MSU Extension & Urban Wildlife Information Network job/intership/apprenticeship

We were once again awarded an MSU Extension Apprenticeship grant to bring on a sophomore or junior level student for the summer of 2022. The focus of the paid position will be building upon the pilot work for our project called Visualizing the Story of Wildlife In Our Cities that our two apprentices began last summer. This project is in partnership with the Urban Wildlife Information Network. Key Points • Paid 10 weeks. • A blending of research and Extension by developing and conduct an applied research project and then disseminate to various professional and community audiences. This year’s project focus will be the development of the second phase of a digital community engagement tool using ArcGIS Story Map® to tell the story of how the city’s natural and cultural history has shaped the current wildlife community within it. Conduct primary research, including collecting, processing, analyzing, and synthesizing current and historical natural resource and cultural data (e.g., documents, imagery, maps, and other data sources) to inform the narrative of the Story Map. Under guidance from the mentor and national and local partners, build-out the public facing portion of the community engagement tool by creating original content through writing, photography, videography, and other data visualization products. • Funding provided for attending conference to present projects up to one year after project conclusion. • Gain real-life experience not only in research but also in education program development and community engagement practices including the Mississippi Master Naturalist Program, and more. Application Due Date is FEB 14th 2022 and is found here: https://msudafvm.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6EeVbgppXz2HWey Title: Visualizing the Story of Wildlife in our Cities Duration: 10 weeks (May – August 2022, depending on the student’s academic schedule) Compensation: $4,000 stipend (minus taxes), plus job-related travel reimbursement Minimum age: 18 Minimum requirements: ● Enrolled in a four-year accredited college or university in a course of study related to wildlife conservation, biology, environmental studies, environmental education, science communication, journalism and/or natural resource fields with interest in the integration of these disciplines. ● Completed sophomore year prior to the start of the program. ● NOT eligible to graduate prior to December 2022. ● Minimum GPA of 3.0 based on a 4.0 scale at the time of application. ● U.S. citizen, national, or permanent resident. ● Willing to travel (regionally and possibly internationally) and occasionally work flexible hours outside of a traditional M-F, 8-5 schedule. ● Valid driver’s license and reliable personal vehicle. Preferred qualifications: ● Good creative and technical writing and communication skills. ● Experience with storytelling and related methods. ● Experience in developing public education and outreach digital products. ● Experience with web development and associated programming. ● Strong understanding of ESRI products including ArcMap® and ArcGIS StoryMaps®. Physical requirements: ● Daily work primarily will be in the office or at data repositories (e.g., MS History and Archives building) compiling and synthesizing data. ● Opportunities to assist with field work and instruction requires good physical condition and willingness to work in typical southeastern US field conditions, including high temperatures and humidity and biting insects (proper field work safeguards will be implemented including using insect repellent and wearing appropriate protective field clothing). ● Occasionally the ability to lift and carry heavy objects (up to 40 pounds) moderate distances via cases or in a backpack could be needed. Apprenticeship Description: ● Contribute to the development of the second phase of a digital community engagement tool using ArcGIS Story Map® to tell the story of how the city’s natural and cultural history has shaped the current wildlife community within it. ● Conduct primary research, including collecting, processing, analyzing, and synthesizing current and historical natural resource and cultural data (e.g., documents, imagery, maps, and other data sources) to inform the narrative of the Story Map. ● Under guidance from the mentor and national and local partners, build-out the public facing portion of the community engagement tool through creating original content through writing, photography, videography, and data visualization products. ● Develop and deliver a professional training on how to use this community engagement tool in other cities to improve wildlife education. ● Assist the mentor in conducting the 2022 Central MS Master Naturalist Program and shadow at civic group meetings, field days, and client consultations. ● Obtain appropriate professional certifications and exposure to local, regional, and national wildlife and other education based professional networks. ● Maintain a reflection journal outlining apprenticeship experiences. ● Develop and present a poster or presentation at an industry-related conference or professional meeting identified by the Extension mentor. Other Information: This apprenticeship is based in and around the Jackson, MS area. Housing is not provided. However, program administrators may be able to assist you in finding an affordable place to live. For specific questions about this undergraduate apprenticeship opportunity, please contact: Dr. Adam Rohnke, Urban Wildlife Extension Specialist Mississippi State University Adam.rohnke@msstate.edu 601-857-2284 (office) Application Process: Online application due by 11:59 PM on February 14, 2022. Required documents include: ● Unofficial transcript and resume ● Two external letters of recommendation (at least one from a faculty member) ● Writing or media sample demonstrating storytelling/public communication skills.