Independent Research
bring your research to the rainforest
Independent researchers from around the world conduct field-based research at Caño Palma Biological Station, contributing to long-term ecological data and conservation science.
We welcome independent researchers with original project ideas and a passion for field-based science. We host projects that complement and strengthen our long-term research while supporting researchers in pursuing their own unique questions. With established infrastructure, local expertise, and access to one of Costa Rica’s most biodiverse ecosystems, we provide an environment where independent research can thrive and contribute meaningfully to conservation science.
Graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and independent scientists are encouraged to apply.
A Platform for Independent, Field-Based Research
At Caño Palma Biological Station, independent research is embedded within a collaborative scientific environment. Researchers benefit from working alongside staff, interns, and visiting scientists while contributing to a growing body of long-term ecological data that informs conservation management at local and regional levels.
We are open to interdisciplinary and novel research approaches where they align with the station’s capacity and conservation priorities.
What we Provide
Independent researchers have access to:
Established research infrastructure at a fully operational field station
Local ecological knowledge and logistical support
Integration with ongoing long-term monitoring projects
Access to existing datasets where appropriate
Opportunities for collaboration with staff, interns, and visiting researchers
A supportive environment for conducting fieldwork in tropical conditions
Our aim is to ensure that researchers can focus on high-quality science while operating safely, ethically, and effectively in the field.
Exploring a collaboration
The first step is for you to review the work we’ve done so far and build an idea of the type of work that you would like to do at the station.
It’s often useful to review the individual taxa research pages on this website, associated research completed already, and draft some initial ideas before contacting the Station Manager (station@coterc.org) to arrange time to speak.
Ready to join us?
Frequently Asked Questions about Independent research
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We welcome graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, early-career scientists, and independent researchers with relevant field or research experience.
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We support field-based projects in ecology, conservation biology, marine and freshwater systems, behavioural ecology, and related disciplines. Interdisciplinary projects are welcome where they align with station capacity and conservation priorities.
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Yes. Independent projects should complement or strengthen our long-term monitoring programmes and contribute meaningfully to conservation science, while still allowing academic independence.
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Project length varies depending on research objectives, permitting requirements, and station capacity. Proposed timelines are reviewed as part of the application process.
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Yes. Researchers have access to station infrastructure, local logistical support, and opportunities to collaborate with staff, interns, and visiting researchers.
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All research projects must comply with Costa Rican permitting and ethical requirements. COTERC provides guidance during the application process to ensure projects meet regulatory standards.
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Submit a brief project outline using the Propose Your Research Project form. Proposals are reviewed on a rolling basis.