Job Type: Paid Internship
Salary Details: $1350/biweekly
Deadline: Nov 01, 2023
Through funding by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) National Leadership Grants program, the Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife (CREW) at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is seeking to hire an IMLS Scholar. This is the first of three 10-month, full-time, trainee positions associated with this award. A bi-weekly salary of $1350 (~$2700/month or ~$27,000 over 10 months) plus benefits will be provided.
Position summary: The aim of the IMLS Scholar position is to provide promising early-career scientists opportunities to gain immersive, hands-on experience to prepare them for careers in conservation science and/or wildlife studies. The successful candidate will be instrumental in achieving the goals of an IMLS grant-funded project which aims to support the conservation and improve management of bear species in North American zoological institutions. Building on over a decade of polar bear research, CREW scientists are expanding their efforts to other bear species. The project aims to increase our understanding of the reproductive physiology of Ursidae, preserve genetic material, and enhance the zoo population of bears, with the ultimate goal of informing the conservation and management of wild populations of bears.
The successful candidate will work alongside, be mentored by, and support CREW scientists dedicated to studying threatened and endangered animal species, with a focus on bears. Scholars will be trained in general laboratory skills, methods of wildlife monitoring, and will dedicate most of their time to research activities within the Polar Bear Signature Project (to learn more about CREW’s research, visit: http://cincinnatizoo.org/conservation/crew). The individual’s training program may be tailored based on the selected candidate’s skillset and aptitude, as well as current project needs. General responsibilities will include: processing fecal and blood samples; steroid hormone extractions; performing hormone assays; reviewing the scientific literature; sample inventory; general laboratory upkeep, and; other tasks as required. Although direct interaction with animals will be limited, there will be opportunities to observe or participate in animal procedures, such as ultrasound examinations and fertility examinations, both at CZBG and collaborating institutions. Additionally, a cross-training opportunity at a partnering zoological research facility will be provided to give the Scholar a broader perspective on zoological research. Depending on the candidate’s interests and abilities, opportunities to design, conduct, and take ownership of an independent project are possible.
Qualifications: This position is open to recent graduates and graduate students pursuing a career in wildlife studies. Candidates from underrepresented groups and first-generation college graduates are strongly encouraged to apply. All training will be provided to the selected individual, but preference may be given to applicants with previous laboratory and/or research experience.
- Bachelor of Science degree in a related field, such as biology, zoology, or wildlife conservation is required;
- Completed coursework in the areas of physiology, reproduction, and/or endocrinology;
- Eager to learn with an outstanding work ethic and passionate about pursuing a career in wildlife conservation;
- Extremely detail-oriented, tidy, and organized;
- Able to multi-task and anticipate project needs;
- Should be comfortable working with fecal samples on a regular basis;
- Must be competent with Microsoft Excel and Word;
- Prompt and reliable in the areas of attendance and performance;
- Able to work well and communicate effectively with CREW scientists, zoo staff, interns, volunteers, students, and the general public;
- Available and willing to commit to the duration of the internship (~10-months); and
- Selected applicant must maintain a current Covid-vaccination status.
We strive to be an organization that is diverse and reflects the fullness of society. With a strongly held value for an organizational culture characterized by inclusion and belonging, we are committed to equity in all we do. We are especially interested in candidates who can contribute to our organization’s diversity and who want to walk alongside us in our commitment to inclusion and equity. We are a Queen City Certified/Ellequate Leader in Workplace Equity.
About CREW: Located on the grounds of the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, CREW is one of just a few zoological facilities entirely dedicated to supporting conservation research and houses a team of full-time scientists. CREW plays a critical role in broadening the knowledge and understanding of animal and plant biology, increasing and preserving global biodiversity, connecting managed and wild populations and conserving imperiled species in their native environment. Channeling the strengths and expertise of the scientific staff, CREW takes a focused approach to wildlife conservation by identifying Signature projects where we believe our impact can be significant, including: 1) rhinos, 2) exceptional plants, 3) imperiled cats, and 4) polar bears. Each Signature project is a well-rounded program with ongoing activities in each of five strategic areas considered essential to conserving these species: research, education, in situ protection, propagation, and visitor involvement.
Working Conditions: While performing the duties of the job, the incumbent will be regularly required to stand, walk, and utilize manual dexterity to operate laboratory equipment, as well as a computer mouse and keyboard. The incumbent may be exposed to outside weather conditions and must be able to lift/move/carry up to 40 pounds without assistance. Incumbent must be comfortable working in a walk-in freezer and refrigerator on occasion.
Compensation & Benefits: This is a full-time, 10-month, overtime-exempt position. A bi-weekly salary of $1350 (~$27,000 over 10 months) and a comprehensive benefits package will be provided, including affordable medical, dental & vision coverage, 401(k) plan with company match, flexible spending accounts, generous paid time off (vacation, holiday and sick leave), company-paid disability & life insurance, park discounts and free passes.
Timeline: Closing date for the first round of applications is November 1, 2023; however; if an appropriate candidate is not identified, the position will remain posted until a qualified candidate is identified. By applying, the applicant acknowledges that s/he is willing to relocate to Cincinnati, if applicable. Housing is not provided.
HOW TO APPLY