Job Opportunities

Adelson Library Coordinator--13172

The Adelson Library officially opened in May 2004. Cornell's 20th library contains a rich array of historical and contemporary ornithological materials, including an extensive collection of monographs and journals. The library is named in honor of university trustee Ellen G. Adelson '58, in recognition of her gift to underwrite its construction.   

The Communications & Marketing Program at the Lab of Ornithology is seeking a Coordinator for the Adelson Library.  Duties include:  

• Working under the direction of the Director of Marketing, Cornell Lab of Ornithology (CLO) & Head of Collection Development, Mann Library, manage and coordinate the day-to-day operations of the Adelson Library by providing assistance in the following areas: information and access services, administration, and collection development and management. 
• Develop reports and statistics based on activity accounts for the library and participate in the operational planning and development activities in conjunction with supervisors. 
• Hire, train, and supervise student employees and volunteers.
• Monitor physical facilities, including equipment, shelving, and collections in collaboration with CLO Facilities Manager. 
• Help implement and manage various automated and networked support systems.
• Responsible for opening, closing, and security of the library facility. 
• Manage the Adelson Library web site. 
• Implement procedures and interpret policies and guidelines related to the services of the Adelson Library.
• Provide information and access services to the CLO community. 
• Facilitate the selection of new books, serials, audiovisuals, electronic and other networked resources and historical materials for the collection. 
• Assist with the journal exchange program, in collaboration with CLO member services.
• Attend bimonthly reference meetings at Mann Library to keep informed about new information resources. 
• Participate in library and ornithology committees and meetings. Collaborate with CU Library Technical Services to coordinate processing and collection management of materials.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree or other formal training program of four years;  1-2 years experience in a library or Public Services setting or equivalent. 
• Ability to work with a wide variety of people.
• Attention to detail, knowledge of the research process.
• Excellent communication and analytical skills, including the ability to work independently and within a larger work group in a rapidly evolving environment.
• Solid competence with personal computers, standard word-processing & spreadsheet software, information retrieval software, and network navigation tools.
• Experience in managing web pages.

• Demonstrated interest in life sciences and contemporary trends in library and information science.
• Interest in innovation and professional development. 
• Subject background in Ornithology or Life Sciences. 
• Previous supervisory experience.
• Knowledge of Cornell accounting processes.

Electrical Technician -- 13075

The Bioacoustics Research Program (BRP) at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology (CLO) is seeking a full-time Electrical Technician. BRP integrates the fields of behavioral biology, electrical engineering, and software engineering to answer questions regarding animal communication and behavior by developing and utilizing acoustic and radio frequency instrumentation and related software to monitor and analyze populations of threatened and endangered species.

• Under general direction of the Technology Director and other electrical engineers: construct, test, evaluate and document hardware and software tools for research initiatives.
• Repair, assemble, and evaluate instrumentation that incorporates both through-hole and surface-mount components. 
• Develop and utilize test procedures. 
• Conduct bench and field testing.
• Document current and new systems, including drafting mechanical drawings and creating bills of materials. 
• Maintain engineering laboratory and machine shop workspaces. 
• Work with other members of the engineering, marketing and production teams to transition viable designs to production.
• A high degree of importance is placed upon system reliability, durability, and usability.
• Interface with internal and external users and researchers to ensure equipment will meet research objectives. 
• Occasionally assist the production team with the assembly, refurbishment, testing, and repair of marine recording equipment and other research gear in the field and in the lab as needed. 
• Create, submit, and maintain standard operating procedures for testing, preparation, deployment, and recovery of marine acoustic equipment. 
• Create and maintain training materials and user documentation for the operation and maintenance of marine equipment. 
• Train and/or provide technical assistance to researchers that are using acoustic data collection equipment in the field. 
• Provide on-call telephone support as required by researchers in the field. 
• Develop quality assurance practices and procedures and participate in best practices meetings and trainings as needed.
• Follow established lab safety procedures and ensure a safe working environment both in the lab and in the field.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer technologies, or related field/formal training program of four years or equivalent. 
• 4-6 years or equivalent experience. 
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. 
• Solid understanding of electrical and mechanical systems.
• Experience in electrical systems assembly, repair, and testing - particularly soldering through-hole and surface-mount components.
• Must have an extensive understanding of lab and field safety and have demonstrated ability to make sound, safe decisions while working in dynamic environments in which many activities are occurring simultaneously. 
• Basic understanding of safety gear requirements and use.
• Must have strong verbal and written communication skills and demonstrated customer service skills. 
• Must have a working knowledge of computer languages/architectures, and communication protocols.
• Must be able to work collaboratively with other members of the engineering team. 
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a valid driver's license and passport. 
• Ability to occasionally perform field work, sometimes in remote areas for extended periods of time.
• Must be able to travel domestically and internationally.
•  Preferred Qualifications:
• Experience with assembly language programming, DSP and micro-controller development, CAD tools, circuit simulation software, or LabView.
• Experience in the scientific process.
• Experience building equipment capable of collecting data suitable for signal processing and statistical analyses.

Graphic Designer--13117

The Communications and Marketing Program promotes the Lab's mission by distributing research findings and other Lab news to the media.  We serve as guardian of the Lab's image and interests by handling permissions, requests, and contractual agreements relating to Lab resources.  We are responsible for the sale of Lab audio guides and slide images, a vital means of unrestricted income and a unique way to promote the Lab's mission.

  The Communications and Marketing Program at the Lab of Ornithology is seeking a Lead Graphic Designer.  Duties include:  

• Responsible for print, design, and production at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, from concept to final delivery.
• Collaborate with design director, editor, and clients (project leaders and other Lab staff) to determine project needs and goals.
• Conceptualize, develop design, create layout, and prepare print materials for production, including four-color newsletters, curricula, citizen science research kits, brochures, posters, displays, flyers, books, magazine ads, promotional materials, and CD/DVD liners and labels.
• Create graphics for web and video.
• Collaborate with design director to ensure visual integrity of the Lab brand.
• Work independently, meet deadlines, and update collaborators/clients on project status.
• Verify product meets Lab standards for quality and professionalism before sending to printer.
• Supervise volunteers and interns.

  Required Qualifications:

• Associate's degree, technical/vocational school degree or equivalent; 2-3 years of experience. 
• At least 3-5 years of experience using these key Adobe products in a production environment is required: InDesign, PhotoShop, Illustrator. 
• At least 3-5 years of experience designing materials for print using CMYK, one-, and two-color processes. 
• Knowledge of Macintosh operating systems essential. 
• Must be personable and possess excellent organizational skills. 
• Demonstrable skills in problem solving and critical thinking. 
• Excellent oral and written communication skills with the ability to convey technical information in "laymen's terms."  
• Must be able to work independently and as part of a team while meeting tight deadlines, while at the same time creating a high-quality and respectful work environment. 
• Must be able to help establish realistic goals and deliver work on schedule.
• Excellent customer service skills and demonstrated ability to communicate and interact with a variety of different audiences is essential.
• Ability to work quickly, effectively under pressure, use judgment in accomplishing tasks that are urgent; balance conflicting priorities, and make decisions from a range of choices. 
• Must be comfortable working in an environment where change in process is the norm.
• This position has a high level of responsibility and requires a designer with creative ideas, expansive capacity, excellent interpersonal skills, and considerable flexibility.

• An understanding and appreciation of birds and bird-watching, nature, or biology highly desired.
• Additional computer and design training above the minimum requirements highly desired.
• Proficiency in DreamWeaver or Flash a plus. Knowledge of web design practices and principles a plus.

Multimedia Producer -- 13087

The Cornell Lab’s Multimedia program is a full-scale video production group specializing in science and natural history editorial content – documentary films, educational materials and general interest internet media – that has been established to support the educational and outreach components of the Lab’s mission.

The Multimedia Program at the Lab of Ornithology is seeking a Multimedia Producer.  Duties include:  

• Develop and produce factual programming and content “modules” for online broadband and broadcast distribution.
• Responsible for all creative and production elements of assigned projects including, but not limited to:  developing story concepts, executing story research, conducting field scouts, formalizing production plans, generating final story proposals for approval and personally directing assigned projects through development, production and post production phases. 
• Contribute stylistic and technical knowledge to each assigned production through their highly skilled shooting and editing experience. 
• Manage the designated budget, production crew, editorial decisions and deliverables (in conjunction with program Director and support staff). 
• Ensure that project meets all schedule milestones, is completed on budget, and meets the editorial standards set forth by the Program Director. 
• Responsible for detailed shoot schedules and plans, identifying locations, subjects to be captured and the relevant logistical needs associated with executing shooting schedules. 
• Advise, recommend and secure human resources and technical equipment needed for natural history shooting, per the demands of each project. 
• Advise on colleagues work as requested, for guidance with concept development, production planning and execution. 

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, film/video production, or relevant field, based on Program goals, with 3-5 years of experience or equivalent. 
• Must have strong research and writing skills, and be able to identify and develop potential stories, themes and characters. 
• Solid knowledge of production and post-production, including a working familiarity w/edit & graphic systems. 
• Possess excellent organizational, editorial, and oral/written communication skills and solid journalistic practices. 
• Demonstrable skills in problem solving and critical thinking.
• Must be able to work independently and as part of a team while meeting tight deadlines. 
• Must be able to help establish realistic goals and deliver work on schedule often with competing program needs. 
• Demonstrated ability to communicate with a broad range of people is essential. 
• Personable demeanor and diplomacy, and ability to interact with a variety of different audiences. 
• Ability to work well with others while creating a high quality and respectful work environment. 
• The successful candidate will be able to adapt to a changing office environment as the Multimedia Program evolves.

• Experience producing science and natural history-related content.
• Demonstrable experience with cinematography, location and studio lighting, and the operation of High-Definition professional format video cameras including HDCAM and HDV.
• Experience editing on Final Cut Pro or Avid platforms. 
• Proficiency editing HD content with Final Cut Pro Studio is preferred along with an understanding of media storage and project management on a shared network. 
• Technically savvy with an ability to manage and administer the technical production workflow from pre- to post.
• Interest and ability to understand emerging technologies as they relate to the production and distribution of media. 
• Experience preparing media for multiple channels of delivery– from television broadcast to DVD and the Internet.  This includes a familiarity with video codes and compression, and the use of related applications– Episode Pro, Compressor, Squeeze, etc. 
• Familiarity with DVD authoring using DVD Studio Pro (or similar).
• Experience with motion graphic and design applications including After Effects, Photoshop, Flash, Motion, and Illustrator.
• Must be willing to travel internationally as productions dictate. 
• Proficiency with Spanish will be helpful.

Post Doctoral Associate --12951

This postdoctoral associate will come on board during the final year of an NSF grant entitled, "Delayed dispersal: teasing apart the effects of resources and parents." Manage long-term spatial data set on western bluebird demography, ecology, and behavior. Specifically, work with the PI to analyze data to examine demographic and resource contributions to delayed dispersal and the connection between resources/delayed dispersal and subsequent survival/reproductive success. Work closely with the principal investigator to prepare publications on various aspects of the Western bluebird project, including papers on spatial genetics, landscape determinants of dispersal patterns, inbreeding/incest avoidance, The data include demographic data from 1985 on and six years of microsatellite data which can be used in collaboration with a former postdoc. Manage new data coming in from the field.

The responsibilities of this position include: data analysis and writing of scientific papers; potential mentorship of graduate students and supervision of other lab group members including undergraduate and postgraduate interns; attendance at seminars and lab meetings. Skills required for these duties include database programming, MARK modeling, ArcGIS or Manifold programming, and advanced statistical analytical skills. Prior experience with field studies of passerine birds; strong communication skills; and efficient scientific writing. Applicants to provide a resume with contact information for 3 references.

Required: PhD required (in behavioral or evolutionary ecology, or related discipline preferred). Experience with GIS and demographic analysis is critical. A demonstrated ability to design, implement, and complete demographic analysis focused on questions related to dispersal, behavior, and genetics is essential.

Preferred: Experience with microsatellite typing and analysis is a plus. Proficiency in spoken and written English is desirable. A strong track-record of generating peer-reviewed scientific publications is strongly preferred. Experience with field studies of passerine mating systems is preferred.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Send a letter of application, complete resume, list of references and academic transcripts to: Susan Taggart, Cornell Lab of Ornithology, 159 Sapsucker Woods Road, 283A Johnson Center for Birds & Biodiversity, Ithaca, NY 14850. Inquiries about position specifics can be directed to Janis Dickinson, Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Ithaca, NY 14850. Phone: 607-254-2194; Email jld84@cornell.edu. Review of applicants will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

Project Leader, NestWatch/Nestcams/CamClickr -- 13148

The Citizen Science program at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology seeks a dynamic individual trained in ecology to lead its NestWatch project (www.NestWatch.org). We are looking for a scientist with a strong interest in and commitment to education and outreach.  Will be expected to build partnerships with public and nongovernmental conservation organizations, expand the participant base for the project by collaborating with the Cornell Lab's Communications and Marketing group, and take advantage of opportunities that arise to promote the project by giving enthusiastic presentations to expand the audience.  The Cornell Lab has a strong commitment to Citizen Science and NestWatch is one of its pillar monitoring projects, designed to gather fundamental information on reproductive success of birds across the continent.  Future interests also include expansion into Central and South America and the Caribbean.  The ideal candidate will have a strong background in bird biology with potential to become a dynamic leader and voice for NestWatch.  Also required is a strong interest in informal science education and outreach through NestWatch and its associated NestCams and CamClickr projects, also managed by the project leader.  Develop the technical skill to expand web resources, collaborate with NestCam partners to set up new Cams or update old ones and with Citizen Science's IT team to improve the web resources, web design, and dynamic mapping tools, and coordinate efforts to seek funding for bringing historic data from Nest Record Cards into the database.  Dedication and enthusiasm for bird conservation are a must as are the ability to multi-task and handle a variety of initiatives in a self-directed fashion.

Duties include:

• Serve as Project Leader for NestWatch, NestCams, and CamClickr, a group of citizen-science projects involving thousands of participants in the study of cavity-nesting birds with multiple levels of engagement, including online and real nature experiences.
• Coordinate all aspects of project delivery. 
• Provide or guide participant support for nest monitoring.
• Provide guidance on entering data. 
• Support participants using the CamClickr to catalogue online images of nests. 
• Maintain the NestCam forum. 
• Keep the director apprised of new developments with and changes to the project. 
• Develop content for, revise, and oversee maintenance of the interactive web site and data entry system. 
• Collaborate with web programmers, a web designer, and communications staff to ensure data accessibility and promotion of the project in the media, including the popular literature. 
• Participate in a research agenda within the citizen science program to further publication of results in the scientific literature. 
• Potential to collaborate on scientific publication of results.
• Coordinate all interactions with project participants and recruitment. 
• Manage the project budget.
• Assist the director and development/marketing staff to promote the project and raise funds for project continuation.

Annual term appointment with possibility of renewal based upon availability of funding and performance.   Applicants to provide  resume and contact information for 3 references.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelors in Biology, natural resources, or related field; more than 2 but less than 3 years experience or equivalent.
• At least two years experience in ecological field research, including some data analysis, along with demonstrated understanding of research methodology and field-based science education. 
• Understanding and experience with nesting biology of birds is important to this position. 
• Experience in writing and designing educational programs for the public or experience assisting with undergraduate teaching.
• Proven skills in project management and coordination are essential, along with excellent communication skills, including writing and public speaking.
• Good working knowledge of current software, such as Word, InDesign, Excel, Pagemaker, and plone or net community (html) is required. 

• Advanced degree highly preferred.
• Familiarity and proficiency with the World Wide Web are very important, along with a strong interest in using the web as a tool to conduct research and educate the public. 
• A recent Masters or PhD in ecology could work within this position to split time between extension responsibilities and collaboration with the Director of Citizen Science and citizen science research staff to study geographic and temporal variation in breeding success at continental or regional scales.

Web Content Manager--13118

The Web Content Manager plays a key role in furthering the mission of the Cornell Lab of Ornithology by maintaining its high-traffic informational resources All About Birds, Living Bird, BirdScope, and the Lab's home page, which receive more than 4.5 million unique visitors per year.

The Communications & Marketing Program at the Lab of Ornithology seeks a Web Content Manager.  Duties include:  

• Responsible for maintaining and expanding text, photo, audio, and video assets for more than 580 North American bird profiles and online archives of the Cornell Lab's primary outreach publications, including AllAboutBirds.org, Living Bird magazine, BirdScope newsletter, and the Lab's home page at www.birds.cornell.edu.
• Refresh/add content to site home pages weekly, on magazine issue pages quarterly, and on bird species profiles on an ongoing basis.
• Manage assets and update schedules using spreadsheets.
• Make changes to website using content management systems including extensive use of basic to intermediate html.
• Find, organize, edit, and store photo assets.
• Create simple but attractive graphics using photos combined with graphical elements in Photoshop.
• Use knowledge of bird identification to select and annotate photos with accuracy.
• Work may include headline writing and writing and/or editing of new species profiles.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree or other formal training program of 4 years or equivalent; 1 to 2 years experience or equivalent. 
• Strong background of course work or equivalent experience with birds and online communications.
• Must be extremely organized, efficient, and have the highest standards for grammatical and visual consistency, function, accuracy, and photo quality.
• Ability to meet deadlines is essential. Proficiency in Microsoft office applications.
• At least one year of experience with HTML, CSS and Photoshop.
• Proven ability to work in a team environment where cooperation between colleagues and flexibility to different styles and approaches is required.

• Extensive experience with North American birds and bird identification.
• Familiarity with social networks and other new media.
• Ability to write short, clear headlines or teasers for home page content desirable.
• Experience in providing scientific content to the general public on the Web is helpful, as is experience in multimedia presentation.

Conservation Biologist

Postdoctoral Associate

DESCRIPTION:

• Leadership role in designing and implementing analyses that use a variety of spatially explicit genetic, monitoring, and habitat data to understand the habitat-use patterns and consequent interactions of Golden-winged Warblers and Blue-winged Warblers across their range.
• Quantify potential habitat differences among Golden-winged Warblers, Blue-winged Warblers, and their hybrids.
• Link these patterns with genetic information on hybridization dynamics.
• Develop a range-wide hybrid atlas to better understand the impact of hybridization on Golden-winged Warbler reproductive biology.
• Map critically important areas for conservation based on levels of Golden-winged Warbler "genetic purity" and habitat availability.
• Identify habitat features and management actions that potentially favor Golden-winged Warblers and limit hybridization with Blue-winged Warblers.
• The primary duties of this research position involve the quantitative analysis and interpretation of genetic hybridization data as well as landscape- and territory-level habitat data and their relationships to patterns of hybridization.
• Work collaboratively with a large group of professional conservation biologists with a range of specialties, ranging from avian genetics to land management, both within and outside of the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.
• Present results at professional meetings, conferences, and popular seminars.
• Write and prepare peer-reviewed papers and other research and conservation products.
• Participate in project management including working directly with project collaborators throughout the range of the Golden-winged Warbler.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• PhD in ecology, wildlife biology, evolutionary biology, genetics, or related field with strong quantitative experience and skills in landscape ecology, relevant to understanding spatial and habitat-use patterns of birds.
• Ability to incorporate genetic data into ecological analyses is essential.
• Passion for linking rigorous basic research with pressing conservation needs.
• Applicant should have a strong background in spatial statistics.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Familiarity with GIS applications, ecological niche modeling, and/or the evolutionary ecology of hybridization is useful.
• Candidates with a strong record of impact and productivity in their research are preferred.

Research Internships

Research Assistant, Bird-of-Paradise Behavior

The Australo-papuan birds-of-paradise (Paradisaeidae) are one of the most remarkable examples of sexually selected biodiversity in the world. Work with research scientists and curatorial staff in the Biodiversity Video Archive in the Macaulay Library to annotate and analyze the most comprehensive collection of bird-of-paradise video footage in the world. We are looking for enthusiastic research assistants to help us with a long-term comparative study of courtship display behavior and evolution in this extraordinary group of birds. The position involves using computer video software to analyze and describe components of courtship display in different species, using the Macaulay Library's searchable online catalog and data entry software to proof, edit, and annotate video specimen data records, and assisting video archival staff with curatorial tasks related to digital video specimen preparation and long-term preservation. Basic computer and organizational skills required. Strong attention to detail desired. A background in comparative biology, animal behavior, and ornithology preferable. Experience with video editing software is desirable but not required. Work hours are flexible. Volunteer internships, course credit, and work-study opportunities. Transportation from campus to the Lab of Ornithology available. To apply, send an email outlining your interests and experience to Edwin Scholes [es269@cornell.edu].

Programmer: Dynamic Tools for Exploring Data, Science, and Nature

Volunteer Avian Monitoring Interns for Sapsucker Woods

The Cornell Lab of Ornithology seeks two to four interns to be involved in ongoing avian studies of Sapsucker Woods Sanctuary in Ithaca, New York. Interns will gain experience studying breeding birds through nest searching and monitoring, banding nestlings, spot-mapping, and conducting point counts. No experience is necessary, but an earnest interest in building a strong skill set in ornithological skills is essential. Tolerance of buggy, humid mornings a plus. Successful applicants will be able to work at least four mornings/week from dawn til noon from May to July. There is no stipend or accommodation available for these positions, but it is a great opportunity to gain ornithological experience. Please send CV and cover letter explaining your interest in this position and describing your birding experience to Charles Eldermire [cre9@cornell.edu], public education outreach associate, manager of Sapsucker Woods and Johnson Visitors' Center, Cornell Lab of Ornithology.

Volunteer Research Intern, Incubation Behavior

A volunteer intern is needed at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology during the academic year to assist in the analysis of incubation behavior of bluebirds. The position involves using several software tools to process and summarize the details of female incubation behavior as recorded by temperature probes that were placed in birds' nests across the country. The work requires attention to detail and decision-making initiative. Rides on a direct shuttle van between Corson Mudd and Sapsucker Woods will be available to interns. Interns may use this project to develop their own undergraduate research project for credit (BIO 299 or 499). Basic computer skills, advanced organizational abilities (i.e., working with linked computer files in organized subdirectories), and experience with MS Excel are required. Familiarity with bioacoustics software is advantageous. Send an email message expressing your interest and including contact information of two references to Caren Cooper [cbc25 cornell.edu].

Technical/Curatorial Internships

Curatorial Assistant, Biodiversity Video Archive

Interested in birds, biodiversity, and animal behavior? Find satisfaction in organizing things and maintaining good records? Do you have experience working with digital video? Would you enjoy reviewing video clips to identifying animals and annotating animal behavior? If so, then you might like to join the biodiversity video curatorial team in the Cornell Lab’s Macaulay Library. As a natural science collection of video recordings documenting animal behavior and biodiversity, we are looking for motivated individuals eager to learn about and help curate our unique video archive. Opportunities include assisting curatorial staff to organize, store and preserve videotape, film, DVDs, and data records; reviewing metadata for video specimens using our online catalog and data entry tools; assisting with the preparation of new materials for accessioning into the archive; learning technical aspects of video editing and archival by digitally capturing videotape for long-term preservation; helping prepare video specimens by using computer editing software to scan raw footage to parse out individual clips; reviewing clips to identify birds, mammals, fish, herps, insects and invertebrates; and using mapping tools to "geo-reference" video specimens. Basic computer and organizational skills required. Strong attention to detail desired. A background in biology, especially animal behavior and/or ornithology, is a plus. Demonstrated ability to use field guides and other resources to identify birds and/or other animals, and/or experience with video editing software is desirable but not required. Work hours are flexible. Volunteer internships, course credit, and work-study opportunities. Transportation from campus to the Lab of Ornithology available. To apply, send an email outlining your interests and experience to Edwin Scholes [es269@cornell.edu].

Curatorial Assistant, Cornell University Museum of Vertebrates

The Cornell University Museum of Vertebrates is in an unprecedented and exciting period of growth in its more than century-long history. Learn about the behind-the-scenes nuts-and-bolts of a functioning scientific collection as you help us curate our bird, mammal, fish, and/or herp specimens. Identify, prepare, catalog, install, or reorganize specimens, do background research, organize inventory, develop a catalog, create publication lists, and search databases. Contact Kim Bostwick [ksb6@cornell.edu], (607) 254-2160.

Internships in Communications, Outreach, and Education

Bartels Science Illustration Internships

Because we have received many excellent applications, we will no longer accept applications for the Bartels Science Illustration Internships for 2010. If you would like to be considered for an internship starting in Spring 2011, please contact Diane Tessaglia-Hymes at the address below. Applications will be accepted through January 2011.

The Cornell Lab of Ornithology will offer three paid Bartels Science Illustration Internships during 2010, for 12 to 15 weeks, 20 hours per week. Recipients will work on a project illustrating birds, wildlife, and/or plants for the Cornell Lab of Ornithology's print publications, outreach materials, and web sites. We are seeking students (artists just starting their career) at least 18 years old who have previous experience and exceptional talent in illustration, painting, or drawing who are interested in advancing their skills in ornithological art. Interns will work on projects that help the Lab achieve its mission, and these projects often result in publication of the intern's work. For more information, please contact Diane Tessaglia-Hymes, design director, by email at dianeth@cornell.edu, or call 607-254-2417 (work) or 607-342-4811 (cell).

Communications Internship: Engaging Online Communities in Birding and Science

Education and Outreach Intern

Assist with the creation and dissemination of educational and public relations materials. Knowledge of desktop publishing and web editing required. Assist with design and publishing of materials associated with educational programming (i.e., activity sheets, booklets, posters, flyers), including interactive displays for the Cornell Lab’s largest outreach event, Migration Celebration, in May. Activity materials also will be edited for inclusion on our Education website. Depending on background and interest, intern may also help to write articles for dissemination to local media. 5-6 hours per week, January–June, 3-month minimum. Contact Anne Rosenberg [baj3@cornell.edu], (607) 254-2109.

Naturalist Intern

Lead educational nature walks; lead or assist with educational programs and activities. Assist in creating and assembling educational materials. Interest in nature and comfort working with children, especially those in grades K–5, required. Variable hours, depending on programming schedule, but primarily April–June. Availability for weekdays in June required. Contact Anne Rosenberg [baj3@cornell.edu], (607)254-2109.

Communication Research Internship, Education Program

Cornell Lab of Ornithology educators are looking for an undergraduate major in Communication or a related field to analyze the content of online discussions between adult learners participating in multi-week online courses facilitated by a Lab of Ornithology instructor. Through courses such as Courtship and Rivalry in Birds, informal learners interact with multimedia tutorials and simulations, which they then discuss to formalize their learning about behavioral ecology, evolution, and bird biology. We are interested in analyzing and coding anonymized student and instructor postings to investigate questions about effective ways to facilitate online discussion and to look for evidence of various types of student learning. We can offer guidance into the types of questions and methods we would like to see applied, but there is great opportunity to shape the direction of this research and possibly participate in future publications resulting from these analyses. This position is posted as either an unpaid part-time internship or a 4000-level independent study project co-advised by Education program staff at the Lab and a professor from the Department of Communication. It might also be an appropriate for an individual or small team enrolled in a graduate or undergraduate Communication course and looking for a real-world project experience. There may be an opportunity for more hours and/or conversion to paid part-time employment in the spring semester or summer. Required qualifications include interest in educational applications of online discussion boards and some knowledge of communication research methods. Please direct questions or applications to Colleen McLinn.

Events Planning Intern

Assist with organization of the Lab’s largest local outreach event, Migration Celebration. Duties may include helping to assemble and create educational materials, coordination of volunteers and staff, and various activities related to educational event planning. 5–10 hours per week February through May. Contact Anne Rosenberg [baj3@cornell.edu], (607)254-2109.

Feature Writing Intern, Education Program

BirdSleuth and Crossing Boundaries are science curriculum resources aimed at engaging students in innovative science experiences in class, online, and outdoors. The intern will have opportunities to write full length articles, short stories, and blogs, develop flyers, brochures, displays, and press releases, and create in-house publications such as lesson plans and online content. Experience/Coursework in feature writing and journalism required. Flexible schedule, 8 hrs/wk, Monday-Friday 8-5, at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Please send cover letter, resume, and contact information for at least two references to Courtney Wilson at crw74@cornell.edu. Visit www.birdsleuth.net and www.crossingboundaries.org for more information about our programs.

Online Resource Developer, Education Program

Online Research in Biology is an undergraduate curriculum development project at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology aimed at supporting faculty at all types of institutions in engaging their students in research using online datasets about birds, their behavior, and their habitats. We are seeking a creative and determined undergraduate intern to help create tutorials, screencasts, powerpoint shows and other web resources aimed at undergraduates, focused on step-by-step interaction with Cornell Lab of Ornithology online resources such as eBird, Macaulay Library, Raven Lite, and Science Pipes. This position is posted as either an unpaid part-time internship or as a 4000-level independent study project co-advised by Education program staff and a professor affiliated with the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. There may be an opportunity for more hours and/or conversion to paid part-time employment in the spring semester or summer. Interest in developing creative applications of information and communications technologies is required, and working knowledge of screencasting software such as Camtasia or Adobe Captivate is preferred. Visit http://birds.cornell.edu/orb for more information on the project, and please direct questions or applications to Colleen McLinn.

Physics Education Internship, Education Program

Physics of Animal Behavior is a curriculum development project at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology aimed at supporting K-12 physics and life science teachers in engaging their students in understanding physics principles about sound and light waves, force and motion, using multimedia examples of birds and other examples found in the Macaulay Library . We are seeking an undergraduate intern with a solid understanding of high school or introductory college physics and an interest in education to help edit, organize, illustrate, and publish to the web draft lesson plans on topics such as elephant, whale, cricket, and bird sound production, bird flight, and production of iridescent colors.   This position is posted as either an unpaid part-time internship or as a 4000-level independent study project co-advised by Education program staff and a professor affiliated with the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. There may be an opportunity for more hours and/or conversion to paid part-time employment in the spring semester or summer. Background knowledge in high school or introductory undergraduate physics combined with an interest in animals is required. Working knowledge of web content management systems such as Plone, and photo editing software such as Adobe Photoshop is preferred. Visit http://macaulaylibrary.org/physics for more information on the project, and please direct questions or applications to Colleen McLinn.

Science Education Resource Developer, Education Program

BirdSleuth and Crossing Boundaries are science curriculum resources aimed at engaging students in innovative science experiences in class, online, and outdoors. The intern will design and produce technology-intensive resources for our science curriculum potentially including, Google Earth tours, custom species guides, teacher support resources, and participating in discussions about creating compelling technology curriculum resources. The candidate must be a current undergraduate student with experience and/or coursework in communication technologies. Flexible schedule, 8 hrs/wk, Monday-Friday 8-5, at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Please send cover letter, resume, and contact information for at least two references to Courtney Wilson at crw74@cornell.edu. Visit www.birdsleuth.net and www.crossingboundaries.org for more information about our programs.

Marketing Research Intern

Assist in compiling identity and value information of target audiences and lists of their associated social networks in assigned geographic regions. 8-10 hours per week, spring and fall semesters. Contact Mary Guthrie [msg21@cornell.edu], (607) 254-2157.

Web Intern

Help with two Cornell Lab of Ornithology websites: the Education site and the BirdSleuth site. Assist with creation of new web pages designed to convert existing educational materials into online resources. Duties include adding and organizing content, posting news stories, and making site updates. Depending on background, also assist with developing and editing content. Creativity helpful and attention to detail required. 5-6 hours per week, indefinitely, 3-month minimum. Contact Jennifer Fee, (607)254-2403, jms327@cornell.edu.

English/Spanish Translation Intern

The Cornell Lab of Ornithology is looking for an intern to aid in the translation of bilingual English/Spanish educational and outreach materials for a set of citizen-based research and educational projects. The Celebrate Urban Birds program aims to promote science literacy in urban locations primarily among under-served audiences. For more information on the program, please visit the Celebrate Urban Birds web site. We are looking for scientifically accurate yet broadly accessible translations. Translations need to be in "universal" Spanish—accessible to Spanish-speaking individuals from a broad range of backgrounds. Work remotely or at the Johnson Center for Birds and Biodiversity. Internships are unpaid but hours are flexible and course credit is possible. Minimum commitment is generally six hours per week. To apply for an internship, send a brief cover letter and resume to Christianne White [cmw84@cornell.edu], Celebrate Urban Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology, 159 Sapsucker Woods Road, Ithaca, NY 14850. (607) 254-2123.

Education Assistant Intern, Home Study Course in Bird Biology

Help build and populate a database of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) and corresponding answers using existing responses to student questions. Organize student inquiries for the FAQ section of the Home Study Course web site. Provide assistance with packaging course materials as needed. Basic knowledge of HTML, FileMaker Pro, and Microsoft Office are helpful but not required. Interest in ornithology and/or biology is desirable. Contact Kevin McGowan [kjm2@cornell.edu], (607) 254-2452.

Print Graphic Designer, Communications Department

Gain valuable experience in print production in a busy environment. Under the supervision of the Cornell Lab's senior graphic designer, assist with projects ranging from simple one-page advertisements to detailed flyers and newsletters. The opportunity to attend press checks at printers in the region is possible, depending on the length of internship. This internship is unpaid, but flexible, and we are interested in your ideas and what you hope to gain from being at the Lab of Ornithology—opportunities for special projects exist. Some image scanning or digital photography may be required. Skills: Expertise in Adobe InDesign (CS3), Illustrator, and Photoshop is required, Flash skills a plus. Experience in 4-color design helpful. Background in ornithology or an interest in birds and/or the natural world desired. Contact Diane Tessaglia-Hymes [dlt1@cornell.edu], (607) 254-2417. If responding by email, please include a copy of your resume and three samples of your work.

Science Writer, Communications Department

Write news and feature stories for the Cornell Lab of Ornithology's magazine, newsletter, and All About Birds web site. Topics may include stories about bird research, bird watching, citizen-science project results, technology, and conservation. Interns will gain experience interviewing scientists, translating scientific literature into lively articles for the general public, and working with an editor to produce published clips. Prior coursework in journalism or some experience with news and feature writing is strongly recommended. Knowledge of birds or background in biology is a plus. The application requires a resume, cover letter, and three writing samples, preferably about scientific topics written in an engaging and accessible style. In the cover letter, please explain how the internship fits in with your career goals and why you would like to work at the Lab of Ornithology. Send applications or inquiries to Hugh Powell [hdp8@cornell.edu], All About Birds editor.

Volunteer for the Sapsucker Woods Migration Celebration

Join our team of volunteers to for this annual event celebrating International Migratory Bird Day. On Saturday, May 22, 2010, provide overall support or help with activities such as guided bird walks, children’s games and activities, interactive research exhibits. Volunteer for all or part of the day (9:30 A.M. to 3:30 P.M.) and receive a complimentary lunch and appreciation packet. To volunteer, complete our online registration form or contact Anne Rosenberg [baj3@cornell.edu] by April 20, 2010.