Population Biology Research Intern, Alexander Center For Applied Population Biology

Population Biology Research Intern, Alexander Center for Applied Population Biology
Lincoln Park Zoo inspires communities to create environments where wildlife will thrive in our urbanizing world. The zoo is a leader in local and global conservation, animal care and welfare, learning, and science. A historic Chicago landmark founded in 1868, the not-for-profit Lincoln Park Zoo, is a privately-managed, member-supported organization and is free and open 365 days a year.
Location: Lincoln Park Zoo, Chicago, IL
Duration: 12 weeks in summer 2024
Scheduling: Full time, 35 hours/week
Come spend your summer at the Lincoln Park Zoo with the Alexander Center for Applied Population Biology and gain valuable experience using data to save endangered wildlife populations! Primary responsibilities will focus on 1) a population viability analysis (PVA), a computer-based modeling project which helps assess the growth of a zoo-based population that is a source for reintroductions to the wild; 2) a project to review existing PVAs to characterize their modeling approach, and 3) a data entry project to enter historical data on the genetic and demographic characteristics of managed zoo populations. The intern will have an opportunity to learn about the application of Population Biology in zoos, including opportunities to observe how scientists at the zoo use data to manage wildlife populations. The findings of the independent PVA in #1 will be presented at the end of the internship.
The intern should be self-motivated, adaptable, and enthusiastic to work in front of a computer. This will likely be a blended position with some days in an office setting at the zoo and an opportunity for the intern to work virtually offsite if desired. This is a 12 week, full-time, paid position that begins mid-May/June 2024.
Learning objectives
The intern will learn:

• about Population Biology including how it is applied to manage zoo populations and conserve wild populations;
• how to use best practices in data management and data entry;
• how to use specialized software (PMCTrack, PopLink, Vortex) used in the zoo and aquarium field and conservation biology fields;
• how to manage data, interpret collected data, and design and conduct a scientific study;
• how to communicate science in person and through written communication.

Essential Job Functions

• Learn how to apply population viability analysis (PVA) modeling to inform manager decision making
• Aggregate, clean, and enter data from a variety of sources into multiple databases;
• Perform data entry with high attention to detail and enthusiasm;

Additional Responsibilities

• Attend Lincoln Park Zoo and/or Alexander Center-related activities as necessary;
• Participate in professional development and networking activities as part of the zoo intern program;
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• The applicant should demonstrate a passion for and understanding of ecology and scientific research;
• Possess strong computer, organizational, and interpersonal skills (written and spoken);
• Must be able to work at computer for 7 hours per day;
• Able to interact positively and enthusiastically with the public about our research when appropriate;
• Works well in a team environment as well as independently;
• Self-motivated to stay on task when working virtually;
• Experience with diverse backgrounds and multicultural environments;
• Maintain a positive and flexible approach to daily responsibilities.

Educational Requirements
Bachelor's Degree (in progress or completed within two years), preferably in biology, ecology, natural resources, or related field.
Additional Requirements
Proof of full COVID-19 vaccination, defined as two-weeks after second vaccination of a two-dose vaccine series (Pfizer or Moderna) or two-weeks after a single-dose vaccine (Johnson & Johnson)
Preferred Experience
We prefer applicants that:

• Have course work or experience in Population Biology;
• Are familiar with some software programs, including program R, Microsoft Excel, and Microsoft Access.

Compensation: $15.80/per hour
Lincoln Park Zoo is committed to an environment that is inclusive and welcoming. We celebrate the diverse qualities, perspectives, values and experiences of all people. Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) and others who identify as nonwhite, people with disabilities, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and those with lived experience with racism and/or misogynoir are encouraged to apply For Wildlife. For All