Nature Reserve & Biological Station
Research Traineeship
Internship Project in Tropical Ecology, Animal or Plant Biology
Description
Advanced biology students are welcome to conduct a research traineeship at the biological station Un poco del Chocó. While investigating their own research project, students gain a solid understanding of scientific methodology and develop practical field research skills that prepare them for future academic work (e.g., a bachelor’s or master’s thesis).
The traineeship is especially recommended for graduate students. Advanced undergraduates with a strong interest in designing and conducting their own project are also welcome.
Students who have previously participated in the Tropical Biology Internship and wish to extend their stay may transition into a research traineeship, provided they are academically prepared and able to work with a higher degree of independence.
Contents
During a research traineeship, interns primarily focus on their individual research project while also contributing to ongoing research activities at the station. Students are supervised by Nicole, who supports them in planning, implementing, and analyzing their investigation. Research trainees are expected to take responsibility for organizing and conducting their fieldwork largely independently.
At the end of the traineeship, students submit a written report in publication style presenting their methods and results.

The first step to conduct your own research project in the reserve is to find a suitable research topic for your project. You can either study a topic related to our own biological field work in the reserve or come up with your own research ideas.

At the beginning of your traineeship you will be required to plan your data collection and write a proposal. Besides discussing ideas with Nicole, you can use your first few days at the reserve to explore, to get familiar with your research topic/organisms and the field conditions.

At the end of the internship, you will analyze the data gathered during your field work, draw conclusions and finally write your research report about your findings.

The first step to conduct your own research project in the reserve is to find a suitable research topic for your project. You can either study a topic related to our own biological field work in the reserve or come up with your own research ideas.
Internship fees 2026
This internship can last between 8 and 24 weeks. Costs depend on the duration of stay.
Duration of stay Fee in US $
8 weeks 3200 $
any additional week 325 $
What's included?
The fee for an internship covers the costs for food (three meals per day), lodging in a double room (bunk bed), use of the station’s facilities and WiFi, the lab, library and research equipment, professional supervision and training.
What's not included?
Airfare, travel and health insurance, snacks, visa fees, transport to the reserve, laundry service, weekend trips
Dates 2026
You can complete a research traineeship all year round. You can start an internship preferably on the first Monday of each month. The minimum stay for a traineeship is 8 weeks.
I had a wonderful time at the station!! It was pleasant and rewarding!In the five months I stayed at Un poco del Chocó I learned a lot...
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Ilse, Netherlands












