Lepidoptera Research Assistant

Our non-profit organisation working in the Peruvian Amazon is looking for a Research Assistant (RA) beginning in January; 2023.

RA’s play a key role in our Lepidoptera Diversity and Biology project; which aims to document butterfly and moth distribution and natural history at Finca Las Piedras and throughout south-eastern Peru. RA’s are responsible for daily data collection and management; collection of butterflies and moths; collection care and maintenance; Lepidoptera rearing; and writing reports and articles for publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals. RA’s; as well as all other ASA staff; also contribute to day-to-day operations and basic facilities management at Finca Las Piedras. Tasks may include; but are not limited to: preparation and serving of meals; basic cleaning of station facilities; group check-in and orientation; etc.

Those applying for this position should be mature; adaptable to a harsh working environment; and highly detail-oriented. This is also a residency position; and RA’s are expected to live and work on site at least 5 days per week.

The RA position is intended for recent graduates and other early-career biologists and/or conservationists who seek hands-on experience in tropical field research. RA’s work under the direct supervision of the Lead Lepidoptera Research Assistant at Finca Las Piedras; and closely with other ASA staff and project leaders; to support the ASA’s Lepidoptera projects in Peru. RA’s are part of the public face of ASA and are part of a dynamic team of researchers; conservation and development professionals; and students from Peru and around the world.

Upon arrival at Finca Las Piedras; RA’s undergo an intensive; two-week training period. Training includes an overview of the ASA’s research; reforestation; and education projects; as well as various professional development activities. Training continues informally throughout the duration of the RA’s time at Finca Las Piedras.

To apply; the following are required to apply for this position: a cover letter of interest; current CV/resume with contact information for two references; most recent unofficial university transcript. Completed applications should include each of the three required items; and should be submitted as a single PDF document; in the order listed above; by the application deadline (28 October; 2022). Document title should read: “last name”_“FRA Lepidoptera application”.pdf

Send completed applications to: info@sustainableamazon.org with “Volunteer Lepidoptera Research Assistant application” in the subject line.

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