Traveling for field work is common in the fields of ecology, physiology, and evolutionary biology. Surveys indicate that sexual harassment or assault is a significant risk during field work-related travel, especially for women and students (Clancy et al 2014). To reduce this risk as much as possible, this website informs researchers of their rights and responsibilities during field work-related travel. It is intended for researchers at all career stages. We hope the information on this site is useful for everyone, and we encourage feedback and suggestions for other links or information that could be included.

Questions to address when planning for field travel

What are the sleeping arrangements?

  • In the UCI Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (EEB), all students, postdocs, and technicians have the right to separate sleeping quarters if preferred.
  • If funds are only available for shared rooms, EEB members may request matching funds by contacting Kathleen Treseder.

What are our options for telecommunications? Will there be cell phone coverage?

  • UCI EEB has a departmental satellite phone with coverage in all areas of the globe. Department members can reserve it by contacting the EEB front office.

Who can we contact for emergency help?

For visits to UCI field stations: What is the field station Code of Conduct? What are the guidelines for responding to sexual violence or harassment at the field station?

Will I have someone to accompany me in remote field locations?

  • Members of UCI EEB can request matching funds for field assistant travel if existing funding only covers travel for one person. Contact Kathleen Treseder.

If I require emergency travel back home, what are my options?

What food will we be eating, and how will dietary restrictions be accommodated?

Where will we get the food? Drinking water?

Who will prepare the food?

What do I need to bring for this trip (e.g., clothing and shoe recommendations, personal camping gear, personal laptop, etc)?

Is there a schedule of activities?

Will there be free-time or days off?

What time will measurements generally begin and end?

What, if any, costs am I expected to cover? Any/all food? Any travel costs?

What first aid materials will we be taking? Are they appropriate for the work and site conditions?

Do I need my own sunscreen or bug repellent?

Will we experience any of the following fieldwork conditions?

  • Poisonous or dangerous animals (including humans) or plants
  • Extreme climatic conditions – hot, cold, dry, wet
  • Strenuous activities – heavy lifting, long hikes to field sites
  • Heights – climbing trees or cliffs, steep slopes
  • Operating dangerous equipment – chainsaws, mowers, tractors, large trucks, chemicals
  • Language requirements

 

Links

Contact information for US Embassies/Consulates and their emergency services to support those traveling abroad

Links to travel warnings from the US State Department and other information about risks of sexual assault and violence by region

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s link to vaccines recommended for international travel

Resources available for responding to sexual assault or harassment during field travel

 

Credit: Thanks to Kate McCulloh, Ken Keefover-Ring, and Alison Scott for developing much of the content on this page