CCES Biodiversity Action Plan Course Development Intern

Project Description

The Center for Conservation Education and Sustainability (CCES) of the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI) conducts research and monitoring to study, understand, predict, and integrate biodiversity conservation needs with development priorities of large infrastructure projects striving to be leaders in their areas of operation. Guided by the principles of the Convention on Biological Diversity, CCES has worked with a select group of oil and gas companies since 1996 to develop conservation and development best practices for conserving biodiversity and ecosystem services that benefit humans and wildlife. CCES in partnership with the Smithsonian –Mason School of Conservation (SMSC) is developing a “Conservation for Development Professionals Certificate” that focuses on best practices for biodiversity management for the private sector.

Internship Goals

The selected intern will have the opportunity to learn about the research activities of the Center and gain experience on a wide range of conservation elements that are incorporated in the center’s international programs. Learning objectives will include:

  • accessing and reviewing relevant literature and background information for the course such as biodiversity and ecosystem services, scenario planning, biodiversity monitoring programs, stakeholder engagement protocols, biodiversity management plans, green infrastructure, adaptive management, and others;
  • developing summaries of course content and structure, which include reading assignments and class exercises;
  • designing course presentations, handouts, and announcements
  • compiling case studies and course exercises;
  • assisting with course logistics; and
  • creating course evaluations and attending the professional course that will be launched in the summer of 2015

In the process of assisting with these projects, the intern will collaboratewith international organizations, government agencies, non-profit institutions, and/or university partners. The intern will have the unique opportunity to become familiar not only with the steps involved in developing and coordinating international conservation training programs, but also with the details of our ongoing and proposed field research programs.

Desired Qualifications and Abilities

We are seeking a highly motivated individual with the following qualifications:

  • an undergraduate degree or graduate in biology, conservation, education or related disciplines
  • excellent written communication skills, project management skills, and the ability to work independently
  • familiarity with the use of Microsoft PowerPoint, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, and experience using Microsoft Access and online library resources is preferred.
  • highly motivated, creative, and academically accomplished with ability to work independently.

Preference will be given to applicants with an interest in international biodiversity conservation from an education or training perspective.

Term of Appointment

Interns should be able to devote at least four days per week (eight hours a day) from January through August 2015.

Stipend

There is a stipend of $250 per week up to a total maximum of $7500.

Interns will benefit greatly from becoming a part of the Center for Conservation Education and Sustainability.

Interns are welcomed into an inviting atmosphere in which they work alongside professionals in the conservation field. Smithsonian interns receive museum shop discounts and free IMAX films and learn about the workings of the Smithsonian Institution and the National Zoological Park, with opportunities for behind-the-scenes access and tours.

This internship takes place in an office not only devoted to international collaboration and networking, but also reflective of this principle in the international origins of its personnel and interns. The interns’ work with notable scientists and conservation professionals within the prestigious Smithsonian Institution makes this experience a highlight on any resume. Attending internal lectures and workshops can also build interns’ knowledge bases and skill sets. Supervisors are dedicated to cultivating the space for professional development and are glad to write letters of recommendation and offer guidance as former interns progress academically and professionally.

Housing

Not provided

Location

Washington, D.C.

To Apply

To apply, go to: Then select “New to SOLAA? Create Account Here.” When you complete the information to create an account, you will see a screen where you select the type of appointment you are interested in. You will select:

  • Type of appointment: “Internship”
  • Unit of interest: “National Zoological Park”
  • Program: “National Zoological Park Internship Program”
  • Project: “SCBI – CCES-International Biodiversity Action Plan Course”

Information that will be requested (in SOLAA) includes:

  • Basic personal information
  • Resume or CV summarizing education (including current academic status) and employment experience.
  • A one-page statement of your interest in pursuing this position. The statement should mention relevant experience, career goals, your reasons for wanting this internship, and what you hope to gain from the experience. Your statement is very important during evaluations of applications.
  • Transcripts from your current and/or previous institutions. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
  • Submit a list of References with contact information
  • Schedule of availability

Your application is considered complete when you hit “Submit” and when all of your materials have been received and uploaded.