Ocean Policy Intern- Washington, D.C.
Organization: Marine Conservation Institute
Job Title: Ocean Policy Intern
Location: Washington, D.C.
Hours and Compensation: 40 hours/week; unpaid. Internships are on a volunteer basis. No benefits or relocation costs are provided, except standard holidays falling during the internship term. We are willing to work with interns and their universities to obtain academic credit for internship work. Opportunities for independent research in marine conservation should be discussed at the time of interview.
Position Dates (if applicable): May 2012 – September 2012
Application Deadline: April 13, 2012
Posted on: March 23, 2012
Organization Overview
Marine Conservation Institute is a non-profit scientific and conservation advocacy organization that works to promote the protection and restoration of the Earth’s biological diversity. From our headquarters in Bellevue WA and our Washington DC and California offices, we work to protect marine life around the United States and beyond by encouraging research and training in marine conservation biology, bringing scientists together to examine crucial marine conservation issues, conducting policy research to frame the marine conservation agenda, leading outreach efforts to educate scientists, the public, and decision makers on key issues, and building partnerships to solve problems affecting marine life and people.
Description
Marine Conservation Institute’s internship program provides motivated and academically-promising students an opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in a real‐world arena. During their internship, students work closely with science and policy staff on cutting edge issues in marine conservation biology and ocean policy. Most of the internship opportunities are geared towards graduate students or students who have recently completed graduate degrees, although we have on occasion developed opportunities for undergraduates to work on pressing marine conservation issues.
For internship positions, we seek individuals with excellent communication skills, substantive knowledge or professional experience in marine or environmental science or policy, and who share our commitment to the preservation of marine life and biological diversity. We also prefer candidates who have a demonstrated ability to work independently, with minimal direct supervision.
Working out of our DC office, policy interns have the opportunity to work closely with our policy staff to gain important skills in conservation advocacy. Previous policy interns have had the opportunity to assist with establishing National Monuments and our National Marine Sanctuaries Reauthorization efforts. Policy interns have described their internship experience as being important for learning about lobbying and the legislative process and for understanding more about packaging science for Federal decision makers. These internships coincide with the academic calendar.
Responsibilities
Internship activities include:
- Conducting research on US marine policy
- Setting lobbying appointments with congressional staffers
- Accompanying Marine Conservation Institute staff on visits to the Hill/agencies and keeping records of visits
- Staying abreast of and briefing staff on marine conservation news
- Preparing educational materials and fact sheets
- Providing administrative support (answer phones, file, purchase office supplies, open & distribute mail, computer troubleshoot, etc.). This constitutes approximately 20% of the intern’s time.
How to Apply:
To apply to the internships, please send the following material via e-mail to [email protected]. The application deadline is April 13, but review of applications will begin immediately. Please reference the internship title and your name in the subject line:
- A cover letter detailing your interests, relevant experience, goals and availability;
- A résumé;
- A writing sample (1-2 pages);
- A course list detailing applicable coursework experience;
- And a list of 3 references.
Please no calls.
