About the Organization

The Smithsonian Institution’s Gabon Biodiversity Program was established in 2000. The Program is a partnership among the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI), the Government of Gabon, Shell Gabon (SG), and other public and private stakeholders. The Program has focused its studies in the Gamba Complex, an area with two national parks and high biodiversity, including many species of conservation concern such as elephants, gorillas and sea turtles, and the largest oil exploration and development in Gabon. The program has national and international researchers, managers and technical personnel in Gamba and Washington, D.C. The lab and offices are based in Gamba, a town of 9,000 people.

The objectives of the program are to 1) increase knowledge and understanding of biodiversity in the Gamba landscape through research on species and habitats of conservation concern; 2) apply scientific research, conservation, and best management practices to minimize the impact of development on biodiversity; 3) increase local capacity to manage and develop natural resources sustainably; 4) raise the awareness of the value of Gabon’s biodiversity; and 5) foster partnerships with diverse stakeholders to support biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.

Learn more about the current programs of the Gabon Biodiversity Program on the Smithsonian Institution's website at http://nationalzoo.si.edu/scbi/mab/conservation/centralafrica/gabon/

Job Description

Responsibilities will vary depending on the program’s needs and the intern’s abilities and interests. These may include:

• Supporting research activities on biodiversity
• Assisting with forest plot monitoring
• Working with SI and other partners on conservation initiatives
• Working with nature clubs and developing conservation programs for local schools
• Developing print and internet materials, translating materials
• Teaching English to SI local staff
• Other projects as proposed by the intern, if they fit the needs and interests of SI

This internship is suitable for Professional Science Master's (PSM) candidates.

# of Positions per term

2

Start Dates

Any term

Duration of Internship

Three months

Academic Background

• Biology
• Forestry
• Wildlife Ecology and Conservation
• Environmental studies
• Animal Sciences
• Education
• Design/communications
• Other students with interests in conservation, education and research
• This internship is suitable for Professional Science Master's (PSM) students.

Skills/Experience

Intern needs be a team player and work well with people and organizations.
Good writing skills are also preferred.

Language Ability

Second year of university-level French or equivalent.

Other Requirements

Total costs vary depending on how long you plan to be abroad, where you will be living, your personal spending habits, and current exchange rates. The following estimates will give you a ballpark figure for this internship. Get help with the math from our handy Cost Calculator.
ALL ESTIMATES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.

IE₃ Program Fee

The IE₃ program fee is $3450 for the first term for both in-state and out-of-state students and $1000 for each additional term, regardless of credit earned. You do not pay tuition for the term(s) you are abroad. Visit your University's IE₃ page for details, costs for additional terms, and campus administrative fees.

Estimated One-Time Expenses

Expense Type	Price
International Travel	Approx $2000
Visa Fees	$100
Recommended Immunizations	Approx. $440. Malarial prophylaxis and proof of Yellow Fever vaccination are necessary.

*See Additional Cost Information below.

Estimated Monthly Expenses

Expense Type	Price/month
Housing	Provided
Food	$400
Local Transportation	$200
Recreation	$50
Personal Expenses	$100

Compensation

No compensation but SI will provide housing either near the lab or in the town, depending on availability.

Gamba has few amenities. For example, there are no movie theaters, coffee shops or ATMs. There a few shops with basic supplies and a couple small restaurants. Gamba is located in an area of the Congo Basin where yellow fever and malaria are common. Therefore, prior to departure, the intern will need a Yellow Fever vaccination and proof thereof, as well as sufficient anti-malaria pills to last during their stay in Gabon and several days before and after their trip (depending on medication prescribed by a your doctor).

In the field, comfortable walking/hiking shoes or boots, long-sleeved shirts and long pants, as well as a small backpack are appropriate. During the rainy season, a poncho or other raingear is recommended. In the office, business causal is fine, but should be neat and clean.

The lab has an internet connection, but students should bring their own laptops.

Smart phones have limited coverage and service is expensive. Students should plan on purchasing a phone to use for local and international service. Phones cost about $100, but prices vary with models. International calls are about $0.60/minute.