Updated with 2025 Season Dates:
Research and monitoring of sea turtles in Tortuguero, Costa Rica was initiated in the 1950´s by legendary sea turtle researcher Dr Archie Carr. Dr Carr continued his work in Tortuguero until his passing away in 1987 and the Sea Turtle Conservancy continues to conduct annual programs at the site, making it the longest ongoing sea turtle conservation and monitoring program in the world. Research Assistantship (RA) positions are voluntary and are available for both leatherback and green turtle seasons. Selected RAs are expected to plan and finance their own travel to and from Tortuguero, but will receive board and lodging at the STC Field Station for the duration of their time working for STC in Tortuguero. Nesting season runs March through November. RA dates are split into June – August, and August – November.
Since 2003, STC has worked at important Panamanian sea turtle nesting beaches in the Bocas del Toro Province and the Comarca Ngäbe Buglé, from the Changuinola river to the Chiriquí river. Within this region STC has standardized monitoring, research and protection efforts in collaboration with members of communities close to the nesting beaches. Research Assistantship (RA) positions are voluntary. Selected RAs are expected to plan and finance their own travel to and from Bocas del Toro, but will receive board and lodging at the STC Field Station for the duration of their time working for STC in Bocas del Toro Region. Nesting season runs March through September. RA dates are split into March – June and June – September.
Since 2003, Anne and Peter Meylan have worked in partnership with the Sea Turtle Conservancy (STC) to monitor important Panamanian sea turtle nesting beaches in the Bocas del Toro Province and the Comarca Ngäbe Buglé, from the Changuinola River to the Chiriquí River. Key among these beaches are three in the Bastimentos Island National Marine Park (BINMP), Small Zapatilla Cay, Big Zapatilla Cay and Playa Larga. Up to 6 research assistants are needed to help with this work.
Position combines green turtle monitoring and research activities with an education and outreach program in the local community. Positions are voluntary and is available for both leatherback and green turtle seasons. Selected person is expected to plan and finance their own travel to and from Tortuguero, but will receive board and lodging at the STC Field Station for the duration of their time working for STC in Tortuguero. Nesting season runs March through November. RA dates are split into March – May, May – June, June – August, and August – November.
Sea Turtle Conservancy
