Hiring Organization:
Smithsonian National Zoological Park
Date Posted:
2012-07-21
Position Description:
Studying and understanding primate behavior is essential to the overall assessment of their welfare. Currently, the National Zoo is studying regurgitation and reingestion (R/R) behavior in gorillas and orangutans, and how it may be related to diet, feeding techniques, husbandry, and behavior. Interns will collect and summarize data on R/R behavior using observational research and the scientific method.
Duties and Responsibilities
-The intern’s main duties will focus on behavioral research in either gorillas or orangutans
-Collection of data related to regurgitation and reingestion (R/R) behavior, under different experimental conditions
-Secondarily, interns may be asked to assist with husbandry duties such as cleaning animal enclosures, preparing enrichment, monitoring the O line, and general facility maintenance.
-Learn and follow all safety protocols and policies of the Primate Unit
Qualifications/Experience:
-Bachelor’s degree (or current student) in a related field such as Zoology, Biology, Anthropology, Wildlife Science, Psychology, etc.
-Experience in conducting behavioral research, and knowledge of research techniques preferred, but not required
-Ability to work a regular schedule, 3-4 days a week, from 7-3:30
-Ability to work both independently and in a team environment with staff and volunteers
-Strong communication, writing, and problem solving skills
-Flexibility and willingness to adapt to new routines quickly
-Upon acceptance, interns will be required to provide proof of a negative TB test within 6 months of start date as well as a current tetanus shot
Salary/funding:
This is an unpaid, volunteer position
Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging)
Interns will make their own living arrangements in the Washington, DC metro area
Term of Appointment:
Interns should be able to commit to 6 months minimum
Application Deadline:
Monday, August 6th, 2012
Comments:
To apply, please send the following materials in one email to the Primate Intern Coordinator at BaniaA@si.edu
-Cover sheet including name, address, phone number, email address, and schedule of availability
-CV or resume describing education, employment, and research experience (if any)
-A one page statement describing 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. Please note, your statement is very important during application evaluations.
-A list of three references (at least one academic), and their contact information. Please also indicate how long you have known each and in what capacity.
Contact Information:
Amanda Bania
P.O. Box 37012 MRC 5523
Washington, DC 20013-7012
USA
Website:
E-mail Address:
BaniaA@si.edu