About the Organization

The Independent Institute for Environmental Concerns (UfU) was established in 1989 in the former German Democratic Republic (GDR) as the country's first independent institute of environmental science. With roots in the GDR environmental movement, UfU set out to further the progress of environmental awareness at the grassroots level and analyze the development of environmental policy. UfU has its head office in Berlin, with a branch in Halle Salle and a consulate office in Dresden.

Approximately 15 people work in the departments of environmental law and public participation, climate change and education, noise pollution, and landscape ecology. About 250 members and donors support the work of the Institute through membership dues and donations. UfU's projects are commissioned or supported by the European Union, the German Federal Ministry of Environment, The Ministry of Science and Education, Germany's Federal States and Communities, environmental organizations, foundations, and other scientific institutions. The UfU office is housed the House of Democracy and Human Rights along with nearly 60 NGOs. It is located in what may be the best and most interesting part of Berlin (Prenzlauer Berg) along with many cafes and cinemas. The UfU staff are friendly people mostly beetween 25 and 40 years old.

UfU Director Michael Zschiesche is a member of the E-LAW network, a global alliance of grassroots environmental advocates from 60 countries who collaborate across borders to defend the environment.

Job Description

Interns will work in UfU's Berlin office to help with conferences on Renewable Energies and Public Participation. UfU's Climate Change and Education research includes identifying climate change indicators, resource use, and energy saving measures through an incentive program. UfU makes resources on renewable energy available to schools and public facilities and UfU prepares advanced studies in the field of climate change.

UfU's Environmental Law and Public Participation Program advocates for giving German citizens a voice in environmental decision making. UfU does research and studies on environmental law and the impact of German Democratic Republic policies on the environment.

Interns may be involved with the following types of projects:

• Designing publicity and public relations materials;
• Preparing grant proposals and organizing fundraising activities
• Developing and improving UfU's English-language web site
• Research and writing journal articles for UfU's publications
• Providing English language translation and training
• Other special projects, as necessary

UfU Director Michael Zschiesche is a member of the E-LAW network, a global alliance of grassroots environmental advocates from 60 countries who collaborate across borders to defend the environment. E-LAW U.S. is based in Eugene, Oregon and interns are required to attend training at E-LAW U.S. prior to departure. Interns will learn more about UfU's current projects, learn how to use E-LAW's technology, and about how UfU uses the resources available in the E-LAW network.

# of Positions per term

1

Start Dates

Fall

Duration of Internship

3 Months

Academic Background

Environmental Studies, International Studies, Human Rights, Sociology, Development Studies, Public Policy, German or related majors.

Skills/Experience

Contact for more information

Language Ability

Intern must have strong reading, writing, and oral skills in German.

Other Requirements

A key factor in suitability for this internship is that students should be interested in the work of the organization. Applicants will have an interview with E-LAW US (in Eugene, Oregon, or by phone) before being proposed as candidates to UfU. Interns are also required to attend training at E-LAW U.S. prior to departure for Germany.

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.

IE₃ Program Fee

The program fee for the first term of any internship is $2,750 - $2,950. You do not pay tuition in addition to the program fee. 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	$800-$1200
Visa Fees	$400*
Recommended Immunizations	$0

*See Additional Cost Information below.

Estimated Monthly Expenses

Expense Type	Price/month
Housing	200-300 Euros
Food	150 to 250 Euros
Local Transportation	60-100 Euros
Recreation	60-100 Euros
Personal Expenses	60-100 Euros

Compensation

None

Additional Expense Information

• $400 covers a one time cost for a work permit waiver through CDS International