R2026101473 Aquatic Ecology of Urban Ponds in Fort Collins

Position Summary:

The intern will be based in Ft. Collins and will participate primarily in field research (85%) with some opportunities for laboratory research based at Colorado State University (15%). The field research will involve working with a field crew to survey freshwater ponds, canals, and streams in and around Fort Collins. Survey work will focus on characterizing aquatic community structure (fish, amphibians, aquatic macroinvertebrates) and selected habitat variables. Intern will need to be able to walk short distances to field sites and be able to carry equipment. Laboratory work may involve sample processing of aquatic invertebrates.

Department Name:

OEE Extension Centers (4048)

Anticipated Start Date:

5/16/2026

Anticipated Weekly Hours:

30 hours per week

Required Job Qualifications:

• Undergraduate degree underway or completed in ecology, biology, environmental sciences or a related field.
• Ability to work with a collaborative team.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively based on written application materials.

Preferred Job Qualifications:

• Previous research experience in aquatic ecology preferred but not required.
• Previous experience with data entry and analysis preferred but not required.

Essential Duties:

• Participate in training activities related to field safety.
• Read relevant background materials to prepare for the project.
• Complete field work under the supervision of the lead mentor and with a team or researchers.
• Compile research data into databases.
• Create a poster that encapsulates the work you completed over the summer and present it to Extension Faculty and Staff at OEE’s annual forum next fall.

Application Instructions:

For full consideration, all materials must be RECEIVED in Workday no later than 11:59 PM Mountain Time on Wednesday, March 4, 2026. Please submit the following to apply:

Resume

Special Required Document - This document should address the following three questions:

• In 200 words or less, please describe why you are interested in this internship opportunity.
• In 200 words or less, please tell us a little about yourself - where you are from, why you are at CSU and studying what you're studying, and what are your career ambitions?
• In 200 words or less, please tell us what you hope to learn from an Extension Internship this summer and how will the internship help you to achieve your career objectives?

For questions regarding the application process, contact the OEE HR at OEE_HR@colostate.edu. For questions regarding the job vacancy, responsibilities, and hourly pay rate, please contact Kyla Davis at KylaM.Davis@colostate.edu.

Required Application Documents

To apply, please upload the following applicant documents in the Required Application Documents section. Ensure your materials fully address the required and preferred job qualifications of the position. Please note, applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.

Resume/CV, Special Required Documentation

Application Details

• Background Check Language: Colorado State University may conduct background checks on final candidates.
• Benefit Information: Employee benefit information can be found on HR’s Website at https://hr.colostate.edu/currentemployees/benefits/
• For work-study positions, students must have OR be able to obtain work-study before starting employment. Students can check their work study award on Ramweb. If an award isn't shown on their financial aid package, then they should contact the Office of Financial Aid at OFApay@colostate.edu to have an advisor review their eligibility.