Researchers
Conduct Research with Fundacion Cordillera Tropical
A fundamental part of Fundación Cordillera Tropical's mission is to promote the study of tropical montane and páramo ecosystems, their flora and
fauna, and how local people use and manage their natural resources. We
welcome researchers interested in biology, anthropology, or sociology
to study the tropical montane systems within the 96,000 hectares of the
Nudo del Azuay.
Guidelines for Researchers
As a researcher, it is your responsibility to obtain the appropriate permits for conducting research in Ecuador from the Ministry of Environment. While working with Fundación Cordillera Tropical, we require that you conduct yourself in a professional manner, and ask that you acknowledge Fundación Cordillera Tropical in any publications stemming from your research. You are expected to provide us with copies of publications that result from your work, as well as species lists or other baseline data collected that will help future researchers. Finally, it is your responsibility to provide a copy of all information collected to rural stakeholders of your study area.
Liability and insurance
Researchers that work with Fundación Cordillera Tropical are required to carry personal health and accident insurance that covers any injuries or illnesses sustained while in Ecuador. Conducting field work in the high-altitude, rugged Tropical Andes will require that you to be in good physical condition. Researchers should consult their local physician or travel health agency to obtain necessary or recommended vaccinations for travel and work abroad.
Travel
Researchers are in charge of securing transport to and from project sites, and must assume all travel costs, though Fundación Cordillera Tropical can provide you with a list of reliable drivers. There are no public buses or public transportation to/from sites.
Costs
Researchers are responsible for their own housing and living expenses in Ecuador. At the present time, we do not offer grants or other financial support for researchers.
Application Procedure
Students and scientists interested in conducting research with the Fundación Cordillera Tropical should submit a letter of interest using our contact page. Please include the following information in your letter of interest: full name, title of proposed research and one-page abstract, CV, and arrival dates.
While we will consider proposals on any relevant topic, we particularly encourage research which will aid us in making management decisions within the landscape. We encourage study of the Andean Bear, tropical montane forest dynamics in primary and secondary forests, studies of avifauna, and the relationship between tropical montane forest conservation and water quality.
Fundación Cordillera Tropical will contact you within 2 weeks of receiving your research application to discuss your project in further detail.