Information for Researchers

Choosing a Research Area

Research priorities can be found on the Research Projects page, but other research areas may be considered. Iwokrama will favour any research projects that contribute to our understanding and management of the Iwokrama Forest, including sustainable development of resources.

Making Contact

Please consider making contact with Iwokrama regarding your proposal.  It will be important to establish a link with the staff person working most closely in your prospective area of research.  That will be the person to whom you will also submit your Iwokrama Research Application.

Please remember that any visits to the Forest or related transportation and accommodation needs must be arranged in advance of your arrival. Contact the Ecotours and Visitor Information office as possible to ensure we can discuss all your expectations and needs.

Collecting Data

The Geographic Information Science (GIS) Unit of Iwokrama stores all spatial data concerning research at Iwokrama. Potential independent researchers are strongly encouraged to take steps to spatially-enable their data; such as utilising Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers and integrating such data with other observations from the field. Every research project may not lend itself to geo-referencing, so please talk to the GIS Unit when planning your project.

Collaboration

Collaboration is a cornerstone of Iwokrama's work.  Therefore, we encourage research projects to utilise University of Guyana (UG) undergraduate students as field research assistants and/or UG staff as collaborators/co-investigators. Of course this may require counterpart funding. Iwokrama can assist by helping to find appropriate partners from UG.

Research Knowledge and Technology

Iwokrama considers technology and knowledge transfer to be a critical element of its scientific work. A major part of Iwokrama's mission is the dissemination of lessons learned at Iwokrama such as knowledge and technology developed through or used in Iwokrama research.

Dissemination of these types of information is accomplished through seminars, printed materials, the website, media relations and other means. Researchers are strongly encouraged to schedule short seminars at the Iwokrama Field Station, Headquarters and/or on the UG campus (e.g. on previous related work, preliminary findings). Iwokrama can assist you in such presentations. 

Finally, all researchers must provide Iwokrama with a copy of any research reports generated as a result of Iwokrama Forest research projects. Other related reports will gladly be accepted and made available in our Centre's Library and/or at the Field Station.

Forest Visitors

Visitor Guidelines are still evolving and therefore subject to change. However, they are based on safety, health, consideration of other visitors and local communities, respect for indigenous culture, general good citizenship - and of course, forest conservation.

Budget

Please note that Iwokrama cannot provide funding for researchers, including costs associated with your visit to the Forest.  Please refer to the Ecotours and Visitor Information for current rates and services available.

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

Please refer to EPA guidelines for scientific research.  You may also be required to obtain a permit or discuss other issues about your research with this agency - more information about these items on the Iwokrama Research Application.