2027 Zoology Vertebrate Preparator Internship

Join the Denver Museum of Nature & Science Zoology Preparation Lab for a 12-week internship! The lab is looking for an intern to work on a mammal preparation project. Learning Objectives The intern will learn to dissect and collect data from captive black-footed ferrets (Mustela nigripes) for incorporation into the DMNS Zoology Collection.

They will learn how to prepare museum-quality study skins, skeletons, and alcohol specimens. This internship will also include learning to take measurements, collect observational data, and keep track of data used in a lab setting. Training will be primarily hands-on and include some reading materials.

All equipment, supplies, and PPE will be provided. There may be science communication opportunities as part of this internship. By the end of this internship, the intern will have a broad understanding of museum science topics such as vertebrate preparation best practices, the extended specimen, searching museum databases, and how museums contribute to the greater scientific community.

They will feel confident in their ability to dissect and prepare mammals for use in a research collection. Ideal candidates will be undergraduates majoring or recently graduated within the last year with a degree in Zoology, Wildlife Biology, Biology, Museum Science, or a related major. They will have basic classroom experience interacting with deceased specimens and dissection.

Interns are expected to communicate well, be excited about learning new scientific procedures, be punctual, have a strong attention to detail, and enjoy working with deceased animals.

Responsibilities The Intern must conduct work within the safety guidelines of the Museum, ensuring personal safety and the safety and security of the collections. Maintains prompt and frequent communication with supervisors, ensuring that instructions are understood and followed; communicates problems immediately. Accurate notes data; maintains and associates correct data with specimens.

Follows written instructions and documents new workflows. Keeps track of the number of specimens prepared and progress on the project. Maintains a professional demeanor; ensures professional representation at all times.

Minimum

Qualifications Candidates will be pursuing or have completed an undergraduate degree in any Zoology, Wildlife Biology, Biology, Museum Science, or other related field. The ability to clearly communicate and work well alone and with a team is expected. Basic classroom experience interacting with deceased specimens and dissection.

Includes the use of scissors, forceps, scalpels, and rulers. Attention to detail with fine motor skills. Strong attention to detail, patience, and fine motor skills; excellent hand-eye coordination.

Positive attitude and flexibility. Ability to work collaboratively with Museum staff and volunteers. Organized; ability to self-start and maintain balance between several projects.

Working Conditions Dissections will occur in the Zoology Preparation Lab on level 1 of the museum. Some work in the Zoology Collection B2 (2nd basement level) may be requested. Strong smells and/or fumes may be present.

Lifting 10lbs. regularly and up to 50lbs with assistance. Working with dead animals is inherently a dirty job. Seeing and touching viscera, blood, urine, feces, and dead animals.

May be asked to speak informally about the project with guests, staff, or other interns. Standing and sitting for extended periods. Staff Mentor Andie Carrillo Zoology Preparator

How to Apply Click on the Internship Application link below. Create an Account Update Profile Information (after you create an account you will be asked to complete additional fields) Select the 2027 Zoology Preparator Internship Review the position description Navigate to the Prerequisites section located at the bottom of the form Within the Prerequisites section, click on the 2027 Zoology Preparator Internship position Complete the 2027 Zoology Preparator Internship Form Upload your cover letter and resume/CV specifically for the internship you selected Once you've uploaded the necessary documents, select the position of interest again Apply for the internship by selecting the position once more using the bottom Apply Now Please remember that you must complete the last two steps for each internship position you are applying to. Once you have completed the first three steps, you are done with the application.