Jungle Biomechanics Lab
Come experience the Peruvian Amazon Rainforest
Applications for 2024 are now closed. Stay tuned for updates on our future trips!
An NSF - IRES Funded Program (NSF 2246236)
Are you passionate about exploring the Amazon rainforest and learning to study the biophysics of organisms in the field? Look no further! We are thrilled to announce the "Jungle Biomechanics Lab," a fully-funded two-week program held in late summer/fall at Finca Las Piedras in the Peruvian Amazon Rainforest. We're seeking highly motivated undergraduate students, graduate students, or postdocs with interests in biology, engineering, physics, ecology, or mathematics.
During the program, you'll have the opportunity to learn field biology, biomechanics, and robotics from leading experts in the field. You will explore the Peruvian Amazon Rainforest at Finca Las Piedras, and model the biomechanics and robophysics of various vertebrate and invertebrate systems. The Amazon is the largest and most biodiverse rainforest on Earth, and you'll study fascinating systems such as ants, spiders, water striders, snakes, frogs, and more. You'll work alongside a diverse group of graduate students, collaborating and learning from each other to make groundbreaking discoveries at the intersection of biology, materials, optics, mathematics, robotics, physics, and engineering.
To apply, submit a one-page project proposal, a letter of reference from your PI, and a CV. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the Amazon rainforest, learn from experts in the field, and gain valuable skills for your future career!
What is this program?
This is a 2-week field research experience for early career scientists (from undergraduates to postdocs) funded by an NSF IRES grant. Participants will travel with other scientists for two weeks to do field research in the Peruvian Amazon rainforest. With help from a team of experienced field researchers, each participant will develop an independent research project they will conduct during the two-week field trip. During the experience, participants will learn how to conduct field research, collaborate with U.S. and Peruvian scientists and students, and participate in science outreach events with local Peruvian schools.
Applications for 2024 are now closed. Don’t worry, you still have an opportunity in future years!
Field trip dates: August 4 to August 18th, 2024
What do I need to apply?
1) Statement of interest - 1 page, include any potential project ideas you have and how this research experience would benefit you as a scientist.
2) Curriculum Vitae - 2 pages maximum.
3) Letter of Reference - From your direct supervisor, if possible.
Note: Non-Georgia Tech students are encouraged to apply but will need to make an account on our application portal.
Unfortunately, due to our funding source we are unable to accept applicants from outside of the United States.
Want to be notified when we release applications and deadlines, along with other news?
Learn more about our field site, Finca Las Piedras, below!
Read some Research articles on work done at Finca Las Piedras!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to pay for anything?
No! This is an all-expense paid program, we will cover flights, housing, and board for your two weeks in Peru!
Is it safe to travel to the Peruvian Amazon rainforest?
Our lab has been going to this field site for several years now and we work with several local organizations in Peru to ensure we operate as safely as possible!
Can we bring guests?
No, just you!
What if we have Dietary or Lodging Restrictions?
We will try our hardest to accommodate any sort of restrictions you may have! Please reach out to us so we can talk with the field station about any accommodations you may need.
Do we need Vaccines?
We recommend participants have the Yellow Fever vaccine, as well as standard vaccines and boosters. Malaria and Dengue are found in Peru; however, they are quite rare at the field station because it is far removed from populated areas.
What kind of equipment will we have access to?
Our lab regularly brings high-speed and high-definition cameras to the field. We also bring small lasers and particles for PIV and GoPros for behavior research. You will also have access to microscopes and 3D printers. We are also open to bringing other instruments if your research requires it! Talk with us about your research ideas and we will find a way to achieve your goals!