The Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute provides the opportunity for an intern to gain experience with the study of the ecology and conservation of threatened Virginia turtle species. The intern will assist with two projects. The first is an ongoing population monitoring project examining the distribution and status of wood turtle (Glyptemys insculpta) populations across northern Virginia. The second project is an ongoing study that is part of a multi-state grant to determine the status and distribution of spotted turtles (Clemmys guttata) across their range. The intern will assist with aquatic visual encounter surveys, trapping, and radio-telemetry. They will also assist with report preparation and outreach activities to promote conservation in the Commonwealth.
Data Management
The intern will assist with data collection, data entry, and data analysis for both spotted turtle and wood turtle projects.
Public Outreach
The intern will assist with public outreach opportunities including working with collaborators and stakeholders as well as presenting research to varied audiences.
Learning Objectives:
This is a paid internship opportunity wherein the intern will support the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute. Through this internship, interns will gain experience with
- Standardized sampling techniques and monitoring protocols
- Radio-locate turtles and manage GPS data
- Provide technical assistance to stakeholders
- Complete a required brief report at the conclusion of their tenure
- Manage large monitoring datasets for multiple species of turtles
Qualifications:
Candidates should have graduated from a college or university within the last 12 months and have undergraduate coursework in ecology, conservation biology or a closely related field. Knowledge and field experience with ecology and conservation issues is required, as well as the ability to devote long hours in cold and wet conditions in remote field settings. Candidates should take directions easily and work well with others, yet have the ability to work independently. Individuals with previous mark-recapture and aquatic survey experience, and spatial data management and analysis skills (e.g. GIS) are especially encouraged to apply. Applicants should have plans for continued education or a career in ecology or conservation.
Stipend:
The stipend is $700-900 per month (dependent on education level, coursework and skills).
Housing:
Housing is provided at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute in Front Royal, Virginia.
Term of appointment:
This is a six-month internship, starting September 16, and is a full-time appointment (40 hours per week) with opportunity for renewal of a longer period at the end of term.
Application deadline(s):
Review of applications will begin on July 22, 2019 and will continue until position is filled.
Status: Open
Location: Front Royal
How to Apply:
Please send a CV/resume and cover letter describing your qualifications, career goals, and what you hope to gain from the internship to Jessica Meck at meckj@si.edu. TypeTurtle Ecology Internshipin the email's subject header.
For Additional Information
Questions about this internship should be sent to Jessica Meck at meckj@si.edu.