Field assistant – Gabon Canopy Amphibians Expedition 2024

An opportunity is available to participate in field research related to the vertical stratification of amphibians and reptiles in the rainforest of Gabon: ~August-November 2024. The primary activity of this assistant will be to use arborist access techniques to conduct nocturnal canopy surveys for amphibians and reptiles. The research assistant will gain knowledge and field experience working on a unique project addressing the impact of climate change and chytrid fungal disease on tropical frogs. This project is part of the postdoctoral research of Dr. Edmund Basham, at the University of Texas at Austin. The position is unpaid.

To get an idea of what we will be doing, see this documentary here. https://youtu.be/aFakaVx5eFQ?si=60XwxIw4L7xxujuy

Duration of project: 

Field research runs from ~ August – November 2024. 

Requirements for applicants:

• MOST IMPORTANT: Physically fit. – This will be a challenging but very rewarding project involving active surveying of forest canopies at night – which can be very difficult. There will be long periods camping deep into the forest without cell service, you will be bitten by insects, you will be hauling heavy gear up hills and across streams, that is to say, there are dangers and risks inherent in this kind of fieldwork. It is important that you are aware of how hard this will be because it would take the opportunity from someone else if you decided to leave early. I can confirm however that the food is always great and plentiful – though rustic!.
• Arborist/rope climbing experience strongly desired/required: we will be conducting canopy surveys using standard arborist techniques. Having a second climber will double the potential data collection for the project which is the primary reason for this advert.
• BSc or working towards a BSc in Environmental Sciences (Biology, Zoology, Ecology or related field)
• Field experience – tropical forest and amphibian experience will be prioritized.
• French language skills. Working in Gabon which is a French speaking nation, it will be very useful to have an assistant with fluency in French and English.

This project will be a good fit for a recent graduate with a gap year ahead of them and a strong desire for adventure.

In-country project expenses will be paid but flights, visas and insurance may need to be covered by the applicant. However, this is not set in stone so don’t let it stop you from applying.