Remote Sensing/Spatial Ecology Intern

The Conservation GIS Lab (https://nationalzoo.si.edu/conservation-ecology-center) at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI) is seeking interns to start immediately. The internship project will focus on exploring a combination of remote sensing space-borne lidar data (GEDI) and optical data (e.g., Sentinel or Landsat series) to classify and map vegetation types, specifically targeting understory bamboo and woody invasive plants.

Objectives: 

• Pre-processing forest survey data and spatial datasets at a local or regional level
• Extracting GEDI metrics using Google Earth Engine and Python or R
• Extracting optical data metrics using Google Earth Engine and Python or R.
• Building predictive spatial models for vegetation type classification using statistical analysis and machine learning algorithms.
• Gain experience with the analysis of a wide range of remote sensing data, spatial data analysis, creating maps with various remote sensing data, and scientific communication.

Qualifications:

• A Bachelor's degree is required, and a Master's degree is preferred.
• Commitment to a full-time schedule of 40 hours per week.
• Strong background in programming (Google Earth Engine (required) and Python (preferred) or R).
• Knowledge of GIS (preferably ArcGIS or QGIS) and remote sensing analysis is desirable.
• Strong writing skills (required)
• Ability to conduct research independently while also collaborating effectively within a team environment.

Benefits:

• A competitive stipend up to $1,600 monthly, based on education and experience.
• Optional $9/day dormitory-style housing on the SCBI campus.
• Interns will have access to a computer and reliable high-speed internet.

Location & terms of appointment:

• On-campus internship in Front Royal, VA
• Minimum commitment of six months, beginning as soon as possible, with priority to longer-term candidates.
• Engaging with a cohort of fellow interns and researchers through regular meetings and communications

About SCBI:

The Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute is located at the north entrance of the Shenandoah National Park in Front Royal, VA, about 60 miles west of Washington, D.C. Dedicated to promoting the conservation of biological diversity, SCBI not only furthers the Smithsonian Institution's broader objectives but also enriches our understanding by studying endangered species, habitats, and communities. Beyond research, SCBI plays an important role in sharing these insights through advanced studies, professional training programs, and public outreach.