Behavioral Research Internship - Spring 2027

Behavioral Research Internship Spring 2027

Internship Dates: January 19, 2027-May 22, 2027

Deadline to Apply: SPOTS ARE LIMITED-Apply today to join our Spring 2027Behavioral Research Internship team and launch your future into a rewarding career in wildlife and conservation!

Step into the Wild Side of Conservation.

Ready for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity ? The Behavioral Research Team Internship at ZooTampa offers hands-on experience in animal husbandry, behavioral training, and real-time conservation education. You'll work shoulder-to-shoulder with professional animal care staff, gaining behind-the-scenes insight while building skills that pave the way for a career in zoology or wildlife management. From collecting behavioral data to creating enrichment and engaging with guests, every day is a chance to grow personally and professionally in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment. If you''re passionate, hardworking, and eager to learn, we want to hear from you!

The Behavioral Research Internship is designed to introduce interns to applied research techniques in the field of informal education, animal behavior, and its evaluation. Interns will learn and implement a variety of research methods to collect data and analyze results to evaluate educational programming and its goal to invite, inform, and inspire the guests of ZooTampa to promote conservation. Interns will also learn how to collect animal behavior data and assist in the implementation of animal behavior studies.

Learning Outcomes:

• Interns will learn behavioral observation techniques for studying both guest and animal behavior.
• Interns will learn research methods required to conduct an independent research project, including formulating research questions/concepts, developing evaluation tools, data collection, analyzing results, and how to present findings.
• Interns will learn how to develop and conduct effective surveying.
• Interns will learn interpretive communication techniques for discussing research in a zoo setting with guests.
• Interns will learn techniques for data analysis.
• Interns will learn how to utilize various forms of technology (Tablets, computer programs, etc.) to collect and analyze data.

Qualifications:

• Possess strong interpersonal communication skills.
• Possess a sincere desire to work on projects related to both guests and animals.
• Ability to effectively work independently, and within a team environment.
• Must be able to multi-task.
• Must have the ability to follow specific instructions and also be comfortable self-directing.

Required Availability:

• Must be able to commit to an approximately 18 week internship
• Must be able to commit to a schedule that is between 16 and 24 hours each week, including at least one weekend day. Workdays are typically 4-8 hours. Individual schedules will be discussed with selected candidates to account for intern availability.
• Must be available to attend Intern Orientation on January 19, 2027.

Additional Requirements:

• All offers are contingent on the successful completion of a criminal background screening and execution of a required hold harmless/liability release agreement.

• Candidate will be responsible for the cost of the background check (typically $25, but certain jurisdictions may have additional fees)

• Interns must have personal health insurance coverage for illness or injury (as volunteers and interns are not covered by the Zoo workers' compensation program).

• Candidates seeking academic credit must have arrangements agreed upon between the Zoo and their school before beginning the internship.

Who is eligible?

Applicants must be 18 years or older. College students looking to meet academic requirements are welcome to apply, however current or recent enrollment is not required for consideration for this program. Applicants must submit an Internship Application in order to be considered. Resume and cover letters are optional.

International Internship Eligibility Requirements:

Please note that ZooTampa is unable to offer sponsorship for student or work visas for this internship position.

Only applicants who are legally authorized to work in the United States without requiring sponsorship will be considered.

Please Note: This is an unpaid internship. This internship does not include any direct contact with animals. Interns must make their own accommodation and transportation arrangements.