Summer 2025 Internship Opportunity
About the Position
The Plant Conservation Science Internship at Mt. Cuba Center offers an exceptional opportunity to gain hands-on experience in plant research and conservation. As an integral member of the Plant Conservation Science team, interns will participate in field-based research and data collection throughout the region. This position combines extensive fieldwork (60-80% of time) with office-based research and analysis, providing a comprehensive learning experience in plant conservation. Interns will develop practical skills in rare plant surveys, habitat assessment, and ecological monitoring while contributing to real-world conservation efforts.
Essential Functions of the Role
This dynamic position combines field research with data analysis and project support. The intern will work closely with the Plant Conservation Science team while developing essential skills and knowledge in plant research and conservation.
Primary responsibilities include:
Field Research:
- Conduct rare plant surveys and population monitoring
- Assist with ecological research project data collection
- Document plant populations and habitat conditions
- Support experimental monitoring in forest and meadow settings
- Participate in habitat assessments and threat evaluation
- Collect data for ongoing ecological experiments
Office-Based Work:
- Support project preparation through species identification research
- Assist with data entry and management
- Participate in team meetings and project planning
- Contribute to data analysis and interpretation
- Document research findings and observations
- Research plant habitat preferences and conservation needs
Qualifications and Skills
Required Qualifications
- Minimum one year of college completed
- Coursework or planned program of study in ecology, plant biology, or conservation
- Demonstrated interest and curiosity in plants
- Ability to work outside and hike on uneven terrain
- Ability to carry up to 30 pounds
- Strong attention to detail
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior experience in field work settings
- Prior plant identification experience
- Experience with data collection and management
- Knowledge of native plants and ecological concepts
- Familiarity with basic research methods
Learning Outcomes
Interns will develop:
- Practical experience in field-based plant survey techniques
- Skills in plant identification and documentation
- Understanding of rare plant conservation
- Experience in ecological monitoring methods
- Data collection and management capabilities
- Research project planning skills
- Knowledge of habitat assessment
- Professional network within plant conservation
- Understanding of scientific research methods
About the Role: Compensation & Schedule
- Compensation: $16.00 per hour
- Duration: June 2 through August 29, 2025
- Schedule: 37.5 hours per week, Monday through Friday
- Location: Mt. Cuba Center, Hockessin, Delaware
- Benefits include paid holidays and sick time
- Housing is not provided
- Field work transportation provided
- Opportunities for professional development and networking
Interview & Hiring Process
We require the following in order to consider your application:
- Resume
- Cover letter
If you progress through additional stages in the hiring process you can expect to:
- Complete the online position questionnaire
- Complete a virtual screening interview
- Participate in a final interview with the Hiring Manager and interview panel
Please note: All applications will be reviewed by our team, and all candidates will receive a status update via email after their application has been reviewed. Due to capacity constraints on our hiring team, we are unable to provide you with a specific status update beyond these parameters.
Recruitment Timeline:
- Application review begins: Week of January 13, 2025
- Application deadline: January 24, 2025
- Final decisions communicated: Mid-February 2025
Commitment to Diversity
Mt. Cuba Center is committed to diversity and inclusivity. We encourage qualified candidates from all cultures and communities to apply. For accommodations or assistance with your application, please email careers[a]mtcubacenter.org.