Crane Research Internship

Description: The North America Program at the International Crane Foundation is currently involved in studies of Greater Sandhill Cranes and re-introduced Whooping Cranes in the upper Midwest. Interns will assist in studying the foraging ecology, movements, habitat use, and social behavior of these breeding and non-breeding cranes throughout central Wisconsin. Whooping Crane research will focus on nesting and colt survival, as well as movements and behaviors of juveniles and adults, particularly associated with the release of captive-reared chicks into the wild. Interns will assist in deploying trail cameras on the breeding grounds to monitor potential predators of crane chicks. There will also be opportunities to capture Whooping Cranes for banding and transmitter replacement as well as sampling of environmental contaminants. Radio tracking of free ranging Whooping Cranes will be required mainly in the central/southeastern part of the state; however, travel into others states may also be necessary. Current Sandhill Crane projects include capture and banding adult and juvenile cranes within the study-area, observations of colored banded individuals within a wild population to assess productivity, habitat-use, and breeding pair dynamics. Other responsibilities include developing and presenting an independent research project, data entry, and ecosystem restoration work (prescribed burns, seed collection, and invasive species control) on ICF’s site. Opportunities may also be available for volunteering for the conservation education and aviculture staff at ICF.

In addition, we will be conducting a specific project during 2022 and are seeking applicants with an interest in wildlife health and environmental contaminants.

Duration and Salary: March 1st – November 30, 2022, $800/month, plus housing at our International Guest House.

Qualifications: B.S. or B.A. in biology or related field. Previous fieldwork and radio telemetry experience is preferred but not required. Tolerance is needed for working in difficult conditions and long field days (before sunrise to after sunset), often spent in vehicles. Individuals seeking graduate training are encouraged to apply.  A valid driver’s license (USA or International) and an acceptable driving record are required. Written English and oral communication skills are necessary.  All applicants must be eligible to work in the United States at the time they apply.

If selected, interns must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or request a religious or reasonable accommodation.

To Apply: Send cover letter, resume, and contact information for three references to: icfinternships@savingcranes.org  please include “Crane Research Internship” in the subject line. 

ICF is committed to cultivating and preserving a culture of diversity and inclusion.

ICF is an equal opportunity employer