Conservation and Research Advisor
Project Description
The Galapagos Conservancy Foundation in Ecuador has requested the support of a Peace Corps Response Volunteer (PCRV) to serve as a Conservation and Research Advisor. The Galapagos Conservancy Foundation promotes and carries out activities for conserving the habitat of the Galapagos Islands, as the region has already been impacted by climate change. The Galapagos Conservancy Foundation seeks to apply science to guide the restoration of existing giant tortoise populations and land iguanas by working directly with park rangers in monitoring activities in the tortoises' life areas and in the management of the breeding center in captivity and private farms. The Foundation is planning to invest a greater effort in the San Cristobal Island where there are ten different populations of tortoises, and where the greatest number of threats to these populations still persist.
The PCRV will work alongside a multidisciplinary team and will contribute to the standardization of procedures, data analysis, technical training of Galapagos Conservancy staff, park rangers, and local population. The Conservation and Research Advisor will work with the Conservancy Foundation team and the park rangers of the Galapagos National Park on expeditions to the tortoises' life areas to monitor daily activities of tortoises and provide technical and operation assistance. The goal of this project is to provide assistance for managing the care and feeding activities of giant tortoises and strengthen the management of turtle sponsorship sites.
Candidates selected for this position will be arriving in Ecuador together as a group, so while the departure dates for the whole group could change, dates cannot be changed for individual candidates.
Partner Information
Galapagos Conservancy Foundation
Required Skills
• Bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology, zoology or related field
• Knowledge of scientific research in biology, ecology, zoology
• At least intermediate to advanced Spanish
• At least 2 years of experience in conservation projects with a focus on biology
• Work experience in environmental education and material design for interpretation
• Experience working with interdisciplinary and multicultural teams
• Ability to work under pressure
• High tolerance for ambiguity and high level of flexibility
The Peace Corps embraces and leverages the diversity of its volunteers as a reflection of America's diversity. Peace Corps Response is committed to reflecting the diversity of the United States in the professionals we send into the field to support the mission of world peace and friendship. Applicants with diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
Serving in Ecuador
Learn more about the Volunteer experience in Ecuador: Get detailed information on culture, communications, housing, health, and safety -- including health and crime statistics -- in order to make a well-informed decision about serving.
Medical Considerations
Before you apply, please review Medical Information for Applicants to learn about the medical clearance process.
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