Ecological Impacts of Invasive Species Graduate Internship

Company Description

Since our founding in 1961, WWF has been committed to protecting nature and its resources. We understand that nature is our planet’s greatest asset, intrinsically linked to human survival — and that it needs our help. Our work to reverse nature loss and conserve biodiversity has never been more urgent.

As the world’s leading conservation organization—with offices on six continents and in nearly 100 countries—our global reach includes the world’s most critical forests, river systems, wetlands, savannas, and ocean habitats. By conserving these places and supporting sustainable livelihoods within them, we can keep the Earth in balance for people, wildlife, and the planet.

Job Description

World Wildlife Fund (WWF), one of the world’s leading conservation organizations, seeks a Ecological Impacts of Invasive Species Graduate Intern.

Position Summary

WWF's Markets Institute has been leading an effort to explore market-based solutions to address invasive species. The team completed a deep dive into the pet food market potential and ecological impact of market demand for invasive carp. In April, we released a 'market use for invasive species' framework laying out how to examine the potential of using invasives in markets from both a business and ecological impact. However, we now want to understand and categorize the threat of invasives more broadly. There is research on individual species, but little broad understanding of how pervasive invasive species are worldwide.

Responsibilites

We are looking for a graduate intern to help categorize this by establishing:

1. what the total biomass of invasive species is worldwide and how that compares to other entities, like wildlife mammals;
2. total population of invasive species compared to native wildlife;
3. percent of animals and plants that are invasive in key targeted geographies.

Compensation

Unpaid. For all unpaid internships, applicants must be enrolled in school and be able to obtain academic course credit from their university. 

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

Only enrolled students are eligible for this internship as you must be able to receive academic credit from your current academic institution. Able to work either part time or full time, depending on class schedule and availability.

• Strong research skills
• Analytical thinker
• Interest in food, agriculture, and/or sustainability
• Identifies and aligns with WWF’s core values:
  • COURAGE – We demonstrate courage through our actions, we work for change where it’s needed, and we inspire people and institutions to tackle the greatest threats to nature and the future of the planet, which is our home.
  • INTEGRITY – We live the principles we call on others to meet. We act with integrity, accountability, and transparency, and we rely on facts and science to guide us and to ensure that we learn and evolve.
  • RESPECT – We honor the voices and knowledge of people and communities that we serve, and we work to secure their rights to a sustainable future.
  • COLLABORATION – We deliver impact at the scale of the challenges we face through the power of collective action and innovation.

Additional Information

Please note: Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. This position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship.  In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. 

World Wildlife Fund (WWF) promotes equal employment opportunities for all qualified individuals regardless of age, race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law.