EDGE Storytelling Intern (Part-Time / 6 Months Fixed-Term Contract)

The Zoological Society of London (ZSL), a charity founded in 1826, is a world-renowned centre of excellence for conservation science and applied conservation. ZSL’s mission is to promote and achieve the worldwide conservation of animals and their habitats. This is realised by carrying out field conservation and research in over 50 countries across the globe and through education and awareness-raising at our two zoos, ZSL London Zoo and ZSL Whipsnade Zoo, inspiring people to take conservation action.

The EDGE of Existence programme is the only global conservation initiative to focus specifically on threatened species that represent a significant amount of unique evolutionary history. Using a scientific framework to identify the world’s most Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered (EDGE) species, the EDGE of Existence programme highlights and protects some of the most weird and wonderful species on the planet.

One of the most effective ways in which we work to secure the future of EDGE species is by building conservation capacity in regions in which they occur. This is achieved though awarding two-year Fellowships to future conservation leaders (EDGE Fellows) working on poorly-known EDGE species.

Storytelling is being increasingly recognised as an important tool in science communication. A compelling story can resonate with a reader and empower them to take action. The successful applicant will extract captivating stories about EDGE Fellows and species, delivering them through our website, social media pages, newsletters and other media outputs. This individual will use creative methods to generate content in a wide array of digital storytelling formats, including text, video and photography. The applicant will also more widely support the EDGE team in updating and managing website content.

• Extracting compelling stories from a range of information and data sources held by EDGE to communicate the work that EDGE is doing worldwide.
• Creating content for EDGE social media platforms (Facebook/Twitter/Instagram).
• Assisting with the creation of the EDGE quarterly newsletter.
• Sourcing and writing engaging blogs for the EDGE website.
• Updating and managing content on the EDGE website.

• Have an undergraduate degree in a relevant subject.
• Demonstrated experience in science communication or public understanding of science.
• Experience in constructing interesting narratives and engaging stories for a general audience, for example through blogs or media articles.
• Experience in photo and/or video editing preferred.
• Experience in graphical layout of documents and visual design preferred.
• Some knowledge and interest in conservation, ecology or biological sciences.
• Demonstrated strong written and interpersonal communication skills.
• Good attention to detail.
• Good administrative and organisational skills.
• Interest and/or experience in updating and managing website content.
• Experience in using WordPress or a similar content management system would be an advantage.

Please Note: This internship will be six months long, ideally starting in December 2018. The role is part time (maximum four days per week) and is based at ZSL’s Conservation Programmes department in Regent’s Park. This is a paid internship, set at the national minimum wage of £7.83 per hour.

Applicants will need to upload their CV and covering letter (detailing relevant experience and skills, stating why they want the position and including details of availability) and can do this by clicking the "Apply for this job online" button.

Closing date for applications: Midnight Sunday 4th November 2018.

Anticipated Interview Date: W/c – 12th November

The Zoological Society of London is a charity registered in England and Wales: no. 208728.