Project Field Research Assistant

Project TRUE Field Research Assistant

Wildlife Conservation Society – The Bronx Zoo – Education Department

Project TRUE (Teens Researching Urban Ecology) is an urban ecology research and youth development program at The Bronx Zoo. In Project TRUE, small teams of high school students are paired with a Fordham University undergraduate student, who serves as a near‑peer research mentor, to conduct field research. Research topics range from bird behavior and mammal diversity to invasive species management and water quality.

Throughout the summer, students learn and put into practice research and science communication skills. Interns continue this work in the fall portion of the program while expanding on their research projects while learning more in‑depth research skills through field trips, lessons, and workshops. Learn more here:

• Summer:
  Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays 9:30 am – 4:00 pm (June 30 – Aug 20)
• Fall:
  Saturdays 9:30 am – 4:00 pm (Sept 12 – Dec 19; plus one Saturday in January 2027 for final presentations)

Summer: stipend of $750 (lump sum) or $17.00 /hour through SYEP, if eligible. Fall: stipend of $350 (lump sum). OMNY travel cards can be provided to students without school‑issued cards.

• With guidance from your mentor and program staff, you will learn how to design an authentic research project and conduct ecological field research.
• You will learn and practice field research and data collection techniques such as using camera traps, collection nets, plant surveys, point counts, etc.
• You will contribute to ongoing research projects that improve our understanding of NYC wildlife and ecosystems.
• You will have the opportunity to collaborate and interact with Wildlife Conservation Society and Fordham University staff.
• You will learn to analyze and synthesize your data and present research findings to the scientific community and the general public.
• You will join the NYC Science Research Mentoring Consortium, giving you access to a wide range of professional opportunities and the chance to connect with hundreds of members and alumni through exclusive events.

• Current high school sophomore or junior in good standing.
• Resident of the Bronx.
• Comfortable in both indoor and outdoor settings.
• Interested in science, research, and the environment.

The application will ask you to upload a resume (optional) and provide the name, email, and phone number of at least one reference. You will also be asked to answer three short questions, each 100–150 words. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until February 25 2026; candidates are encouraged to apply early. Strong candidates will be invited to an interview on one of the selected dates:
February 18, 28, or March 8 (1–4 pm) at the Bronx Zoo. If selected, you will receive further information via email.

Final date to receive applications:
February 25 2026.