months and $875 for each subsequent month.
Para La Tierra charges interns to cover costs of room and board. The price includes all living costs during their stay with us. Interns receive three meals a day, a bed in shared accommodation with hot showers and access to WiFi. The fee also covers the use of PLTâÂEURÂ(tm)s scientific equipment, minor administrative costs associated with the stay, and a small contribution to Para La Tierra’s conservation and education projects.
Do not hesitate to visit our website (Para La Tierra) and social media pages, and to contact us if you are interested in this unique opportunity!