The Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC) is seeking a Scientific Illustration intern for Spring 2023. SERC conducts research often covers complex systems, involving interactions among multiple biotic, abiotic, and human elements. Diagrams, images, and schematics can be integral in demonstrating these complex relationships, both to research and lay audiences.
Compensation: $625/week, onsite housing is provided
Duration: 11 weeks
Application Deadline: February 3, 2023
A mutually agreeable start date will be determined with the selected applicant. We anticipate a start date in mid to late March 2023. We envision this as an on-site internship on our campus in Edgewater, Maryland. However, we are open to discussing hybrid and potentially remote options with well qualified candidates.
This intern will work with the SERC Public Engagement team and Fisheries Conservation Lab to identify areas related to human-ecosystem interactions that could be conveyed by illustration. Examples could include the ecosystem value of restored oyster reefs and the migration patterns of migratory fish. We envision the illustrations being used as part of research and communications efforts. Ideally, the intern will have the opportunity to participate in fieldwork and lab work related to the illustrations and visual products that they will create.
In addition to the independent project, the intern will be broadly exposed to and participate in SERC public engagement and research activities. Responsibilities may include taking creating website content, collecting data and working with volunteers in the field on a variety of projects, engaging with K-12 students and educators, interacting with SERC researchers, and communicating SERC research to members of the public through direct and virtual interactions.
We are seeking applicants with some (but not necessarily all) of the following:
* Experience with visual art and/or graphic design
* Experience developing videos, social media posts, and other communication products
* Coursework and/or experience in ecology or environmental science
* Interest and some understanding of environmental science research
* Interest in communicating science to a variety of audiences
* Ability to work independently
* Ability to work as a part of an interdisciplinary team
To apply, please email a resume that highlights relevant experiences to Alison Cawood at cawooda@si.edu.
The SERC community recognizes the value of diversity in promoting innovative science and creative solutions, and we strongly encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply. We recognize that each applicant for this role will bring unique skills, knowledge, experiences and background to this position. The Smithsonian Institution is an equal opportunity employer, committed to a policy of non-discrimination on the basis of race/ethnicity, national origin, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, religion, marital/parental/caregiver status and disability.