Biological Research Volunteer Programs Abroad

From ecological preservation, assisting with animal research, or even providing support for disease research, volunteering in biological research abroad has a myriad of options to take you all over the world. With a broad choice of applications and locations, every experience is different, but biology volunteer work abroad centers on the unique opportunity to donate your time and knowledge to deserving projects in need of extra hands, minds, and smiling faces.

Biological Research - See where you can help now!

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Frequently Asked Questions

The US is the most popular location for biological research initiatives. In their famous universities their institutions offers world-class research facilities and excellent technology that fosters collaboration and innovation.

Generally, international volunteers do not get paid. They typically cover their own expenses, such as travel, accommodation, and food, and volunteer their time and skills for a cause or organization they are passionate about.

As a biological research volunteer abroad, you will have the opportunity to obtain hands-on research experience, learn new skills, broaden your cultural awareness, and make a beneficial impact on the environment and local populations.

Latest Program Reviews

Best experience

May 14, 2025by: Rebekka Grueter - SwitzerlandProgram: Endangered Species Conservation in South Africa

I spent two fantastic weeks here as a volunteer. The lodge was spacious and beautifully furnished. Everything was extremely well organized. The guides, Christian and Fabio, are extremely knowledgeable about animals, their behavior, and nature. I always felt safe with them. Picking us up at the airport went well. Even when we had to change lodges due to heavy rain, they organized everything perfectly, and we were in safe hands. The chef, Tomy, was fantastic and always treated us to delicious food. The atmosphere was always great and very friendly. I recommend volunteering with Fabio and Christian to everyone. They are planning to open a new lodge. I'm sure it will be great. So You'll have a fantastic experience.

Best experience

May 14, 2025by: Rebekka Grueter - SwitzerlandProgram: Endangered Species Conservation in South Africa

Really fun!

May 10, 2025by: Xin Huang - United StatesProgram: Medical Volunteers Needed—Work in Costa Rica!

This was a great experience, especially since it was the first time outside of the country. Helping the elderly, but I kind of wish I did more medical work, even if it was like taking vitals and other work like that. Overall an enjoyable experience.

A Guide to Volunteering Abroad in Biological Research

Prepare for Volunteering

Understand the benefits

Volunteering in biological research abroad will change your scope of the world. While learning biological concepts in the classroom is certainly valuable and necessary, nothing can top authentic first-hand experience in a new and exciting environment—here are just a few highlights.

Hands-on learning. Wherever you are—laboratory or out in the field—lending a hand is a humbling experience, and one that can teach you new research skills, ways of communication, and different methods of thought.
Diverse experiences. Whether in a laboratory or out in the field, lending a hand is a humbling experience, and one that can teach you new research skills, ways of communication, and different methods of thought.
Personal and professional growth. Between all of the experiences and hands-on time in this experience, there’s so much opportunity for growth in all regards. The experience is a great boost on any resume or CV.

Things to know

If you’re pursuing a career in biological research after graduation, a summer volunteer trip or even volunteering for one to three weeks during a school break can work in your favor when it comes to the eyes of your employers.

Visa and paper requirements - Before you head out, double-check what visas and documents you need. Embassies, airlines, and your program are great places to get the most up-to-date info.
Language skills - It’s always a good idea to learn a few basic phrases, even if it’s not required. It helps with introductions and locals will appreciate the effort.
Cost and logistics - Do a bit of research on living costs and transportation so you can plan your budget. It’s smart to have backup copies of documents and extra funds, just in case.
Health and safety - Make sure you're up to date on any health rules and get the recommended vaccinations. It’s always better to be safe and prepared.
Cultural and social etiquette - Take some time to learn basic social norms and greetings. Being open to new experiences and respectful of customs will go a long way!

Choose a Location

Choosing a location for your biological research abroad may be the most challenging aspect of planning your trip, as there is no shortage of locations in which active biological research takes place.

South America

Biological research done in Brazil, Peru, and Colombia in the Amazon rainforest includes the identification of rare plants and animals, predator research, and a once-in-a-lifetime chance to discover one of the world’s most biodiverse areas. Biological research abroad can be completed through conservation efforts, private institutions, or with government organizations; all of which are popular options in South America.

Asia

The tropical climates of Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos draw in many biology volunteers. Marine conservation on the coasts is a valuable experience that can expose you to unique oceanic habitats and associated rare inhabitants. Some species in the rainforest of Southeast Asia have been damaged or changed by recent natural disasters as well, so biology volunteers in these areas will have the distinctive experience of helping rebuild habitats or study the effects of natural disasters on the environment. Whether in the sea or on land, Asia has plenty of opportunities to volunteer in biological research while learning about life halfway across the world.

Africa

South Africa or Kenya has biological volunteering at animal sanctuaries, including researching treatment and rehabilitation, feeding, and daily lives, which appeals to animal lovers or those looking to become veterinary researchers. Biology volunteers in Africa can also aid in the development of environmentally sustainable policies to shape the way these countries interact with their environments as they grow, or volunteer in a medical facility to help with public health education, spreading important information about how biological research and health issues affect all species.

Getting started

Volunteering in biological research abroad will broaden your perspective on the world, making it an experience well worth considering. To get started, here’s the process you’ll need to follow to make it happen:

1. Get matched

Our Online Advisor can match you with volunteer opportunities in real time and email them to you.

2. Choose a program

If you’d like to bookmark those while looking around, sign up for or log in to a MyGoAbroad account. There you can save those programs, compare them side by side, and much more.

3. Choose how long to stay

If you’re also deciding on how long to stay, know that any amount of time makes an impact and is helpful to the programs offered!

1-12 weeks. If you’re excited and interested in volunteering abroad but unsure of what you want to do or not able to stay for long this option is excellent. Various programs aren’t longer than 12 weeks and provide a great base of biological research volunteering programs.
3-12 months. For those who know what they want or have more time to spend volunteering, this time frame is awesome. These options can be done within a break or holiday period, or even paired with a study abroad option. Spending a handful of months volunteering lends to a much more comprehensive introduction to the area of work and the country.
1+ year. If you have a year or more available to volunteer, there are many great places to go. This option can lead to great relationships within the program and community, networking opportunities, and even job prospects—depending on the area of volunteer work.

4. Funding & scholarships

If you are curious or need some financial aid, check out and fill out our scholarship and deals application to see what’s available to you!

5. Apply

After you've found a program you're excited about, just click "Inquire Here" or "Apply Now" on the program page to get started. Once you've applied, a program coordinator will reach out with more information.

6. Get your essentials

Once all of that is finished, and you’ve been accepted into a biological research volunteer position, it’s time to apply for your passport and visa, book your flight, and buy travel insurance.