Post-Bachelor's Disease and Waterbird Ecology Internship

U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) Reference Code: DOI-USGS-2026-03 Application Deadline: 5/29/2026 3:00:00 PM Eastern Time Zone Description Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. USGS Office / Lab and Location A research opportunity is available with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), located at Laurel, Maryland. The USGS mission is to monitor, analyze, and predict current and evolving dynamics of complex human and natural Earth‑system interactions and to deliver actionable intelligence at scales and timeframes relevant to decision makers. As the Nation’s largest water, earth, and biological science and civilian mapping agency, USGS collects, monitors, analyzes, and provides science about natural resource conditions, issues, and problems. Research Project The USGS Eastern Ecological Science Center conducts integrated field and analytical research to support the conservation and management of waterbird populations and aquatic ecosystems. This project includes avian disease surveillance through the capture and sampling of wild birds, population monitoring and banding of state‑endangered tern species, and the deployment of remote camera systems for long‑term ecological studies. Complementary activities include dataset management, statistical analysis, literature review, and preparation of scientific manuscripts and reports, along with logistical coordination and equipment management. Together, these efforts advance understanding of waterbird ecology, population dynamics, and disease processes to inform science‑based conservation and management decisions. Learning Objectives You will develop skills in designing and conducting a scientific study, analyzing and interpreting data, and communicating findings through the preparation of a scientific manuscript. You will collaborate with a mentor and research team to contribute to ongoing research activities and gain experience working within an academic laboratory environment alongside team members with varied levels of experience. You will receive structured mentorship and guidance throughout the experience and will be encouraged to participate in professional conferences and other scholarly development opportunities, as appropriate. Mentor The mentor for this opportunity is Diann Prosser (View email address on click.appcast.io). If you have questions about the nature of the research please contact the mentor. Appointment Details Anticipated Appointment Start Date: Start date is flexible and will depend on a variety of factors. Appointment Length: The appointment will initially be for one year, but may be renewed upon recommendation of DOI and is contingent on the availability of funds. Level of Participation: The appointment is full time. Participant Stipend Stipend rates may vary based on numerous factors, including opportunity, location, education, and experience. If you are interviewed, you can inquire about the exact stipend rate at that time and if selected, your appointment offer will include the monthly stipend rate. Citizenship Requirements This opportunity is available to U.S. citizens only. ORISE Information This program, administered by ORAU through its contract with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to manage the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE), was established through an interagency agreement between DOE and USGS. Participants do not become employees of USGS, DOE or the program administrator, and there are no employment‑related benefits. Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program. Health insurance can be obtained through ORISE. Questions If you have questions about the application process please email View email address on click.appcast.io and include the reference code for this opportunity. Qualifications The qualified candidate should have received a bachelor’s degree in one of the relevant fields. The degree must have been received within the past four years. Preferred Skills The ideal candidate has a degree in Ecology, Wildlife Biology, Natural Resources, GIS, Statistics, or a related field. The candidate must be highly motivated and able to perform independently as well as with a team. Bird identification skills, previous waterbird or wetland field experience, banding or tracking studies, spatial modeling, writing or editing scientific papers, and running basic statistics are desirable. The most important qualification is a motivated individual who is interested in and capable of learning new things. Additionally, the applicant should have previous experience operating and trailering motorboats. Possessing the Department of Interior Motorboat Operator Certification Course (MOCC) is highly beneficial. Point of Contact Rachel Eligibility Requirements Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Only Degree: Bachelor’s Degree received within the last 48 month(s). Discipline(s): Environmental and Marine Sciences Biological Oceanography Environmental Sciences Environmental Studies Fish and Wildlife Fisheries Forest Resources and Science Forestry Sciences Hydrologic Sciences Marine Biology Marine Science Natural Resources Oceanography Soil Science Wildlife Management #J-18808-Ljbffr Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education