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Smithsonian''s National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute
Asia Trail Behavior & Research Internship
Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI) is providing an opportunity for an intern to gain experience learning about animal behavior alongside animal keepers and the curators of Asia Trail and Animal Welfare/Research. Topics interns will learn about include, but are not limited to, animal husbandry, nutrition, enrichment, training, visitor education, data collection and interpretation of research or animal management needs. If time permits, the selected applicant may also be able to learn about other types of behavioral projects including visibility of animals to zoo visitors and giant panda behavior as it relates to animal management and zoo activities (e.g., construction). This position will be overseen by the Curator of Animal Welfare & Research and Curator of Asia Trail and work closely with the Asia Trail keeper team.
The intern will gain experience in animal management research that is directly related to the Zoo's mission: We save species by using cutting-edge science, sharing knowledge, and providing inspirational experiences for our guests.
Learning Objectives
Learn how to identify different species and individuals housed together
Learn basic principles of zoological animal husbandry, including diet preparation, exhibit maintenance, and routine animal care
Learn and follow animal care safety procedures, operational protocols, and institutional policies
Assist with the design, preparation, and evaluation of environmental enrichment that promotes species-specific behaviors and animal welfare
Observe and identify animal behaviors
Learn basic research methodology and how to manage the process of data collection while on public display (balancing the needs of a research project with the needs of the visiting public)
Learn how to use a complex camera recording system
Learn how to present lessons learned and recommendations to senior leaders
Experience Required
Qualifications Smithsonian interns are subject to fingerprinting and must pass a background check. All duties will occur in a dynamic zoo setting, and the appointed intern will need to be a flexible team player. Safety protocols for interns must be strictly adhered to at all times. Successful applicants will be at least a junior in college or hold a university degree. Strong preference will be given to those applicants who have experience working on previous behavioral research projects, with Excel, or with animal management. Must be able to work in outdoor environment in all weather conditions.
Further Comments
Stipend: This is a paid, part-time internship ($350/week for 16 weeks). Intern will be responsible for all transportation costs and personal health insurance. Location: Washington, DC Housing: The intern will make their own housing arrangements in the Washington, DC area. Parking: The Smithsonian''s National Zoo does not provide free parking to interns. Public transportation is suggested. Term of appointment: Internship runs for 16 weeks between August-December 2026. Exact start and end dates to be determined upon selection. Interns must be able to devote 24 hours per week. Reasonable exceptions may be made to coordinate with university or work schedules. Please note: The deadline to apply for this fall internship is Sunday, July 26, 2026. Application deadline(s): July 26, 2026
How to Apply
How to Apply:
To apply, go to: https://solaa.si.edu. Select "Don''t have an Account? Create An Account." Complete the information to create an account.
Information that will be requested (in SOLAA) includes:
Cover sheet including name, address, phone number, email address, and which internship(s) you are applying for.
Resume or CV summarizing education (including current academic status) and employment experience.
A one-page statement of your interest in pursuing this position. The statement should mention relevant experience, career goals, your reasons for wanting this internship, and what you hope to gain from the experience. Your statement is very important during application evaluations.
Transcripts from your current and/or previous institutions. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
Two letters of reference, including at least one academic reference. If referrers prefer to send letters of reference directly to the intern coordinator, they may do so to the email address below. However, applicants must notify the coordinators if their references will be arriving separately, or the application may be considered incomplete.
Schedule of availability (typical schedule is 3 days per week, 7am-3pm, reasonable exceptions may be made to coordinate with job or university schedules).
Once you create your account and provide the requested information, you will be prompted to select the type of appointment you are interested in. You will select:
Type of appointment: "Internship"
Unit of interest: "National Zoological Park"
Program: "National Zoological Park Internship Program"
Project: "Rock Creek - Asia Trail Behavior and Research"
Your application is considered complete when you hit "Submit." Your SOLAA-submitted application with references must be received by the deadlines as noted above.
Smithsonian''s National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute
Washington, DC 20008
Phone: 2026333504
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