About the role
We often need qualified and motivated students who are interested in undertaking research projects in coal-impacted regions of southern WV. We are particularly in need of students with backgrounds in geography, environmental law, geology, engineering, environmental science, environmental chemistry, biology, public health, GIS, or related fields and with a strong commitment to environmental justice. The results of student research will be valuable to Coal River Mountain Watch and other organizations in drawing connections between irresponsible mining practices and public health and safety. Please continue reading below for examples of some recent research interships.
As an intern on-site, you would be living with other interns and volunteers in the spacious apartments of the solar-powered Judy Bonds Center for Appalachian Preservation, above the Coal River Mountain Watch office in Naoma, WV. You would have access to kitchen facilities, internet, and work space.
There is some flexibility to tailor these research positions for your academic requirements (summer research, undergraduate thesis, or master's thesis). These positions are unfunded but we are happy to work with you to help secure funding through your school.
Please email us for more details about currently available research opportunities and an application.
We have opportunities in several fields for interns to do research and gain valuable experience. You may have ideas in addition to our listed projects and the following specific needs; just ask.
Specific needs:
- Agriculture. Raising, harvesting, and marketing hemp grown in our back yard, and organizing workshops or other events to teach about this growing opportunity.
- Conservation easement. Recruit and assist small landowners.
- Water, air, soil, and plant monitoring. Measure pollutant levels to determine the extent of impacts.
- Animal and plant life survey, especially for endangered and threatened species.
- IT/website development.
- GIS/mapping.
- Energy audit/weatherizing.
- Renewable energy installation and education.
- Sustainable economic opportunities.