Volunteer Environmental Scientists needed in Ghana

Volunteer at work

This volunteer environmental science project conducts research and analysis of soil, plant water and fertilizer samples in Kumasi.

Like many African countries, the extraction of precious stones and minerals is an activity rooted in the long history of Ghana. Unfortunately mining creates some environmental problems, such as leaving large degraded areas that need to be reforested or turned into farmland.

Here you will find answers to the following questions:

How can volunteer environmental scientists help in Ghana?

What will I gain from this project?

What will Projects Abroad PRO provide?

What skills or qualifications do I need?

How do I apply to join this project?

How can volunteer environmental scientists help in Ghana?

As a volunteer environmental scientist you can use your knowledge and training to help local staff. You can work on tasks such as:

• Working with a team of scientists undertaking field work, including the collection of soil samples from a range of environments.
• Performing laboratory work such as testing samples for soil fertility.
• Following-up analysis by providing fertilizer and management recommendations for various crops (corn, rice, cocoa, oil palm, vegetables, etc).
• Monitoring the level of soil and food crop contamination due to heavy metals in mining communities.

Providing recommendations for managing soil contamination.

Volunteer at work

You will be working with staff from the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), based in Kumasi. It has a mandate to carry out research and biological analysis on soil, plant, water and fertilizer samples.

Much of your work will take place in a laboratory. You will also perform fieldwork and help educate Ghanaian farmers on how to improve their crops.

You will be expected to work around 30 hours per week, from Monday to Friday.

This project runs all year round so you can join at any time. You decide how much time you can spare and we will help you get the most out of it.

What will I gain from this project?

You will have the opportunity to work in one of the friendliest countries in West Africa and gain a unique insight into a topical environmental issue. There is also ample opportunity to work with other liked mined professionals and share best practice.

You will spend time in a completely new environment, learning about a different culture and way of life. Ghanaians and other volunteers will want to hear about your life back home and your family and friends. We call this ‘cultural exchange’ and we think it helps our volunteers gain a new perspective on life.

What will Projects Abroad PRO provide?

We have over 19 years’ experience of running volunteer projects. We provide you with the following support to make sure your time in Ghana is successful and enjoyable:

• Safe accommodation with a Ghanaian family close to your project.
• Friendly and dedicated local staff available to help 24 hours a day.
• A member of staff to meet you at the airport when you arrive.
• Comprehensive medical and travel insurance.
• Social events with other volunteers such as trips into the local town.

What skills or qualifications do I need?

If you have completed at least a Bachelors Degree in Biology, Environmental Science or a related subject then you are perfectly suited to this project.

Please contact us if you think your knowledge may be useful on this project but do not have the required qualifications.