Herbarium Internships 2021

Description: The mission of the U.S. National Arboretum is to enhance the economic, environmental, and aesthetic value of ornamental plants through research, conservation, and display. Pending available funding, the U.S. National Arboretum Herbarium may have several internships available in 2021. Interns will be located at the Arboretum in northeast Washington, D.C. All participate in regularly scheduled educational programs and field trips, work on independent projects that benefit the Arboretum, and are supervised and mentored by a member of the Arboretum’s professional staff. All internships are paid positions by either an hourly wage or stipend, depending upon the position.

We can also offer internships and mentoring as described above for qualified students who are able to provide their own funding. For all research internships, college credit may be arranged by the student and is encouraged.

Qualifications: Applicants need to have either completed at least 24 hours of relevant course work or have acquired one year of practical experience in a plant production or laboratory setting. Experience in horticulture, plant science, botany, taxonomy, or laboratory work is recommended for this position, as is attention to detail, a positive attitude, and the ability to work independently.

Duties & Working Conditions: These positions are located at the U.S. National Arboretum in Washington, D.C. Depending on the project, duties could include digitizing herbarium collections preserved in the U.S. National Arboretum Herbarium and preparing herbarium specimens for inclusion into the permanent collection.

To apply: Please send a cover letter stating your educational goals and research interests, resume, references, and transcripts (unofficial are acceptable) via email to USNA.Internships@usda.gov.

Questions? Contact the internship office at (202) 245-4563 or USNA.Internships@usda.gov