Volunteer/Unpaid Internship

About the role

COPROT is seeking Research Assistants for its sea turtle conservation program at three nesting beaches on the Osa Peninsula, on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. During the nesting season, these beaches host approximately 7,000 olive ridley nests, around 250 green turtle nests, and sporadic nesting by hawksbill and leatherback turtles, making this one of the most active solitary nesting areas in the region.

Responsibilities

• Standardized nesting beach monitoring and data collection
• Collaborate with a long-term conservation and research program
• Communicate in English or Spanish (preferably both)
• Be physically fit and able to live in basic and isolated field conditions
• Show strong communication and team-building skills
• Show a positive mindset and a desire to learn

Requirements

• Academic training or experience in biology, ecology, or conservation
• Previous experience with sea turtles is welcome but not required
• Minimum commitment of three months from June 2026 to January 2027

Qualifications

• Ability to communicate in English or Spanish (preferably both)
• Physical fitness
• Ability to live in basic and isolated field conditions
• Strong communication and team-building skills
• A positive mindset and a desire to learn

Skills

• Communication skills
• Teamwork skills
• Positive attitude
• Desire to learn

Benefits

• No monetary compensation
• One-time contribution of USD 150 for food and accommodation (Costa Rican nationals are exempt)

Pay

N/A

Schedule

Research assistants are accepted from June 2026 to January 2027, with a minimum commitment of three months.

Benefits

• No monetary compensation
• One-time contribution of USD 150 for food and accommodation (Costa Rican nationals are exempt)

Contact Information

To apply, applicants should send a CV and cover letter to research@tortugasdeosa.org. Applicants for earlier start dates will be prioritized, while recruitment will continue for later positions.