Invertebrate Zoology Apprenticeship

STEM APPRENTICESHIPS: The San Diego Natural History Museum science research apprenticeship program provides training and mentoring in curation, imaging, databasing protocols, and collections-based research to students, to prepare them for continued advancement in biological sciences, which can translate to career pathways in academia and research, as well as biological consulting.

Entomology DEPARTMENT PROJECT DESCRIPTION: Apprentices will learn how to prepare, accession, database, image, and file scientific specimens into the Invertebrate Zoology collection. Skills in invertebrate identification, taxonomic curation, and best practices in collections management will also be gained. Depending on the experience of the apprentice, there may be an opportunity to conduct specific collections-based research and fieldwork with the Curator. Apprentices will receive daily instruction, guidance, and follow-up for all tasks assigned. Apprentice must create a report / presentation on their work at the end of the apprenticeship. This will likely be data-focused, so an interest in data and data visualization is preferable.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

• Provide support to the Collections Manager of Entomology on invertebrate specimen protocols and collections management.
• Provide assistance to the Curator of Entomology on collections-based research.
• Maintain a strong working knowledge of the insects or arachnids of San Diego County.
• Assist with invertebrate collection processing, digital specimen imaging, specimen data entry.
• Perform other duties assigned by department Curator and Collection Manager.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Interest in Entomology, natural history, and specimen collections research
• Strong communication skills with attention to detail
• Organizational skills
• Technology skills

ELIGIBILITY: Applicants must:

• Reside in San Diego County and attend a community college or university in San Diego County
• A special emphasis is placed on recruiting students in San Diego County who are members of groups underrepresented in STEM careers: including, but not limited to, individuals of African American, Asian, Latinx/Hispanic, Native American, and Pacific Islander descent.

In compliance with the San Diego Natural History Museum’s mandatory vaccination policy, the Museum requires proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 as a condition of employment. Accommodations based on medical and religious exemptions will be considered.

TERM: Spring or Summer 2024.

HOURS: Up to 250 hours total. Flexible schedule. Some remote work may be possible. No more than 29 hours a week.

PAID/UNPAID: Paid, hourly. College and university students will be paid at $18/hr. Employees enjoy free admission into all of Balboa Park’s museums as well as free admission to the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park.

WORK TO BE DONE: On-Site. Some remote fieldwork may be possible.