"We got to do the full range of work tasks that the arborists and gardeners and other staff are involved with—from weeding to tree pruning to even some construction. I really liked the variety. It was never the same kind of day."
Natural Areas Research
Natural Areas Research Internship
The Natural Areas Research Internship position will provide an introduction to methods of assessing condition of and changes in vegetation in natural areas. Previous experience with vegetation or other ecological sampling methods will be helpful. Printable job description.
Sampling techniques allow natural areas managers to:
- monitor populations of rare or declining species.
- document changes over time.
- evaluate the effectiveness of invasive species control measures.
Plantations Natural Areas Program manages over 30 Cornell-owned nature preserves both on- and off-campus, totaling about 4,300 acres. These natural areas are biologically diverse, and include examples of most of the ecological communities or habitats found in the region. Several of the sites are important for the protection of rare species.
As an intern you will work closely with the Natural Areas staff on a variety of tasks such as
- vegetation sampling,
- rare plant monitoring and protection,
- trail maintenance and
- invasive species control.
Plant identification is basic to much of this work and frequent opportunities to improve your skills will be presented.
Your own special project is a possible part of the internship.
Requirements
- Ability to commit to the entire internship period,
Must be a currently enrolled or accepted Cornell University student - Experience with plant identification is very helpful
- Willingness to work outdoors under field conditions
- Ability and willingness to do repetitive tasks
- Ability to work alone and be self-directed, as necessary, in remote settings
- Participation in group student activities and field trips, as scheduled
- Ability to alternate between independent and group workMust be able to lift 50 pounds
- Learn to follow proper safety protocol
- Must have or be able to obtain a valid driver’s license
Access to a car helpful
This is a full-time, 12 week internship. Must be able to work Saturday of Reunion Weekend. Typical work hours are Monday-Friday 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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