DataONE Summer Internship Program: Open for Applications

The Data Observation Network for Earth (DataONE) is a virtual organization dedicated to providing open, persistent, robust, and secure access to biodiversity and environmental data, supported by the U.S. National Science Foundation. DataONE is pleased to announce the availability of summer research internships for undergraduates, graduate students and recent postgraduates.

Program Structure

Up to eight interns will be accepted in 2011, each paired with one primary mentor and, in some cases, secondary mentors. Interns need not necessarily be at the same location or institution as their mentor(s). Interns and mentors are expected to have a face-to-face meeting at the beginning of the summer, and interns are encouraged to attend the DataONE All-Hands Meeting in the fall to present the results of their work. DataONE will pay all necessary travel expenses.

Schedule

• March 15 - Application period opens
• April 8 - Deadline for receipt of applications at midnight Pacific time
• April 15 - Notification of acceptance. Scheduling of face-to-face kickoff meetings based on availability of interns and mentors
• May 23 - Program begins*
• June 27 - Midterm evaluations
• July 29 - Program concludes
• October 18-20 - DataONE All-Hands-Meeting, New Mexico (attendance encouraged)

* Allowance will be made for students who are unavailable during these date due to their school calendar.

Eligibility

The program is open to all undergraduate students, graduate students, and postgraduates who have received their masters or doctorate within the past five years. Given the broad range of projects, there are no restrictions on academic backgrounds or field of study. Interns must be at least 18 years of age by the program start date, must be currently enrolled or employed at a university or other research institution and must currently reside in, and be eligible to work in, the United States. Interns are expected to be available approximately 40 hours/week during the internship period (noted below) with significant availability during the normal business hours. Interns from previous years are eligible to participate.

Financial Support

Interns will receive a stipend of $4,500 for participation, paid in two installments (one at the midterm and one at the conclusion of the program). In addition, required travel expenses will be borne by DataONE. Participation in the program after the mid-term is contingent on satisfactory performance. The University of New Mexico will administer funds. Interns will need to supply their own computing equipment and Internet connection. For students who are not US citizens or permanent residents, complete visa information will be required, and it may be necessary for the funds to be paid through the student?s university or research institution. In such cases, the student will need to provide the necessary contact information for their organization.