APPLICATION DEADLINE: 15 February 2019
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The Global Genome Initiative (GGI) is a Smithsonian-led international collaboration directed toward collecting and preserving genomic tissues from global biodiversity. The principle aim of GGI is to collect and preserve genome-quality tissue from specimens representing all families from the major branches of the tree of life and 50% of genera. To achieve these targets for global plant diversity, the Global Genome Initiative for Gardens (GGI-Gardens) was formed at the National Museum of Natural History in 2015. In August 2018, the Global Genome Initiative for Gardens (GGI-Gardens) moved its base of operations to the Botanical Research Institute of Texas (BRIT) in Fort Worth, TX. Here GGI-Gardens is building a network of preserved tissue collections from botanical gardens throughout Texas. During 14 weeks from May-August 2019, we will collect plant specimens and preserve genome quality tissues from the flora of Texas, emphasizing living collections in botanical gardens of Texas. The selected applicants for this internship will assist in this effort.
SCHEDULE: 14 weeks, May – August 2019, expected
PAY: The selected applicants will receive a $2,000 stipend for their work with this project.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Required:
Enrollment (or recently graduated) in a program for Bachelor’s degree in biology, botany, environmental/life science, or horticulture (or demonstration of equivalent experience).
Minimum of one undergraduate- or graduate-level course in botany, plant science, plant ecology, etc.
Ability to work outside for several hours, lift 30 lbs of field equipment, and collect plant specimens from herbs, shrubs, and trees in dense, wooded vegetation.
A valid driver’s license and willingness to drive in and around North/Central Texas.
Preferred:
Experience with botanical fieldwork.
Research experience in botanical sciences.
Basic knowledge of plant taxonomy and major groups of the plant tree of life.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES: The selected, qualified applicant will be trained in the collection of genome-quality tissues from plants in the field and from greenhouses at botanical gardens in Texas. The applicant will receive training for fieldwork and tissue collection using field techniques as well as liquid nitrogen handling. The applicant will also be trained in database management and will have opportunities for basic molecular laboratory research and training.
TO APPLY: Please send the following to abyoung@brit.org with the Subject Line: “GGI Internship: LAST NAME, FIRST INITIAL.”
APPLICATION DEADLINE: 15 February 2019
• A statement of interest (<800 words) in the position outlining your experience, qualifications, interests, and career and professional goals.
• Your resume or curriculum vitae.
• Arrange to have one letter of reference sent by an individual who can attest to your academic and/or professional qualifications for this internship.
If you have any questions, please contact GGI-Gardens Director, Dr. Morgan Gostel at mgostel@brit.org