Organization for Tropical Studies: Las Cruces Biological Reserve and Wilson Botanical Garden
San Vito, Coto Brus | Costa Rica
Costa Rica-007
Las Cruces Biological Station manages land for resource conservation, research and education. The station protects a watershed, native vegetation, and works to contain areas of livestock and agricultural development. It is home to the Wilson Botanical Garden. Interns participate in station research projects and educational activities. Completion of 2nd year Spanish required.
Internships Details
About the Organization
The Organization for Tropical Studies (OTS) is a consortium of more than 60 scientific research centers and universities. OTS was founded to provide leadership in education, research and the responsible use of natural resources in the tropics. OTS owns and operates three biological stations in Costa Rica, including the Las Cruces Biological Station & Wilson Botanical Garden.
The Las Cruces Biological Station owns one of the largest remaining forest fragments in the region. With ~200 hectares of primary forest and over 50 hectares of adjacent secondary forest, the fragment is home to over 2,000 native plant species. The area is protected for resource conservation, scientific research and education.
Las Cruces also manages the 10- hectare Robert and Catherine Wilson Botanical Garden (JBW) with over 5,000 plant species from all over the world. In addition to research, the station offers a "Garden to School" educational program providing students at all levels a hands-on learning experience about the scientific method, ecosystems biodiversity, forest dynamics, and much more. The Station also has an environmental outreach with local community groups.
Job Description
Interns participate in station research projects and educational activities. Among the research projects are: native species research in primary, old growth forest lands; restoration and recovery of native species in degraded areas especially pasturelands; reestablishment of native tree species; and, management of the Wilson Botanical Garden.
Illustrative intern activities could include: 1) environmental monitoring of forest recovery in former pastures (e.g. monitoring plots and documenting natural regeneration of primary and secondary forests; micro-topography; soil sampling, biodiversity monitoring) 2) monitoring species dispersion and impact from the Wilson Botanical Garden; and 3) bibliographic research and compilation related to station activities. Suggestions for other activities may also be requested. Educational activities focused on developing and delivering applied instruction in the forest and garden to elementary, high school and university students is another option for interns.
Intern assignments are designed to be do-able with a minimum of equipment and high-level knowledge. Interns who bring knowledge of pertinent methodologies or other applicable skills will be encouraged to apply. Interns will be supervised by the Resident Biologist or, in some cases, principal investigators in various projects.
# of Positions per term
1
Start Dates
Beginning of any academic term
Duration of Internship
minimum of 10-12 weeks; more preferred
Qualifications
Academic Background
Masters or Bachelors degree students in biology, environmental sciences, environmental education, botany, zoology, sustainable resource management, forestry or horticulture.
Skills/Experience
Previous fieldwork and preferably field research experience (although not necessarily in tropical areas). Experience collecting field samples preferred. Interns should be open to differences in physical, institutional and cultural environments, and have the physical capacity to undertake outdoor work in a tropical area. If an intern has significant experience in GIS, there are options to work in this area.
Language Ability
On-station work requires a basic proficiency in Spanish equivalent to two years of university level study. More is better. Interns working in educational outreach generally need a higher level of fluency.
Other Requirements
Willingness to work outdoors.
Internship Costs
Total costs vary depending on how long you plan to be abroad, where you will be living, your personal spending habits, and current exchange rates. The following estimates will give you a ballpark figure for this internship. Get help with the math from our handy Cost Calculator.
IE3 Program Fee
The program fee* for the first term of any internship is $2950 - $3150. You do not pay tuition in addition to the program fee. Visit your University's IE3 page for details, costs for additional terms, and campus administrative fees.
*The program fee noted above reflects the anticipated fee increase that will go into effect for the Fall 2010 term and will apply to all terms thereafter.
Estimated One-Time Expenses
| Expense Type | Price |
|---|---|
| International Travel | $800-$900 |
| Visa Fees | |
| Recommended Immunizations |
*See Additional Cost Information below.
Estimated Monthly Expenses
| Expense Type | Price/month |
|---|---|
| Housing | $990 (room and board)* |
| Food | included |
| Local Transportation | $25 |
| Recreation | $50 |
| Personal Expenses | $25 |
Compensation
none
Additional Expense Information
*Housing is located at the station. Room and board (three meals) costs approximately $33 per day, which amounts to about $990/month. A large house on the property is now a very comfortable dorm with high speed internet access, phones and a satellite television. The dining room has a magnificent view over the valley. An additional $100 per month is suggested for incidentals and other local expenses.
Last Updated on Aug 12, 2008