Rediscovering Lost Amphibians: Using eDNA to Detect Critically Endangered Frogs in Área de Conservación Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Amphibians are among the most threatened vertebrates globally, with many species feared extinct due to habitat loss and emerging infectious diseases. However, some populations may persist undetected in remote and biodiverse regions like Área de Conservación Guanacaste (ACG), Costa Rica. This project will harness the power of environmental DNA (eDNA) to rediscover critically endangered Neotropical amphibians, including harlequin toads (Atelopus spp.), stream-breeding tree frogs (Hylidae), and elusive Neotropical salamanders (Plethodontidae).

By collecting and analyzing water samples from pristine and historically occupied streams, we will identify traces of amphibian DNA, offering a non-invasive and highly sensitive tool for species detection. The project will refine eDNA sampling methodologies for tropical environments, bridging conservation science and molecular ecology to inform targeted conservation action.

This ResM project is run in collaboration with Área de Conservación Guanacaste and the Guanacaste Dry Forest Conservation Fund (GDFCF), ensuring strong local conservation impact. The successful student will gain expertise in eDNA techniques, bioinformatics, and amphibian ecology while working in one of the most ecologically significant regions of Central America. This project has direct conservation applications, helping guide habitat protection and management strategies to safeguard rediscovered amphibian populations.

Applicants should have a first or upper second-class honours degree in a relevant subject such as biological sciences, molecular ecology, conservation biology, or a related discipline. A relevant Master’s qualification is desirable but not essential.

This project is primarily laboratory-based, and applicants should have experience or a strong interest in molecular techniques, particularly environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis, PCR, and bioinformatics. Experience with DNA extraction, qPCR, metabarcoding, and sequence data analysis is advantageous. A background in amphibian ecology, conservation genetics, or freshwater ecology would also be beneficial.

The ideal candidate will be highly motivated, detail-oriented, and comfortable working with environmental samples in a molecular laboratory setting. Strong analytical skills and the ability to work independently while collaborating with conservation partners are essential.

If your first language is not English, you must meet the minimum English language requirements for the programme: an IELTS Academic score of 6.5 (with no less than 5.5 in each component test area) or an equivalent qualification.

If you wish to discuss this project further informally, please contact Dr Robert Puschendorf by email: robert.puschendorf@plymouth.ac.uk.

Please see our apply for a postgraduate research programme page for a list of supporting documents to upload with your application.

For more information on the admissions process generally, please visit our apply for a postgraduate research programme page or contact the Doctoral College .

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview 8 August 2025. We regret that we may not be able to respond to all applications. Applicants who have not received a response within six weeks of the closing date should consider their application has been unsuccessful on this occasion.