CES International Tropical Field Studies Programme

International Tropical Field Studies Programme in Wildlife, Ecology, Conservation & Culture – Sri Lanka

Experience conservation beyond the classroom while contributing to meaningful conservation action in Sri Lanka.

Programme Overview

Monitor wild elephant herds. Document tropical biodiversity. Engage with local communities. Experience conservation beyond the classroom while contributing to meaningful conservation action in Sri Lanka.

The Centre for Eco-Cultural Studies (CES) invites students, graduates, researchers, and young professionals from around the world to participate in an immersive field-learning experience within one of Asia's most remarkable biodiversity and cultural landscapes.

More than an internship, this programme provides opportunities to engage directly in wildlife conservation, ecological research, environmental education, community engagement, cultural heritage, conservation communication, and applied field studies.

For more than 25 years, CES has worked at the intersection of wildlife conservation, biodiversity research, environmental education, cultural heritage protection, and community-based conservation. Participants gain exposure to real-world conservation challenges while developing practical skills, professional experience, and intercultural understanding.

Whether your interests lie in wildlife conservation, ecology, environmental science, GIS mapping, anthropology, conservation communication, filmmaking, environmental education, or community engagement, CES offers opportunities to learn, contribute, and grow while working alongside conservation practitioners, researchers, educators, local communities, and media professionals.

Why Choose CES?

Unlike many conventional volunteer or internship programmes, CES provides opportunities to participate directly in active conservation, research, education, and community-based initiatives.

CES At A Glance

More than 25 years of conservation and research experience
Active elephant monitoring and conservation programmes
Long-term biodiversity documentation initiatives
Proposed Kalavava National Park conservation programme
Wildlife crime monitoring and conservation advocacy
Community-based conservation and coexistence initiatives
Indigenous and local knowledge engagement
Nature TV Sri Lanka conservation media platform

Five Signature Experiences

1. Wildlife Monitoring Experience

Gain practical experience in elephant monitoring, biodiversity surveys, camera trapping, habitat assessments, species documentation, and ecological field research within tropical ecosystems.

2. Wildlife Filming & Nature Documentation

Work alongside Nature TV Sri Lanka to document wildlife, conservation activities, environmental stories, and community initiatives through photography, videography, digital storytelling, and conservation communication.

3. Cultural & Community Learning

Experience Sri Lanka beyond tourism through direct interaction with local communities, eco-cultural landscapes, traditional livelihoods, and intercultural exchange.

4. Wildlife Crime Monitoring & Advocacy

Gain insight into wildlife protection efforts through exposure to wildlife crime monitoring, conservation advocacy, habitat threat documentation, rescue-assistance mapping, and awareness initiatives.

5. Indigenous & Local Community Engagement

Explore traditional ecological knowledge, community-based conservation approaches, and the relationships between people, landscapes, culture, and wildlife.

Internship Subject Areas

Wildlife & Conservation Science

Wildlife Conservation & Applied Field Research
Elephant Ecology & Behaviour Monitoring
Human–Wildlife Coexistence Studies
Tropical Ecology & Biodiversity Studies
GIS & Conservation Mapping
Wildlife Crime Monitoring

Heritage, Culture & Community

Eco-Cultural Heritage Studies
Archaeology & Heritage Studies
Anthropology & Sociological Studies
Indigenous & Local Community Studies

Media, Education & Sustainability

Wildlife Photography & Field Documentation
Nature & Environmental Digital Media
Environmental Education & Community Outreach
Conservation & Legal Advocacy
Sustainable Tourism & Conservation

Life at CES Field Bases

CES Sigiriya Field Research & Training Centre

Located within a biodiversity-rich landscape near Sigiriya World Heritage and Wildlife Sanctuary bordering Minneriya - Girithale Nature Reserve.

CES Sella Base Camp (Yala Block III)

Located on the edge of the Yala National Park landscape providing immersive field experiences and conservation learning.

What Will You Gain?

Wildlife monitoring and ecological field research techniques
Biodiversity assessment and tropical species identification
GIS applications and spatial conservation mapping
Conservation communication and environmental storytelling
Community engagement and environmental education
Cross-cultural communication and teamwork skills
Professional networking within conservation sectors

Who Can Apply?

Applications are welcome from undergraduate students, postgraduate students, researchers, recent graduates, conservation enthusiasts, and young professionals.

No prior field experience is required, but applicants should have adaptability, curiosity, and passion for conservation and field learning.

Internship Fees & Costs

Duration	Contribution
1 Month	USD 650
2 Months	USD 1,250
3 Months	USD 1,800
Registration & Administration Fee	USD 100

What Is Included?

Shared accommodation at CES field research bases
Three daily meals
Project-related local transport and field logistics
Field supervision, mentoring, and training
Access to research facilities and approved equipment

Additional Costs Not Covered

International airfare
Airport transfers
Visa fees
Travel and medical insurance
Personal travel and recreational activities
Personal field gear and incidental expenses

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need previous field experience?

No previous field experience is required. CES welcomes individuals from diverse academic and professional backgrounds.

How long can I stay?

Typical placements range from one to three months. Shorter academic tourism visits are also accepted.

Can I undertake independent research or thesis work?

Yes. Participants may conduct approved research projects subject to university and ethical requirements.

What should I bring?

Bring suitable field clothing, hiking shoes, sun protection, medications, laptops, and optional camera equipment.

Where will I stay?

Participants stay at CES field facilities including Sigiriya and Yala field stations with simple and immersive accommodation.

Will I receive a certificate?

Yes. Participants who successfully complete the programme receive a Certificate of Participation from CES.

Can I receive university credit?

Many participants use CES placements for academic credit, internships, dissertations, and thesis support.

How physically demanding is the programme?

Activities vary and may involve walking in tropical environments, wildlife observation, outdoor data collection, GIS work, or media production.

Apply Now

Please complete our application form to secure your placement in the upcoming field batch.

Open Application Form

For further information or partnership inquiries, please contact CES through the enquiry option within the form.

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