Based at the Marine Science Institute at UCSB, the Benioff Ocean Initiative applies marine science and technology to create scalable solutions to pressing ocean health challenges.
The research group both manages and financially supports projects that address a variety of marine issues, including species protection, ocean pollution, and sustainable management of marine resources.
Internship Description
The intern will have the unique opportunity to learn how to support a research group’s internal- and external-facing communications about the array of marine-related issues in the group’s diverse portfolio. This may include but is not limited to the Benioff Ocean Initiative’s social media, e-newsletters, and website. The intern will also take ownership over a self-driven communications capstone project. Additionally, the intern may assist in other project support tasks as needs arise.
This internship is ideal for undergraduate students interested in gaining experience working in a collaborative, small team environment under the mentorship of Benioff Ocean Initiative scientists and managers. This internship will provide valuable experience to students actively pursuing graduate school or a career in marine science, conservation, communications and/or policy.
Responsibilities
- Independently research and develop marine science-related content for external communications channels
- Manage day-to-day operations of social media accounts
- Leverage social media analytics tools to evaluate performance and inform communications strategy
- Develop content and basic graphic design for quarterly e-newsletters
- Support website content and design development
- Assist in administrative tasks and project support as needed
Basic Qualifications
- Currently pursuing an undergraduate degree at UCSB
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, attention to detail, and ability to meet deadlines
- Interest in marine science and/or environmental science
Additional Preferred Qualifications
- Experience managing social media accounts in a professional environment
- Experience developing outreach materials, such as newsletters, website copy, press releases, and news articles
- Proactive and team-oriented
- Basic graphic design
This is a part-time internship (10-15 hr/wk) for the Fall 2022 quarter, with the potential to extend into the Winter and Spring 2023 quarters based on performance and funding availability. Compensation is $16/hr.
We encourage all applicants to submit an optional Statement of Contributions to Diversity with their application materials. Please describe and give specific examples of how you have worked to enhance or develop your awareness on issues of diversity and inclusion in the workplace or other professional or academic environments.
To apply, please send a cover letter, resume, 500 word writing sample and the optional Statement of Contributions to Diversity to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with the subject line “Science Communications Internship” by August 26, 2022.
The University is especially interested in candidates who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of the academic community through research, teaching and service.
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
