BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION INTERNSHIP IN BRAZIL
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
HELP REVERSE THE CLIMATE CRISIS BY RESTORING THE BRAZILIAN ATLANTIC RAINFOREST
Develop a comprehensive understanding of biodiversity conservation and gain practical experience in ecological restoration as you live and work in one of the most biodiverse regions in the world. This is a fantastic opportunity to develop a wealth of conservation knowledge and skills whilst making a tangible impact for the climate crisis.
Founded in 1999, this organization takes a multifaceted approach to restoring and protecting the Brazilian Atlantic Rainforest. They run a range of projects proactively rebuilding the forest, restoring its ecosystems, and promoting sustainable development in local communities. Not only is the rainforest of vital importance to those living there, it is one of the most significant conservation areas on the planet. Home to a multitude of endemic and endangered species, learning to effectively protect and restore the Atlantic Rainforest will benefit biodiversity conservation the world over.
As an intern, you’ll assist their flagship reforestation project. With this project they aim to combat water shortages in the area whilst reversing the effects of the climate crisis globally through ecological conservation. Since their project has been active, they’ve planted over hundreds of thousands of trees and plan to reach 1 million trees planted by 2030.You’ll contribute to the project by helping with data collection, assisting with strategizing, planting trees, monitoring their growth, and tending to their seedling nurseries.
ORGANIZATION
Founded in 1999, Iracambi is an accomplished conservation and sustainability focused non-profit organization located in one of the world’s most biodiverse regions: the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. Their mission is to help reverse the effects of the climate crisis by restoring the rainforest.
They take a multi-faceted approach to this mission. Not only do they proactively plant their trees, they also work with local communities to create a paradigm shift by which the preservation and sustainable use of the forest is more attractive than its destruction. Among their projects are research into medicinal plants, huge-scale reforestation, and educational programs in local schools and communities. They’ve also hosted thousands of researchers, volunteers and interns and their alumni can be found in academia, business, the arts, and government across the world.
TASKS & REQUIreMENTS
Your work will be varied, hands-on research and development for their reforestation strategies. Due to the seasonal change, the focus of your internship will vary across the year. Between March and September, work will focus more on the nursery, and October through to March is when planting and monitoring takes place. You’ll need to be able to withstand the challenging climate of the rainforest, willing to get your hands dirty, and passionate about making a difference for the environment.
Responsibilities
- Plant trees and monitor their growth
- Take soil samples and analyze them in the lab
- Collect, process, and analyze data to facilitate the restoration of important rainforest ecosystems
- Help to maintain and develop their seed bank and seedling nursery
- Plan and strategize the logistics of tree planting operations
- Assist with the construction of nursery structures
- Maintain forest trails and access roads for local farms
Requirements
- Academic background or prior experience in agriculture, forestry, conservation, or related field is preferred
- Knowledge and understanding of the climate crisis and ecological restoration
- English language skills; Portuguese isn’t necessary but will come in handy when interacting with community members
- A passion for ecological conservation
- Willingness to get involved with a range of hands-on reforestation work
- Ability to withstand the difficult conditions of the rainforest
WHERE YOU’LL STAY
You’ll stay at the Research Center, located in the outskirts of the Serra do Brigadeiro State Park, 12 kilometers from the nearest city, Rosário da Limeria. Facilities at the center include accommodation for researchers, interns, and visitors, a computer lab, field laboratory, their multi-use Forest House, forest nursery, and systems of forest trails. You’ll either be in the main house or in one of their cozy cabins and take all your meals at their on-site restaurant.
Safety & Support
Safety & Support
Far from the big cities, it is extremely safe so you can relax and enjoy the the natural beauty on all sides. Make sure to visit your doctor and dentist for a check-up before yor internship and to get all the recommended vaccines and/or medications necessary to stay healthy. The organization is not located in a malarial area, but if you plan to travel to other parts of Brazil, such as the Pantanal or the Amazon, you will need a suitable prophylactic, which you can find in Brazil. Your doctor may also suggest Hepatitis B and Rabies, but you are unlikely to need them.
Though the organization takes precautions to ensure the safety of all interns and volunteers, they regret that they are not in a position to accept people with serious medical conditions or physical disabilities.
Communication
Communication
Free Wi-Fi is available at the accommodation for staying in touch with loved ones through WhatsApp, Facetime, etc.
Meals
Meals
All the meals will be prepared and served to you in the on-site restaurant. They also take recommendations for recipes so don’t be shy with sharing ideas and offering suggestions for meals. There also is a communal kitchen should you wish you prepare something yourself.
Location details
Location details
The center is located in the Atlantic Forest of Brazil that lies between Rio Grande do Norte and Rio Grande do Sul, stretching from the coast to the inland mountains. At an altitude ranging between 800 to 1300 meters, the forest’s vegetation and biomes have a great diversity including humid tropical forest, semi-deciduous tropical forest, low montane forest, and mangrove swamps.
DATES & RATES
Fee Breakdown
Available from June 2024. Internship start and end dates are flexible and will be discussed during the selection process.
What you’ll pay (2024 rates)
8 WEEKS USD 2,032
12 WEEKS USD 3,048
16 WEEKS USD 4,064
20 WEEKS USD 5,080
26 WEEKS USD 6,604
Inclusions
- Careful matchmaking. It takes time to find the right internship for each person, and we take this process very seriously.
- Initial interview with one of our team to gauge your skills, interests, and desired learning outcomes.
- An academic internship eligible for university credit. Check with your university to confirm if this internship qualifies for credit or alternatively we can assist you with purchasing transfer credits.
- Shared accommodation in the main house or one of the cabins (up to 4 pax)
- Wifi access
- Three meals a day
- Assistance with your visa arrangement & other preparations
- An orientation program with your supervisor
- Supervision & support during your stay
- Regular check-ins during your internship with you and your supervisor
- Troubleshooting if needed
- A reference letter at the end of your internship
Exclusions
- Flights to Sao Paolo / Rio de Janeiro (recommended)
- Bus & taxi transfers to the research centers
- Visa and medical/travel insurance costs for the duration of your placement – must include cover for repatriation
- Drinks, snacks, and items of personal nature (f.e. curios, gifts, clothing)
- Costs for additional excursions or activities
GALLERY
FAQs
Some of our most commonly asked questions for programs in Brazil.
What can I expect from an internship in Brazil?
What you can expect from an internship in Brazil is immense personal growth, as well as professional development. You’ll dive into a vibrant culture and expand your horizons through cross-cultural interactions. You’ll gain hands-on experience in your chosen internship while building a big network of contacts and mentors along the way!
How long can I do an internship for?
The minimum length of an internship in Brazil is two months, but the ideal length is closer to four months, or longer. This ensures you have the time to truly make a tangible impact during your time. However, our programs are customizable in length so you can apply for a summer, remote, hybrid, or gap-year internship!
Do internships in Brazil qualify for university credit?
Yes, but you must confirm with your university supervisor to approve this. It’s also possible to purchase transfer credits to add onto your internship experience.
Will I receive payment of any kind during my internship?
Unfortunately, there is no form of stipend for internships in Brazil. Your internship will be unpaid while working with the nonprofit organization, but there are multiple ways to fund your internship. Your experience will bring a wealth of new knowledge and the opportunities for professional and personal growth are invaluable!
QUICK FACTS
HIGHLIGHTS
- Gain international work experience in nonprofit ecological conservation
- Develop a comprehensive understanding of reforestation strategy and logistics
- Build close connections with local community members and farmers
- Make a tangible difference combatting the climate crisis
- Live and work in the Brazilian Atlantic Rainforest
HOW TO APPLY
If you’re ready to apply for this internship, here’s what to do:
APPLY
Fill in the application form (it will show in a new screen) which includes sharing your CV to us.
SPEAK WITH AN ADVISOR
We’ll set up a call with you to go through your application.
INTERNSHIP MATCHING
If we feel it’s a good match, we’ll set up a call between you and the supervisor for this internship.
PAYMENT
If everyone’s happy, we’ll provisionally confirm your placement! We’ll then send you the invoice for the deposit, getting started with the booking process and all the info you need.
CONFIRMATION
Only once we receive payment of the deposit your placement will be confirmed.
NEED TO MAKE AN ENQUIRY FIRST?
Or if you’d just like to ask us some questions about this internship first, just fill in the contact form below. We’ll be happy to assist!
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