The Big Sky Institute is recruiting student interns!
The Big Sky Institute (BSI) is an interdisciplinary science and education institute that was created by Montana State University and community supporters to help transform the role of science in our society by advancing relevant, place-based science and science education. BSI collaboratively develops and facilitates research and education programs that explore pressing issues and important gaps of scientific knowledge in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE) and beyond.
BSI Internship
BSI Student Intern(s) will contribute to ongoing ecological informatics research, technology development, and science communication conducted by the Big Sky Institute (BSI) in partnership with the USGS National Biological Information Infrastructure (NBII) program. The NBII is a national project that provides scientists, educators, managers, and the general public with increased access to data and information on the nation’s biological resources. This paid, academic-year internship will provide selected interns with an excellent opportunity to apply their own educational focus and areas of interest to meet the broad goals of the NBII. Interns will gain valuable skills and work experience in the growing field of informatics and become familiar with regional and national natural resource topics.
Each BSI Internship will be tailored to the skills and interests of the intern, with particular emphasis on some combination of biological sciences and/or computer science. Tasks will include website maintenance, updating natural resources databases, synthesizing scientific information, configuring web page layout, developing analytical tools or applications, and researching and communicating scientific topics through written material, graphical representations, and interactive tools.
Preferred Qualifications
• Sophomore, Junior, or Senior standing with a strong academic record.
• Currently enrolled in at least 6 credits.
• Majoring in one of the following (or related) areas of study: ecology, biology, fish & wildlife, computer science, land resources, water resources, geography, GIS, environmental engineering, environmental studies, writing.
• Computer proficiency, including word processing and spreadsheet programs. Additional experience with GIS, web mapping, and HTML should be noted in the application process.
• Specialized interest and/or experience in fisheries, aquatic systems, bird conservation, renewable energy, or butterflies & moths should be noted in the applicant’s letter.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively on a wide variety of tasks and in different roles.
Dates and Hours
Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until December 1st, 2009 or until positions are filled. Positions will begin in December or January, with the option to work during the winter and summer breaks. Scheduling will accommodate interns’ class schedules with an expected commitment of 10-20 hours per week.
Compensation and Credit
$12-14 per hour, depending on experience. Internship credit is available, contingent on departmental approval.
Application Procedure
To apply, submit the following items electronically or in person to Leslie Bahn, Informatics Specialist & Intern Coordinator:
1) a one-page letter of application that describes your qualifications and interest in the position
2) an application form (downloadable here in MS Word fill-in format) OR resume showing relevant coursework and three references (two academic or work-related, one personal).
Contact Information
Leslie Bahn, Informatics Specialist & Intern Coordinator
Big Sky Institute
229 AJM Johnson
(406) 994-2591
leslie.bahn@montana.edu