Title: GIS Technical Intern
Project Description:
The Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI -
https://nationalzoo.si.edu/conservation) is offering an internship in GIS
analysis as part of the Changing Landscapes Initiative (CLI). CLI is a
joint spatial analysis and public engagement project utilizing both land
use/land cover change modeling and scenario planning to inform land use
decisions. The project is beginning a new phase where land use/land cover
change models will be used to evaluate impacts to regional ecologic
function. In addition, we are in the beginning stages of applying our
methods and models internationally.
Learning Objectives:
This internship is intended for someone who wants to both refine and
expand their quantitative and communication skill sets. The CLI team will
provide opportunities for the intern to apply their knowledge to an
authentic, ongoing scientific inquiry. The intern will have access to a
diverse set of real world spatial data and experienced spatial analysts
will guide them through intermediate and advanced methods for analyzing
that data using both R and ArcGIS. The intern will have the opportunity to
refine their skills in R by both editing existing code and generating new
code from scratch. The intern will also be introduced to, and develop
proficiency in, the use of Dinamica EGO, a powerful modeling platform.
Finally, the intern will gain first hand insight into how advanced spatial
analysis is communicated to a variety of audiences (public, scientific,
NGO) and, in particular, how it can be used to influence on the ground
policy.
Skill Building Opportunities:
Interns will have the chance to learn and develop quantitative and
communication skills by:
-Preparing spatial data for advanced analysis
-Performing descriptive analyses in both ArcMap or R
-Writing, editing, and running R scripts
-Participating in the development of Dinamica EGO models
-Creating aesthetically compelling cartographic products
-Assisting with data management
-Occasionally assisting with outreach efforts
Who Should Apply:
Interns with the following will benefit the most from this opportunity:
-Degree in geography, ecology, environmental science, or related field
-Experience manipulating spatial data to meet analytical needs
(projections, raster/polygon conversion, subset selection)
-Experience synthesizing and summarizing diverse spatial data sets from of
varying formats
-Proven ability to write and edit R scripts
-Experience with basic statistics and ability to perform simple
exploratory analyses
-Interest in biogeography, landscape ecology/change, and a desire to learn
-Experience with land use modeling or species distribution modeling
-Experience with the use of python in ArcMap
Stipend:
$1700 per month
Housing:
On-campus housing is available
Terms of Appointment:
6-month full time (40 hrs/wk) internship, with possibility of extension,
starting in late September 2018
Location:
The Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute is located at the north
entrance of the Shenandoah National Park about 60 miles west of
Washington, D.C., in Front Royal, VA.
Application Deadline:
Monday, August 27, 2018
To apply:
Send a resume and cover letter to ferg...@si.edu explaining your interest
in this program, expressing how you could benefit from the training, how
it could contribute to your future career goals, and why you would make a
strong candidate
