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Marine Conservation Intern (U.S. remote or hybrid)


Organization: Environmental Defense Fund

Website: https://www.edf.org/jobs/marine-conservation-intern


Job description: We require a motivated intern with strong research and analytical skills to support EDF in advancing seabird conservation and sustainable fisheries management. The intern will contribute to a quantitative assessment of the effectiveness of alternative fisheries management strategies in reducing seabird bycatch, with the goal of developing science-based recommendations for updated conservation measures. They will play a key role in data processing, spatial analysis, and quantitative modelling, as well as reviewing scientific literature to inform model parameters and develop realistic management scenarios. Working alongside EDF scientists and external collaborators, the intern will help translate scientific findings into actionable recommendations to inform international fisheries policy and strengthen seabird conservation. Applications are due 11/9/2026, with an intended start data of 1/11/2027.

Required qualifications

  • Currently enrolled in or recently completed a master’s or doctoral degree in ecology, marine science, fisheries science, conservation biology, environmental science, geography, data science, or a related quantitative field.
  • Proficiency in R programming (or Python skills and a willingness to work in R), including demonstrated experience in data processing, manipulation, visualization, and statistical analysis.
  • Demonstrated experience conducting spatial analyses, including working with geospatial data and spatial data packages.
  • Strong quantitative and analytical skills, including the ability to independently troubleshoot code and interpret results.
  • Experience reviewing and synthesizing scientific literature to inform research questions and analytical approaches.
  • Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple tasks and deliver analytical outputs within tight deadlines.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to disseminate scientific findings clearly to diverse audiences.
  • Ability to work both independently and in a team setting.
  • Demonstrate self-awareness, cultural competency and inclusivity, and ability to work with colleagues and stakeholders across all cultures and backgrounds.

Preferred qualifications

  • Experience analyzing animal tracking, fisheries effort, or other spatially explicit ecological datasets.
  • Familiarity with spatial overlap analyses, ecological risk assessments, or quantitative approaches to assessing anthropogenic impacts on wildlife.
  • Experience developing or applying statistical models, conducting sensitivity analyses, and quantifying uncertainty.
  • Knowledge of seabird ecology, fisheries bycatch, marine policy or marine conservation.

Please apply by clicking “Apply Now” on the job ad on our website.