Amphibian Research and Husbandry Internship
We are not currently accepting applications for this internship.
The Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute’s (SCBI) Center for Animal Care Sciences and Center for Species Survival are offering a three-month internship to assist with an ongoing study of climate change impacts on salamander physiology and the daily husbandry needs of a diverse assemblage of amphibians and reptiles.
This internship will be located at the National Zoo in Washington, D.C.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Assist with lab-based investigation of salamander metabolism and immune function.
- Communicate conservation science to visitors at the Reptile Discovery Center.
- General cleaning, exhibit maintenance, diet preparation, and feeding amphibians and reptiles.
Desired Qualifications and Abilities
This is an unusual internship and will require a highly motivated individual who is comfortable working in both animal care and academic environments. A successful candidate will have:
- A strong desire to help sustain Earth’s biodiversity.
- At least two completed years of undergraduate coursework, including at least two labs.
- A willingness to work in hot, humid environments.
- Excellent communication skills.
- Experience working with amphibians, reptiles or fish, an interest in vertebrate physiology, immunology and/or climate change science; or experience with cell culture and sterile laboratory technique are all helpful qualifications.
Term of appointment
This three-month internship will begin February 1, 2012, with potential for extension up to one year. The intern will work 30-40 hours per week, with a roughly equal split of his or her time between research and animal husbandry.
Stipend
These are unpaid positions and interns are responsible for all living expenses. We will give strong support of the applicant’s pursuit of college credit for experience gained during this internship.
Housing
he intern is responsible for his or her own lodging in the D.C. area.
We are not currently accepting applications for this internship.
