Frequently Asked Questions

Thank you for your interest in joining the lab!

Spots are currently available! Students may complete the application form if they meet the following eligibility and participation requirements:

• Be currently enrolled in or have completed at least one of my courses: Animal Behavior, Primate Behavior, or Directed Research.
• Commit to participating in the lab for at least two semesters, as training requires considerable time and effort.
• Once trained to collect data, be able to visit the Gladys Porter Zoo at least twice per week.
• Have their own reliable transportation and be able to drive themselves to and from the Gladys Porter Zoo in Brownsville.

What Happens Next

• After you submit the application form, eligible students will be contacted to schedule an interview. The interview will help determine whether the student is a good fit for the lab and can meet the participation requirements.
• Interviews will be scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis, according to both waitlist order and eligibility.

Important Note

Please do not submit the application form unless you meet the course eligibility requirement. If you are not currently enrolled in and have not completed one of the courses listed above, please register for one before applying.

You need to commit to at least two semesters in the lab, as training requires significant time and effort. There is no maximum time limit—you're welcome to stay as long as you like, and extended involvement is encouraged!

No experience is needed! We will train you in everything you will need to know. We are looking for hard-working students who are committed in collecting data.

Psychology and Biology students are preferred, but if you are still interested, please contact Mrs. Martinez to discuss potential opportunities.

Once you are trained to collect data, you must visit the zoo at least twice per week. We will work with your school and work schedule to assign zoo visits on the days you are available. The zoo is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., giving you flexibility when selecting your data-collection days.

Thanks to our collaboration with the zoo, our research volunteers can enter without charge. Upon arrival, please check in at the front office and remember to sign out once your work is completed. You'll be given a lab badge, which must be worn throughout your data collection. DO NOT let other people in for free. You will be kicked out of the lab and be written up.

Welcome to our lab! We are a collaborative, student-focused research group committed to the ethical and professional study of animal behavior. To maintain a productive, respectful, and inclusive research environment, all lab members—whether trainees, students, or senior researchers—are expected to follow these core expectations:

• Treat all team members with respect, regardless of their role or experience level.
   
• Accept feedback with maturity and openness—constructive criticism is part of the learning process.
   
• Disrespectful behavior, including eye-rolling, sarcasm, or dismissiveness, will not be tolerated.
   

• Be attentive during training sessions. Do not use phones or other devices while being instructed or while others are speaking.
   
• Arrive on time, prepared, and ready to participate fully in lab activities and discussions.
   

• Ask questions! We encourage curiosity and critical thinking.
   
• If you are unsure about a method or decision, raise it respectfully at an appropriate time.
   
• Follow communication protocols (e.g., group messages, emails) and respond in a timely manner.
   

• Follow all research protocols and data collection methods as trained—these are in place for a reason and support the scientific integrity of our work.
   
• Any suggestions for changes must be discussed and approved before implementation.
   

• You are responsible for your behavior, contributions, and growth as a researcher.
   
• Failure to meet these expectations—especially repeated disrespect, failure to follow protocol, or disregard for training—may result in dismissal from the lab.
   

By participating in this lab, you agree to uphold these expectations and contribute positively to the research environment.

We do not offer transportation. You must provide your own. 

Yes! You can volunteer even if you are not a student anymore.