EDGE Research Intern

The Zoological Society of London (ZSL)’s EDGE of Existence programme identifies, highlights and conserves the world’s most Evolutionary Distinct and Globally Endangered (EDGE) species. Examples include the long-beaked echidna, Chinese giant salamander and West Indian solenodons. The programme has identified a major gap in current conservation schemes, as 65% of the world’s top 100 EDGE mammals and 85% of the top 100 EDGE amphibians and all of the top 10 EDGE corals are currently receiving little or no conservation attention.

We are seeking a research intern to assist with the development and implementation of ‘Species Report Cards’ - a simple monitoring tool that will enable us to quantify, for each EDGE species, any changes in threats, conservation attention and status since the EDGE programme was launched in 2007.

The intern will assist with the development of the monitoring framework, collect data and create the first series of species report cards. The internship will involve liaising with relevant experts to develop the tool, collecting data on key parameters (from published literature and interview surveys), analysing these data and publishing the final report cards online.

Candidates must have a relevant undergraduate degree and preferably a post graduate degree in conservation or a related subject, demonstrable strong analytical skills (with knowledge of basic statistics), experience of desk-based research, and excellent attention to detail. They should be self motivated and able to work independently to meet deadlines.

Further details can be found on our website, www.zsl.org

We ask that interns commit to six months full time (37.5 hours, Monday – Friday), starting in September 2012. The role is based within ZSL’s Conservation Programmes department in Regent’s Park, London so candidates should ideally live within easy daily reach of ZSL London Zoo. All applicants must be able to show that they have permission to work in the UK.

Please note that this is a voluntary position. However, ZSL will reimburse travel costs from within the Greater London area (zones 1-6) and lunches.

To apply, please send a covering letter outlining your interest and suitability for this role, your CV and details of two referees to Carly Waterman ( carly.waterman@zsl.org ). All short listed applicants will be contacted by 10th September 2012. We receive many applications for our vacancies, and are unfortunately unable to reply to all enquiries. If you have not been contacted by this date we regret you have been unsuccessful on his occasion.

Closing date: Monday 3rd September 2012