Conservation Science Summer Fellow – Conservation Genetics, Cell Culture – San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance • Escondido, CA

8d • Onsite

About The Position

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a nonprofit international conservation leader, committed to inspiring a passion for nature and creating a world where all life thrives. Empowering people from around the globe to support our mission to conserve wildlife through innovation and partnerships, we support cutting-edge conservation, and bring the stories of our work back to our two world-famous front doors — the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park — giving millions of guests, in person and virtually, the opportunity to experience conservation in action. The deep and extensive knowledge gained from more than a century of experience in wildlife care, health, veterinary services, nutrition and conservation makes us invaluable in the global effort to save species. Our team members play a crucial role in driving our conservation efforts forward and bringing us closer to a world where all life thrives. The Conservation Science Summer Fellowship is a 12-week program in which undergraduate students work directly with a mentor from the Conservation Science team on a specific laboratory, field, and/or community-based project. During that time, the Fellow gains hands-on experience while completing their project under the supervision of a mentor and then presents their research findings to SDZWA staff, donors, and collaborators at the end of their 12-week Fellowship. Conservation Genetics, Cell Culture Team uses innovative genetic and cellular approaches to assess, monitor, and manage endangered species, contribute to their sustainability, and prevent species extinction. They conduct collaborative research using cellular biology and genome-wide sequencing to develop tools for species of conservation concern. They use cells as models to advance conservation efforts, propagate and reprogram tissue culture cells to produce induced pluripotent stem cells, and direct their development for genetic rescue efforts for critically endangered species. The team is seeking two fellows, one for each of the following projects. This fellow will be working on Safeguarding Hawaiʻi’s Forest Birds from Extinction by optimizing biobanking protocols for ESA-listed Hawaiian Bird Species. This project aims to enhance species-specific cell culture by evaluating tissue types (skin, lung, muscle) and media formulations to improve fibroblast establishment and growth rates. Because protocols are highly species-specific, optimizing these methods is critical for successfully biobanking endangered species. Furthermore, we will validate cell viability by analyzing proliferation, morphology, metabolism, and senescence markers in established primary cells. These comprehensive assessments will ensure the banked material is viable for future biotechnological applications. Fellowships are based at the Arnold and Mabel Beckman Center for Conservation Research adjacent to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park in Escondido, California, unless otherwise stated. Applications for the 2026 Conservation Science Summer Fellowships can be submitted until February 15, 2026. Applicants should specify which CS team’s Fellowship they are applying to. Applicants can only apply for one Fellowship to one CS team, not multiple teams. If applicants apply to multiple CS teams, the first application submitted will be the only one considered. Summer 2026 Conservation Science Summer Fellowship: • Monday, May 18, to Friday, August 7 • Monday, June 22, to Friday, September 11 Fellowship is 40 hours per week for 12 weeks. Applicant must submit Resume and Cover Letter.

Requirements

• Current undergraduate students must be officially associated with a college or university to be eligible for the Fellowship program. Undergraduates who are currently enrolled in college meet this criterion, as do graduating seniors who are continuing their education in the fall following graduation. Recent graduates who are not continuing their education in the fall of the same year are not eligible to apply.
• Able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing
• Strong analytical skills to conduct research and analyze data.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Able to operate moderately complex computer software programs
• Able to work effectively with others in a diverse environment and with diverse populations
• Able to learn and perform data and sample gathering techniques
• Experience with qualitative and quantitative research methods
• Familiarity with conservation issues and strategies.

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience in conservation research or community engagement is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Perform a variety of laboratory, diagnostic, animal care, educational, and/or field duties.
• Collect, collate, maintain, process, and/or analyze records relevant to current project.
• Prepares reports and presentations to communicate research findings.
• Collect and record data utilizing spreadsheet and database systems.
• Prepare, arrange, and maintain data.
• Manages project timelines and ensures research objectives are met.
• Collaborates with team members and stakeholders to develop and implement conservation initiatives.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: No Education Listed