Project Description: The Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI - https://nationalzoo.si.edu/conservation) is offering an internship in outreach and communication 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 goal is to provide local land use planners with insights into the potential future of the region as informed by ecological knowledge. The project has completed primary modeling work and is now presenting the results of this analysis to the stakeholders who guided our work.
Learning Objectives: In this internship, the selected intern will learn, expand, and refine skills essential for community outreach—including event planning, logistics, and conservation communication—by assisting with the preparation of an important stakeholder outreach meeting in early April 2018. Through this project, the intern will gain first hand insight into how science is communicated, especially in the context of influencing policy. They will have the opportunity to meet individuals from a variety of local NGOs and government agencies and learn how these different groups interact with each other. The intern will also be able to improve their skills in both writing and design through the creation of outreach documents. Finally, through the interdisciplinary design of the CLI project, the intern will gain experience in research and data gathering activities as well as the preparation of presentations for scientific audiences. Skill Building Opportunities: Interns will have the opportunity to learn and develop experience in community outreach by: ● Establishing and maintaining active communication with a network of current project stakeholders ● Searching for new stakeholders and integrating them into the project network ● Collaborating in the coordination of meetings, including developing presentation materials and keeping meeting minutes ● Helping draft and define communications strategy to inform stakeholders and the public about project initiatives and results ● Seeking out opportunities to share project initiatives and results with NGOs and academic organizations ● Helping prepare status reports, documenting ongoing activities, current schedule trend, challenges, events, and project requirements Who Should Apply: Interns with the following will benefit the most from this opportunity: ● Excellent written and verbal communication skills with strong interpersonal skills to engage effectively with internal teams members and external stakeholders ● Organized and self-motivated individuals, able to handle tight deadlines with strong multi-tasking and prioritizing abilities. ● Independent and team-oriented experience for a collaborative project ● Adaptable to a dynamic environment and it’s challenges with a flexible personality and strong problem-solving skills ● Working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications and computer proficiency ● Project management certification or previous experience in program management and communications ● Strong strategic thinking and planning skills ● Experience working effectively with both governmental agencies and a private parties ● Experience using database and/or visual graphics software (Access, Publisher, InDesign) Stipend: $800 per month plus free housing on site Terms of Appointment: 3-month full time (40 hrs/wk) internship, with possibility of extension, starting as soon as possible 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, January 29, 2018 To apply: Send a cover letter 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 fit. In addition, please provide a resume, transcripts (unofficial OK), and the names and contact info for three references to Craig Fergus ferg...@si.edu. Please use the phrase "Outreach Position" in the subject line. Final applications will be processed through SOLAA - If you are new to SOLAA go to: https://solaa.si.edu/solaa/SOLAAHome.html. Select "New to SOLAA? Create Account Here" and complete the information to create an account. Information that will be requested (in SOLAA) includes: • Basic personal information • Professional resume or CV • A one-page statement of your interest in pursuing this position. The statement should mention relevant experience, career goals, your reasons for wanting this internship and what you hope to gain from the experience. Your statement is very important during application evaluations. • Transcripts from your current and/or previous institutions. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable. • Two letters of reference (One must be from a current or former supervisor) • Schedule of availability
