Tidal Thames Conservation Project Internship

The Zoological Society of London is seeking two interns to provide support to the Marine and Freshwater Conservation Programme. Successful candidates will join an international team and be given the opportunity to gain experience within a globally respected conservation organisation.

The internship will have a significant outdoor-work component with candidates expected to spend at least two days a week in the field throughout their six month contract. Field work will primarily consist of conducting our annual European eel recruitment monitoring, fixed point monitoring of estuarine fish and invertebrates as well as marine mammal surveys within the Thames Estuary. Additional responsibilities will include data input and analysis, representing ZSL at meetings and events and providing general support to the global marine and freshwater programme.

A successful candidate must have an undergraduate and preferably a Masters level degree in Marine Biology or a related subject. Candidates must be self motivated and be able to handle sometimes testing field conditions. A successful candidate will have exceptional research and written communication skills as they will be tasked with drafting reports, posters and updating the website. It is essential that candidates have either a full UK manual driving licence, or equivalent, and be confident of driving through London. Existing knowledge of the Thames Estuary and its fauna would be advantageous.

The internship is for six months, starting on 2nd April 2012 and running until the 12th October 2012. The role is part time (4 days per week) and is based within ZSL’s Conservation Programmes department in Regent’s Park. 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 (max £5 a day). Please note there should be no expectation that any paid position will arise out of this internship.

This is an excellent opportunity for the successful candidate to further their knowledge of conservation and to gain essential conservation experience. To apply, please send a covering letter outlining your interest and suitability for this role, your CV and details of two referees to marineandfreshwater@zsl.org.

Closing date for applications: Midnight 11th March 2012

 Interviews likely to be on the 19th March