Independent Researcher

INDEPENDENT RESEARCHER

Independent researchers define and conduct their own research. We welcome research on a wide variety of biological and environmental topics, as well as projects on the social aspects of environmental conservation. Many independent researchers are under- or post-graduates, and some are professionals who want to step out of their current work environment or pursue a specific research goal.

Our Publications show the range of topics that researchers have pursued while at Cloudbridge.

Please note: if you aim to publish your findings in peer-reviewed journals, please contact research@cloudbridge.org at least 6 weeks prior to arrival to organize your research permit.

A minimum 11 week commitment is required for most independent researchers.  Shorter commitments will be considered, provided the research proposal demonstrates how the research objectives will be achieved in the proposed time frame.

Researchers from McGill University/Borderless World Volunteers conducted a socio-environmental study and taught local women how to make salsas to supplement their income.
Researchers from McGill University/Borderless World Volunteers conducted a socio-environmental study and taught local women how to make salsas to supplement their income.

How it works

Researchers work largely independently on their projects while at the reserve. Cloudbridge staff are available to assist with planning your research by providing background information and in-depth knowledge of the conditions and biology in the reserve. Staff will also work with you to determine if there are any resources or assistance the reserve can provide (i.e. general equipment such as ropes or tools, or providing an assistant for field work).

Researchers are typically expected to contribute approximately one day a week helping with reserve work. For example, researchers may greet visitors at the Welcome Center (a good time to do data entry or other computer work), or assist with lab maintenance.

Volunteer-Soil-Chemistry
Testing soil chemistry to study the effects of non-native cypress trees.

Being given permission to conduct independent research in the reserve includes the following conditions:

  • Submit a short proposal of your study within 10 days of arrival.
  • Give a presentation to Cloudbridge staff and volunteers on your research in the middle and at the end of your stay.
  • Submit a research report with a detailed methodology section prior to departure.
  • Upload a copy of any raw data to the Cloudbridge shared Google Drive prior to departure. This enables any data collected on the reserve continues to benefit the reserve after your departure.
Tropical forestry researcher planting seedlings in a study plot.
Tropical forestry researcher planting seedlings in a study plot.

Independent researcher requirements:

  • Academic or practical experience in floral or fauna research
  • Physically capable and willing to walk up and down steep hills in all types of weather
  • Self motivated, with good timekeeping, record keeping, and ability to meet realistic deadlines
  • Comfortable living in a close knit community
  • 20 years or older
  • Able to fund your food and accommodations for the duration of your stay
  • Commit to a minimum of 11 weeks (unless you can demonstrate that you project will take less time)
  • Responsible for renewing your visa, if staying longer than 90 days
One of our former resident biologists documenting amphibian species to update the Cloudbridge species lists.
One of our former resident biologists documenting amphibian species to update the Cloudbridge species lists.

Apply

To apply, please fill and submit the Volunteer/Research Application.

Accommodations and Costs
Housing is provided at $18 USD per person per day for stays 12 weeks and over. This includes Wi-Fi, hot showers, shared bath, shared kitchen and unlimited access to all of the reserve (research trails, public trails and off-trail). For stays between 4 to 12 weeks, the fee is $20 per day and for stays less than 4 weeks, it is $24 per night.

Food costs and cooking are the responsibility of the individual volunteer/researcher, most of whom can eat a basic, mostly vegetarian diet for around $8 USD per day.  Most people stay in shared rooms, although accommodations in our private casitas may be available (subject to current occupancy) for an additional fee. Housing fees are paid in full upon arrival or one month in advance, to the Cloudbridge Manager.

A $200 “good faith” fee is required prior to being accepted as a volunteer or researcher. This fee will be credited toward your accommodation fees for the last 2 weeks of your stay. The fee is payable through the Donate page.

Please note that our intake day is Sunday, meaning you will only be able to be picked up and join the rest of the participants on Sundays. Please plan your trip accordingly.

Questions? Contact research@cloudbridge.org.

Please visit our blog site for monthly updates and photos on our volunteers and researchers, their projects, and other activities at Cloudbridge Nature Reserve.