IMLS Scholar - Bear Research

Organization: Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden (AZA Member)

Job or Internship: Internship (paid)

Duration
:
January 2027-August 2027

Through funding by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) National Leadership Grants program, the Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife (CREW) at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is seeking to hire an IMLS Scholar. This is the third of three temporary, full-time, trainee positions associated with this award. Scholars will work 40 hr per week, supporting the goals of CREW’s Polar Bear Signature Project.

A bi-weekly salary of $1346 (approximately $35,000 annually) plus benefits will be provided.

The IMLS Scholar position offers an exceptional, immersive training opportunity for ambitious early-career scientists who are driven to excel in conservation science and wildlife research. The successful candidate will be instrumental in achieving the goals of an IMLS grant-funded project which aims to support the efforts of CREW’s Polar Bear Signature Project ((Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).). Current activities focus on developing and validating physiological monitoring tools and techniques that will both improve management of zoo bears and enhance conservation of wild bear species.

The successful candidate will work alongside and be mentored by CREW scientists (primarily Dr. Liz Brammer-Robbins, Dr. Erin Curry, and Brandon Edwards) focusing on sloth bear fecal hormone analysis and assisting with extracellular vesicle protein analysis for pregnancy detection in a model species. Scholars will receive rigorous training in laboratory techniques, physiological monitoring methods, and cutting-edge research approaches. Training may be tailored to the individual’s skillset and aptitude, as well as current project goals.

Although CREW is located on the grounds of the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, the duties associated with this role will be performed primarily in a laboratory or at a computer, with minimal direct animal interactions.

• Process fecal, blood, urine, and other biological samples with precision and accuracy.
• Conduct steroid hormone extractions and perform hormone assays (EIAs).
• Conduct scientific literature reviews to support new and ongoing research.
• Maintain sample inventories and ensure proper data management.
• Support general laboratory operations, including equipment upkeep and cleanliness.
• Participate in additional research or operational tasks as needed.
• Participate in a week-long cross-training experience at a partnering zoological research facility to broaden professional exposure to wildlife studies. (Must be willing to travel)

This fellowship-style opportunity is open to recent graduates and graduate students pursuing a career in wildlife biology, conservation, or endangered species research. Candidates from underrepresented groups and first‑generation college graduates are strongly encouraged to apply.

• Bachelor of Science degree in a related field, such as biology, animal science, zoology, or wildlife conservation;
• Completed coursework in the areas of physiology, reproduction, and/or endocrinology;
• Eager to learn with an outstanding work ethic and passionate about pursuing a career in wildlife conservation;
• Extremely detail‑oriented and organized;
• Able to multi‑task, work independently and anticipate project needs;
• Should be comfortable working with fecal samples on a regular basis;
• Must be competent with Microsoft Excel and Word;
• Prompt and reliable in the areas of attendance and performance;
• Able to work well and communicate effectively with CREW scientists, zoo staff, interns, volunteers, students, and the general public;
• Available and willing to commit to the duration of the internship.
• Laboratory experience, beyond coursework requirements;
• Experience in bioinformatics, proteomics datasets, genomics, R studio, or manuscript preparation/publishing would make a candidate exceptionally competitive for this role.

Located on the grounds of the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, the Center for Conservation and Research of…