The Reptile Discovery Center (RDC) at the National Zoo’s Conservation and Biology Institute (NZCBI) is opening internship opportunities for the fall Semester 2022. The RDC is seeking an intern to learn about day-to-day husbandry of reptiles and amphibians as well as observe, record and analyze animal behavior. This internship requires a bachelor’s degree (or working towards a bachelor’s degree) in the biological sciences and have good observation & communication skills. We are requesting a minimum of 16 hours per week (days and hours are negotiable).
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 observing, recording and analyzing animal behavior.
Learn alongside professional animal care staff about basic animal husbandry; including cleaning exhibits, preparing food, general exhibit maintenance, providing enrichment, assist with animal demos and training, and assisting with environmental enhancements.
Learn formal and informal interpretive educational programs for visitors.
Learn and follow all protocols and policies of the unit.
Learn USDA and AZA guidelines, NZP directives, procedures, and safety protocols.
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 to observe, record and analyze animal behavior
- Learn alongside professional animal care staff basic animal husbandry including cleaning exhibits, preparing food, general facility maintenance, and assisting with environmental enhancements
- 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
- Strong preference will be given to graduate students or recent graduates pursuing a career in a biological 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 50 pounds.
- Flexibility and a good sense of humor!
- Must have a current negative TB test.
- Available to participate on a regular schedule, that may include weekends.
A three-and-a-half month internship is available for the fall (Sep-Dec); spring (March-.-June); summer (June-August). Interns should be able to devote 16 hours per week. Reasonable exceptions may be made in order to coordinate with University or work schedules.
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
- 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