Are you interested in learning about animal behavior and wellbeing? What about designing and conductinganimal observation projects? If so, our Behavioral Observation internship might be for you! Application Review Periods: Applications are accepted year-round and reviewed on the following schedule: Spring Opportunities: Reviewed in November Summer Opportunities: Reviewed in MarchFall Opportunities: Reviewed in JuneOur Behavioral Observation interns work closely with our Animal Wellbeing team, learning about developing ethograms, different sampling rulesand recording techniques, and how best to apply those concepts to answer a specific question. Interns will also be trained on Scanimals, CZA's general animal observation program. Once trainedon the basicsinterns will begin independently conducting small projects in their region, typically focused on activity budgets, habitat usage, conspecific or enrichment interactions. After aproject is completed, interns will learn how to compiletheir data into a professional report to share with Animal Care staff. Interns will also be requiredto complete various quizzes, training, and a final reflection paper assigned by their mentor Learning Objectives: Animal Observations, Animal Behavior, Animal Wellbeing, Animal Welfare Science, Enrichment and Training, Accreditation Standards related to Animal Wellbeing Student or recent graduate (2 years or less) in Zoology, Biology, Wildlife Management, Animal Science, Veterinary Medicineor related program.3.0 or above accumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale preferred. TB test required Prior animal careor animal welfareknowledge and / or experiencepreferred. Knowledge of and / or experiencewith conducting formal observationson zoological animals is preferred, but not required Ability to balance multiple assignments successfully. Proficient on Microsoft Excelor Google SheetsAble to use tabletto input data Strong computer skills, ability to work with pivot tablesand excel spreadsheets. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Must be professionalin appearance and behavior at all times. Ability to work in varied weather conditions (i.e.extreme heat, cold, rain, snow).Ability to worka flexible schedule including weekends, evenings and holidays (July 4th, Memorial Day, Columbus Day) required Subject to BMV check. Subject to Criminal Background check.
Hours: 20to 40hours/week for 12 to 16 weeksRISE Scholarship Opportunity
Eligible interns may apply for the Battelle-funded RISE Scholarship, which awards $5,000to support hands-on, mission-driven internship experiences at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and The Wilds. Applicants must be Ohio residents or attend an Ohio college or universityand meet all other program eligibility requirements. Scholarship application windows: Winter: October 1 - November 30 Spring: December 1 - January 31 Summer: February 1 - March 31 Fall: May 1 - June 30To Apply to the RISE Scholarship, please visit:
