The Roger Tory Peterson Institute Research Associate Program is designed to broaden RTPI's scholarly base by recruiting outstanding scholars and graduate students as associate members of the Institute. RTPI recruits Research Associates having interests in natural history (or related fields e.g., ecology, conservation biology, wildlife biology), wildlife art, or environmental education.

Application Procedure

To apply as an RTPI Research Associate, the aspirant will:

1. Be nominated by a staff member, board member, another Research Associate, or themselves.
2. Submit an application form to be considered by the RTPI Executive Director or his appointee by email ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ), FAX (716) 665-3794, or regular mail (311 Curtis St., Jamestown, NY 14701).

Renewal Appointment is for one year. At the end of each year, the RA will fill out and submit a summary of activities, publications, presentations, and other evidence of professional service related to RTPI's mission, and, if appropriate, a request for renewal. On receipt of this summary, the Executive Director or his appointee will decide on whether or not to renew the appointment.

Responsibilities of RTPI Research Associates

1. Dues-paying members of RTPI.
2. Evidence of on-going professional activity related to the mission of RTPI (e.g., thesis work, publications, presentations, or grants).
3. Give at least one seminar annually at RTPI (if possible).
4. List RTPI as a collaborator in professional publications or presentations in which RTPI facilities, research areas, staff, or collections were used.