The Reptile Discovery Center at the Smithsonian's National Zoo is seeking an amphibian husbandry intern. This position requires a minimum of two years college experience in the biological sciences, good observation and communication skills and a commitment of 16 hours per week (may include weekends). This is an excellent opportunity to gain valuable research experience in a controlled setting with a group of imperiled amphibians.
This is an unpaid internship opportunity wherein the intern will support the Department of Animal Programs -- Reptile Discovery Center. Through this internship, interns will:
- Learn basic animal husbandry alongside professional animal care staff, including exhibit maintenance, preparing food, making water changes, making and recording observations, general facility maintenance, proper sanitation of all work areas and assisting with environmental enhancements.
- Develop good communication with project leaders and other staff.
- Learn formal and informal interpretive educational programs for visitors.
- Learn and follow all safety protocols and policies of the unit.
- Learn USDA and AZA guidelines, NZP directives, procedures and protocols and other related literature.
- Gain knowledge to pursue publication of their project results at the end of their internship.
- Strong preference will be given to current students or recent graduates pursuing a career in a related field.
- Ability to work both independently and in a team environment with staff and volunteers
- Strong communication and public speaking skills
- Ability to stand, stoop, climb, and lift up to 50 pounds
- Flexibility and a good sense of humor
- Must have a current negative TB test.
- Available to assist a regular schedule, that may include weekends and holidays
Summer (May through August). Summer session application deadline April 1, 2019.
To apply, go to: https://solaa.si.edu. Select "Don't have an Account? Create An Account." Complete the information to create an account.
Information that will be requested (in SOLAA) includes:
- Basic personal information
- Professional resume or CV
- 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 application evaluations
- Transcripts from your current and/or previous institutions. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
- Degrees held or expected.
- One letter of reference.
- Schedule of availability.
Once you create your account and provide the information above, 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: Rock Creek - Reptile Discovery Center
IMPORTANT: Your application is considered complete when you hit “Submit.” Your SOLAA-submitted application with references must be received by the deadlines as noted above.
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Email Matt Evans at evansmj@si.edu for further information about this internship.