This position will be housed at Clemson University, with field travel to Baruch Institute of Coastal Ecology in Georgetown, South Carolina. There will also be frequent travel to other parts of the state for field work. We are seeking an intern to assist with avian tracking and monitoring research.
This internship offers hands-on experience with field techniques, data collection, and conservation technology, making it ideal for students interested in ornithology, wildlife biology, and ecological research.
Primary Responsibilities
- Field Research & Monitoring: o Assist in catch-and-release operations at four Motus Wildlife Tracking System sites. o Deploy Lotek nanotag transmitters on wild and farm-raised mallards to track movements and migration patterns. o Apply identification bands following proper bird banding protocols to contribute to long-term monitoring efforts. o Participate in routine site maintenance and equipment checks to ensure optimal data collection from Motus towers.
- Training & Skill Development: o Learn and practice safe bird handling techniques, including bleeding for DNA sampling. o Receive training in the construction and maintenance of various bird trapping devices. o Develop skills in banding birds, including taking key measurements and recording morphological data. o Gain experience in the proper application of backpack-style telemetry transmitters for avian research.
- Data Collection & Organization: o Record and manage field data, ensuring accuracy and consistency in research documentation. o Assist in entering and organizing data for research reports, publications, and conservation planning. o Learn about data interpretation and visualization to support research findings.
Qualifications & Skills
- Interest in ornithology, wildlife tracking, or conservation research.
- Willingness to work outdoors in various weather conditions and handle live birds safely. • Strong attention to detail for data entry and fieldwork tasks.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively with a research team.
- Experience with bird handling, banding, or telemetry is beneficial but not required—training will be provided.
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.
