Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center is offering internship opportunities with our Great Plains Science Program in the grasslands of northeast Montana. Our research program is focused on full annual cycle conservation and ecology of grassland birds of conservation concern.
Work and training will be focused on a project using the MOTUS animal tracking system to understand the migratory ecology and demography of Sprague’s Pipit.
This internship is an excellent opportunity for recent BS/BA graduates considering graduate school in wildlife biology or ecology & evolutionary biology. Smithsonian supervisors can and will spend time mentoring interns to assist their career development, such as help navigating the grad school application process.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES/DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: This is a paid internship opportunity wherein the intern will support research led by Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center staff and fellows. Through this internship, interns will:
- Learn songbird nest-searching techniques.
- Learn songbird capture, handling, and Motus tagging techniques.
- Gain experience with grassland bird species native to mixed-grass prairie ecosystems.
- Gain experience navigating a large, remote landscape with 4x4 vehicles and on foot.
- Learn to collect ecological data and complete tasks efficiently as part of a small team.
- Learn to compile and review ecological data in standard formats.
LOCATION: Phillips & Blaine Counties/American Prairie region and Fort Belknap Indian Community in northeastern Montana (nearest town Malta, Montana)
COMPENSATION: $1,800/month
HOUSING: Interns will be housed at no cost in buildings with standard amenities including hot water, full kitchens, and wireless Internet. Interns are responsible for purchase of their own food and travel to/from Montana at the start and end of the season.
TERM OF APPOINTMENT: May 1- August 1. Interns must commit to the entire season, although some flexibility on start date is available for graduating seniors.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: Rolling review. Final closing date is Jan 15, 2025
TO APPLY: Please send a cover letter and CV/resume with 3 references to Nancy Raginski at nancy.raginski@uga.edu. Your email subject must include “Grassland Bird Internship 2025”, or it will not be considered. International candidates are encouraged to apply, but must be responsible for travel expenses.
WORK ETHOS: We strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone in the field, and we place a premium on the physical and mental health of all crew members when working in a remote environment. We maintain a zero-tolerance approach to harassment or discrimination.
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