These positions will be located both at Clemson University and at the Baruch Institute, Georgetown, SC.
Field travel to various locations around the state will also be required.
We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented individual to assist with wetland research throughout central and eastern South Carolina.
This position will provide hands-on experience in field ecology, laboratory techniques, and data management, making it ideal for students or early-career professionals interested in wetland science, ecology, or conservation biology.
Field Work (25%)
- Assisting in the collection and identification of aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates to assess biodiversity and ecosystem health.
- Participating in plant identification efforts to document vegetation composition and wetland classification.
- Assisting with soil sampling and characterization to evaluate physical and chemical properties related to wetland function.
- Depending on interest, contributing to avian point count surveys and bird identification to assess bird community structure in wetland habitats.
- Fieldwork will require overnight travel from Clemson for at least three days per month, often involving long hours in variable weather conditions, hiking through wetlands, and carrying field equipment.
Laboratory Work (50%)
- Sorting, processing, and identifying invertebrate samples using dissecting microscopes and taxonomic keys.
- Assisting in the preparation and preservation of collected specimens for long-term research archives.
- Conducting quality control checks on collected data to ensure accuracy and consistency.
- Maintaining an organized laboratory workspace, including sample storage and equipment upkeep.
- Training opportunities will be available for those interested in learning advanced invertebrate identification techniques.
Data Entry and Analysis (25%)
- Entering collected data into spreadsheets and databases with attention to accuracy and consistency.
- Assisting in data cleaning and organization for use in research reports and publications.
- If interested, learning data analysis techniques such as statistical modeling, GIS mapping, or R programming for ecological research.
- Assisting in the creation of summary reports and visual data representations to support ongoing research projects.
Qualifications and Skills
- Interest in wetland ecology, environmental science, or related fields.
- Willingness to work outdoors in physically demanding conditions, including heat, humidity, and wet environments.
- Strong attention to detail, particularly in laboratory and data entry tasks.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a research team.
- Experience with invertebrate identification, plant identification, or soil analysis is beneficial but not required—training will be provided.
- Basic computer proficiency, including experience with Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets, experience with statistical software (R, Python) or GIS is a plus.
Submit the following documents: Resume, Cover Letter
Eligibility requirements: UPIC interns must be enrolled, matriculating, full-time (12+ credit hours for part-time interns) Clemson University undergraduate students in good academic standing and non-academic alert status (minimum cumulative Clemson GPA of 2.0) and in good status with the UPIC program.
Once selected, to participate in the UPIC Program, student interns must enroll in the required INT course ($200 course fee) and complete hiring paperwork with the UPIC office.
Interns cannot begin working until the hiring process is complete.
