Research Opportunity: Native Freshwater Fish Conservation in Northern Sinharaja Buffer Zone

Organization: Rainforest Protectors Trust

Location: Northern Sinharaja Rainforest Buffer Zone, Sri LankaDuration: 3–4 monthsAccommodation: Free accommodation providedFinancial Support: Stipend to cover food and other living expensesAre you passionate about freshwater biodiversity, fish ecology, and rainforest conservation?

Rainforest Protectors Trust is looking for a self-motivated individual for a field research project to document and help conserve native freshwater fish species in the Northern Sinharaja Rainforest Buffer Zone, Sri Lanka.Sri Lanka's freshwater ecosystems support unique aquatic biodiversity, but the distribution of native fish populations, the condition of their breeding habitats, and the conservation needs of individual streams require careful investigation.This project offers an opportunity to conduct hands-on field research while contributing to the conservation of freshwater ecosystems associated with one of Sri Lanka's important rainforest landscapes.Key Responsibilities1. Freshwater Fish Surveys and Distribution MappingSurvey rivers and streams in the Northern Sinharaja Buffer Zone.Identify and document native freshwater fish species.Record species distribution and relevant habitat characteristics.Maintain systematic field records, photographs, and survey data.2. Identification of Spawning and Nursery HabitatsInvestigate potential fish spawning and nursery sites.Document habitat conditions and signs of breeding or juvenile fish presence.Assess and report the current conservation status of identified sites.Highlight threatened or degraded habitats requiring urgent conservation attention.3. Research Documentation and ReportingOrganize and analyze field observations and survey data.Prepare a final research report documenting findings, priority conservation sites, and recommendations.Contribute research information that can support Rainforest Protectors Trust's freshwater conservation and environmental education initiatives.We welcome applications from motivated individuals with a background or strong interest in:Environmental Science or Environmental BiologyFreshwater Ecology or Aquatic BiologyZoology, Ichthyology, or Fisheries ScienceBiodiversity Conservation or Wildlife BiologyRelated fields of biological and environmental researchApplicants should be enthusiastic about fieldwork, careful species observation, scientific data collection, and nature conservation. Experience identifying freshwater fish is mandatory.The ability to work independently and collaboratively in natural forest and stream environments is important.What we provideFree accommodation at the Rainforest Conservation and Education Center in Weddagala, Sri Lanka.A stipend to help cover food and other living expenses during the project.An opportunity to gain practical freshwater ecology and biodiversity survey experience.A chance to contribute to research supporting the conservation of native freshwater fish and their habitats.Transportation: You must have a mode of transportation (preferably a motorbike) for travel between sites. Project Base CampRainforest Conservation and Education CenterWeddagala, Sri Lanka📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/BuJRc1raHA3RH3iC7Email your CV with Cover Letter to RainforestProtectorsTrust@gmail.comYou may also message via WhatsApp +94 717187677