Fellowship Information - Belize Foundation for Research & Environmental Education

The BFREE Science and Education Fellowship Program

From working with our conservation efforts to learning valuable career skills, BFREE offers meaningful experiences for Belizeans to increase their knowledge and set themselves up for success.

The Fellowship program is a two-year immersive paid training opportunity for Belizean junior college graduates in the fields of wildlife conservation, agroforestry, and biological park management.

Further Details

Participants are mentored alongside professionals in their field and complete studies through both a learning-by-doing and academic curriculum. Fellowship graduates continue on to achieve advanced degrees through a BFREE scholarship program, with the intension to pursue career paths in natural resource management and sustainable development.

As Fellows, they learn all aspects of the general operations of their assigned program and are additionally responsible for data collection, research and reporting. The Fellows also have the opportunity to work directly with visiting researchers and field course groups from Belize and abroad.

Fellowship Focal Areas

Wildlife Conservation

Although the main opportunity is working with the critically endangered Central American River Turtle, the Hicatee, a broader scope of wildlife conservation is explored in this fellowship.

Agroforestry

With a focus on wild heirloom criollo cacao discovered at BFREE, this fellowship delves deep into sustainable agroforestry practices and increasing knowledge about this rare shade loving forest relic.

Communications & Admin

From marketing and graphic design to administration and human resources, nature-focused non-profit organizations require a dedicated team working in the field and behind the scenes.

Becoming a BFREE Fellow

Are there fellowships currently available?

Fellowships applications are accepted from March to May for start dates in June and July. We have two to three openings each year that offer paid training for Belizean junior college graduates in wildlife conservation, agroforestry, and communications & administration. Learn more from under job opportunities.

How long are the fellowships?

Fellowships last two years with preferred start dates beginning in June or July of each year. Fellows live at the field station and follow the regular staff work schedule which is 10 days on and 4 days off.

Where do fellows live while at BFREE?

Fellows are provided with shared cabin accommodation and three freshly cooked hot meals per day. Learn more about visiting BFREE.

What is the application process?

Applications are due by May 15, 2025. Successful applicants will be required to interview via phone and then in-person. Applicant finalists will be invited to spend one trial week of work to determine suitability for living and working at BFREE.

How to Apply

To apply, email Heather Barrett at jobs@bfreebz.org. The following complete information is required to be considered:

Letter of interest and description of relevant experience with a paragraph detailing why you believe you can be successful in a remote, jungle environment
Two letters of recommendation
Official copy of transcript for college/university degree received
Copy of social security card

A Day in the Life of BFREE Fellow

Each day fellows work in their assigned areas learning all aspects of the general operations of their assigned program and are additionally responsible for data collection, research and reporting. Skill building opportunities such as professional writing, public speaking or chances to learn and practice wildlife photography, are offered to increase each fellow's future success. Fellows also interact with students, researchers, and other visitors from Belize and abroad. Outside of assigned work and skill building, fellows get to enjoy the beautiful reserve, the Bladen River, delicious food, and wonderful company.