Estuaries and Wetlands Intern (Part-Time / 10 Month Fixed-Term Contract)

The Zoological Society of London (ZSL), a charity founded in 1826, is a world-renowned centre of excellence for conservation science and applied conservation. ZSL’s mission is to promote and achieve the worldwide conservation of animals and their habitats. This is realised by carrying out field conservation and research in over 50 countries across the globe and through education and awareness-raising at our two zoos, ZSL London Zoo and ZSL Whipsnade Zoo, inspiring people to take conservation action.

Role Profile

The Zoological Society of London is seeking two interns to provide support to the Estuaries and Wetlands Conservation Programme. They will be part of a busy team, focusing on marine and freshwater projects, and will have the opportunity to gain experience interning at a globally respected conservation organisation. The internships will be 10 months, starting 4th February 2019. The role is part time, 4 days per week and is based at ZSL’s Conservation Programmes department in Regent’s Park.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

The ten-month long internships will include a substantial element of fieldwork support related to our conservation work in the Thames catchment including boat work monitoring fish. Additional tasks include maintaining and updating the marine mammal sightings database; data input and analysis; representing ZSL at meetings and events; and providing general support to all other projects in the Estuaries and Wetlands Conservation Programme.

In this role, the interns will benefit from:

• Experience conducting monitoring fieldwork in the London area as a part of one of the UK’s leading conservation research organisations.
• Training opportunities, including an Induction to working at ZSL, Health and Safety awareness and attendance at regional conferences and conservation planning workshops.
• Experience in data analysis, report writing and public engagement.
• Interaction with staff across the Society, particularly from the Conservation Programmes department, with opportunities to engage more widely with members of the local conservation community including statutory organisations and universities.
• Regular opportunities to attend scientific talks by professional researchers and practitioners in science and conservation.
• Access to ZSL facilities including the Library and both zoo sites (ZSL London and ZSL Whipsnade) for the duration of the internship.

Person Specification

The candidates should be self-motivated and possess good communication skills as they may be tasked with assisting the team with reports and stakeholder communications. Experience of aquatic sampling techniques would be useful but not essential, as would some knowledge of the Thames Estuary and its fauna. Willingness to carry out physically demanding fieldwork in sometimes challenging conditions and a confidence around water will both be necessary. It is essential that candidates have either a full UK or international manual driving licence and be confident of driving through London.

To Apply

Applicants will need to upload their CV and covering letter (detailing relevant experience and skills, stating why they want the position and including details of availability) by clicking the "Apply for this job online" button.