USGS Protected Areas Database: Improving Attribution of Protected Area Establishment Date and Management

Research Project

This project aims to improve information on protected area establishment and management to better inform characterization of status and changes in the national protected areas network. You will gain experience and learn to assess completeness and accuracy of protected area establishment data and management attribution within the existing records of the Protected Areas Database of the U.S.

Learning Objectives

Through this internship, you will engage directly with the protected areas database team and raw data to learn the complexities of the database and contribute to new approaches to simplify representation of protected areas data that are used for a broad scope of analysis from public land management, biodiversity conservation, and natural resources use.

Mentor

The mentor for this opportunity is Sara Boyer (sboyer@usgs.gov). If you have questions about the nature of the research, please contact the mentor(s).

Anticipated Appointment Start Date

July 1, 2026. Start date is flexible and will depend on a variety of factors.

Appointment Length

The appointment will initially be for 10 weeks, but may be renewed upon recommendation of DOI and is contingent on the availability of funds.

Level of Participation

The appointment is full time.

Participant Stipend

Stipend rates may vary based on numerous factors, including opportunity, location, education, and experience. If you are interviewed, you can inquire about the exact stipend rate at that time and if selected, your appointment offer will include the monthly stipend rate.

Citizenship Requirements

This opportunity is available to U.S. citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR), and foreign nationals. Non-U.S. citizen applicants should refer to the Guidelines for Non-U.S. Citizens Details page of the program website for information about the valid immigration statuses that are acceptable for program participation.

ORISE Information

This program, administered by ORAU through its contract with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to manage the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE), was established through an interagency agreement between DOE and USGS. Participants do not become employees of USGS, DOE or the program administrator, and there are no employment-related benefits. Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program.

Questions

If you have questions about the application process, please email USGS@orau.org and include the reference code for this opportunity.

The Qualified Candidate

The qualified candidate should be currently pursuing or have received a bachelor's or master's degree in the relevant fields listed above. Degree must have been received within the past four years, or anticipated to be received by 6/1/2029.