Internships

BIOLOGY Internship EXAMPLES

Examples of recent internships for which students have received credit in each Biology track. Please note that the Department of Biology does not offer guided internship programs and students are responsible for finding their own opportunities to get approved via the process above. Note: all Internships are appropriate for credit in the General Biology Track.

 

Ecology, Evolutionary and Conservation Biology Track

 

• IDEAS For Us

  IDEAS For Us is a 501(c) (3) non-profit and United-Nations-accredited charity organization with a presence in over 20 countries around the world. The goal is to help people create innovative solutions (i.e. social enterprises, projects, initiatives, inventions, and campaigns) and fund local action to advance sustainability by addressing problems locally. IDEAS for Us also hosts think tanks open to the public known as “The Hive,” which occur monthly at East End Market.

Student Testimony

“I have been able to learn more about my local community and how I can continue to be a part of positive change. I have gained skills in educating others about environmentalism and conservation. I also learned more about wildlife conservation and how animals can be just as impacted by climate change as us. I was challenged in this experience, but I have noticed growth in my work ethic and my overall confidence. I feel as if my appreciation and love for this field have grown as well and I am grateful for the opportunity to intern as an IDEAS Eco Organizer.”

• Discover Eden Big 5 Experience South Africa – conservation intern

The Discover Eden Big 5 Experience is designed for ecology and conservation students who want to get to grips with large mammal conservation and reserve management in Africa. Positioned in two of the top southern African destinations for conservation, with a focus on large mammals and predators, this course gets you up close and personal with some of the deadliest animals on the planet.

Student Testimony

“Stepping into the world of conservation biology and veterinary medicine, I found fulfillment, deep understanding and learning. The hands-on experience in South Africa with Discover Eden taught me the importance of understanding and being an active participant in preservation of the biological diversity of species and ecological sustainability. I networked with biologists, doctors, researchers, and game rangers. I spent time learning about different cultures, talking to locals, as well as attending lectures and workshops. I collected data, participated in rehabilitation efforts and research at the cryobank; I also learned game tracking and ethical game capture. Although there were many experiences, I found myself immersed in the field of veterinary medicine among researchers, conservationists, and doctors who play a crucial role in trying to help the environment with the “One Health” approach, in which the health of the people is closely connected to the health of animals and the environment. My trip to this beautiful country was a transformative experience that left me with an intense drive to accomplish what I have set for myself to achieve in life.”

• Student Conservation Association – USDA Forest Service intern

The Student Conservation Association is the largest provider of hands-on environmental conservation programs for teens and young adults. Program participants protect and restore national parks, marine sanctuaries, cultural landmarks and community green spaces across the country. The SCA is devoted to building access to nature for all, providing green job opportunities for young people and teaching members how to become environmental stewards.

Student Testimony

“I was stationed in the Cascade mountain range of Washington state where I worked as a wilderness ranger collecting data on usage of public lands. This is done through public contact by engaging visitors on their destination plans. Resource damage is assessed by traversing through the backcountry, monitoring dispersed sites such as surveying a receding glacier. I assisted a forest wildlife biologist with animal surveys to assess species and habitat damage, loss, and rehabilitation. Additionally, I assisted in environmental education through visitor interaction and enforcement. At the end of my hitches, I write a trip report so that the forest service has records of the resource damages to keep track over time as visitation increases. On trail crew, I helped build and maintain the recreational trails adhering to the Wilderness Act of 1964 that limits the quantity of human made structures and restricts the mode of construction. To preserve the spirit of wilderness, no power tools are used while botanical and ecological principles are applied to most effectively utilize natural resources while constructing trail features.”

 

Marine and Aquatic Biology Track

 

• New Smyrna Marine Discovery Center – conservation intern

Marine Discovery Center is offering internship opportunities in our Conservation, Education, and Exhibits departments. Interns will care for MDC exhibits, nurture a growing seagrass nursery, lead K-12 education experiences, build restoration materials with volunteers, and more!

Student Testimony

“Over the course of the three months at the government nonprofit Marine Discovery Center, I gained valuable hands-on experience working with many organisms and projects including animal care, public engagement and conservation efforts. I assisted the aquarium director with water quality tests, water changes, daily algae maintenance, food preparation, and feeding for all the marine tanks as well as bedding changes, enrichment, feeding and monitoring the health of reptiles. I was also responsible for teaching guests visiting the aquarium and children attending camps about our animals and what they do in the local Indian River Lagoon ecosystem. I managed the tide pool touch tank and assisted both children and adults in learning some fun facts about species they would be likely to see over at the beach. Finally, I assisted in conservation efforts by producing and transporting oyster restoration BESE mats as well as the organization and logging of government Horseshoe Crab tags. This experience allowed me to get up close with some really cool species, giving me an idea of areas I may want to focus my graduate level work in. I was also able to form relationships and connections with mentors at the facility who could help me secure a post-graduation job in the field or get me involved in other local restoration efforts during my last year of college.”

• Hubbs SeaWorld Research Inst – cetacean rescue intern

Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute (HSWRI) is a non-profit scientific research organization committed to conserving and renewing marine life to ensure a healthier planet. Our team of experts provides innovative and objective scientific solutions to challenges threatening ocean health and marine life in our rapidly changing world. HSWRI operates out of Melbourne Beach, FL.

Student Testimony

“I dedicated 10 hours a week as a Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute intern assisting with any projects the team needed help with. I collected data during bottlenose dolphin population surveys conducted in the Indian River Lagoon. I recorded the number of dolphins in each group we encountered, their life stages, presence of vibrio, and water data (salinity, temperature, and visibility), air data (temperature, wind, clarity). I also assisted with photo-ID efforts, and necropsies of different species to learn more about these mammals and help identify causes of mortality. I had the opportunity to assist with two disentanglements, ensuring the dolphins were safely disentangled and returned to the water with minimal stress levels. At the lab, there’s a handful of projects being worked on such as microplastic research and studying the reproductive condition of placentas. I hope to continue my education on marine mammal conservation efforts as a volunteer once I graduate and continue getting experience before applying to grad school.”

• Tampa Electric Company – Manatee Viewing Center intern

Manatees love warm water. And by a stroke of POWERful luck, Tampa Electric can provide it to them! Our Big Bend Power Station in Apollo Beach circulates water from Tampa Bay for cooling, then sends the water flowing clean and warm back into the bay. In the winter months the manatees leave colder waters to return to this warm and welcoming refuge. Because of this uniquely unusual migration, we’ve built the Manatee Viewing Center so everyone could have a chance to see manatees gather. Our discharge canal is a state and federally designated manatee sanctuary that provides critical protection from the cold for these unique, gentle animals.

Student Testimony

“As part of the environmental team, I contributed to research on blue carbon storage in coastal ecosystems. One of the few places in the U.S. with all three blue carbon habitats mangroves, seagrasses, and salt marshes, Tampa Bay is a powerful natural tool for protecting the planet. I designed an interactive educational display of a preserved ecosystem box for the Clean Energy Center. I joined the living shoreline project to produce a natural and sustainable way to protect coastal areas from erosion while also supporting the local ecosystem by using grass, oyster shells, sand, and native plants/shrubs instead of hard structures like seawalls. I took courses through Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) to learn ways to teach children about conservation at Manatee Viewing Center events and attended FWC Spring Manatee Forum meetings and a Warm Water Habitat Effort meeting. This allowed me to see all the different companies that are directly tied to manatee restorations, discussing seagrass in Tampa Bay, water control structures, spring protections zone, and finding a more reliable warm water source for manatees in winter months. This internship provided me a chance to grow, contribute, gain confidence, and connect. I have a deeper understanding of clean energy and environmental stewardship. I have confidence in my ability to work alongside others and make a real impact.”

 

Plant Science Track

 

• UCF Arboretum and Sustainability Internship

For internships working in one of our teams at the Arboretum, check Handshake every March! For more information on what our teams do, visit our Learning by Leading^TM page below. Check out our social media pages for announcements and updates. Applications open every March for the following Fall and Spring semesters on Handshake. Some teams may start in summer so please read role requirements before applying.

• My Dragonfly Gardens – native plant conservation intern

At My Dragonfly Gardens, every project begins as a living ecosystem – where plants, wildlife, and people co-exist in harmony. Each design balances beauty, function, and ecological purpose, ensuring your garden not only looks good but works for the planet.

Student Testimony

“My internship at My Dragonfly Gardens was an opportunity to work with Florida native plants in herb and wellness gardens with an emphasis on the importance of sustainability. A significant focus of my internship involved studying Florida native plants renowned for their medicinal and culinary properties. I conducted research on a diverse range of plant species, exploring their traditional uses, active compounds, and potential health benefits. I learned the ethnobotanical backgrounds and traditional uses of many of these plants and how to identify them. One of the highlights of my internship was learning how to apply Florida native plants in various contexts including herbal medicine, culinary arts, and aromatherapy. My Dragonfly Gardens instilled in me a passion for botanical conservation, holistic health, and environmental stewardship.”

• WDW – Horticulture team intern

The Disney Horticulture team is a dedicated group of professionals who work tirelessly to ensure the parks’ landscapes are vibrant and well-maintained.

Student Testimony

“I worked with Disney’s horticulture team as a professional horticulture intern to learn farming techniques such as pruning, harvesting, and planting. I also learned plant identification/taxonomy of the native Florida plants along with many others. I gained skills in proper use of common outdoor power tools, such as straight shaft string trimmers, augers, and edgers. A big part of the internship was assisting in the set up and development of the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival, in which I learned how to use and grow plants using innovative gardening techniques and custom-built irrigation systems. I also got to learn about other departments that horticulture works closely with, such as common environmental practices to keep us and our world safe.”

Pre-Health Professional Biology Track

 

• Dental Care Access Foundation, Orlando – dental assistant intern

The Dental Care Access Foundation, Inc. (DCAF) was founded in 2004 by a group of compassionate local dentists who witnessed far too many people in our community suffering from dental pain, infection, and swelling, all with nowhere to turn for help. They came together to create a solution: a volunteer-driven foundation dedicated to serving those who otherwise go without care.

Student Testimony

“DCAF is a non-profit organization that aims to extend dental care to low-income families and children with special needs. I was in charge of packing thousands of oral hygiene kits to distribute to schools for children with special needs in the Orlando area. I taught the children about the importance of oral hygiene, as well as performing oral evaluations and providing fluoride treatment. It was our job to create a positive experience, calm the children when they come in for treatment, and emphasize the importance of dental care. I expanded my knowledge of the business side of the dental office as well. I recorded patient statistics for all the patients we saw, estimating the total cost of treatment provided to apply for grant funding, which allows charitable organizations to continue to provide care. I also talked with individuals around Orlando who were seeking affordable clinics, finding them an office that could treat them on a sliding-scale fee. I was able to assist in dental procedures by holding the suction, passing instruments, and listening to all the patient’s requests, and setting up rooms for future treatment. My time with Dental Care Access Foundation taught me about dentistry’s clinical and non-clinical aspects. It also emphasized the importance of equal access to quality care.”

• Various Medical, Dental, Laboratory, Pharmacy, Dermatology, Phlebotomy, Surgery Center internships (Note: Doctor shadowing or paid administrative positions do not count as internships)

 

Zoology and Pre-Veterinary Biology Track

 

• Orange County Animal Shelter – veterinary team intern

Orange County Animal Services (OCAS) is an innovative animal-welfare organization that enforces the Orange County Code to protect both citizens and animals.

Student Testimony

“I assisted the Vet Team in different capacities. I worked in the outer office preparing surgical packs and vaccines, sorted instruments, stored new shipments, inventoried and restocked. In the clinic I prepped the kittens for surgery, assisted with pre-ops, operating room sanitation, and post-op care such as monitoring sedated animals. I provided food and water for animals and assisted in the care of two sickly foster kittens administering oral and topical medications. I also lead a volunteer team for the Barktoberfest Rescue appreciation event sponsored by OCAS to promote adoption and helped the mobile vet clinic with applications before processing for free micro-chipping and rabies vaccines.”

• Worldpackers – Peru vet, rescue centers intern

Worldpackers are the safest community for travel and volunteering. Connect with millions of conscientious travelers and welcoming hosts around the world and have transformative experiences.

Student Testimony

“My 4-week trip to Peru was full of beneficial experiences directed towards developing myself in my career. I was able to learn about Peruvian culture cultural and veterinarian practices as well as how to properly communicate and interact with pet owners. In the vet clinic, I helped the veterinarians one on one. Since I am a fluent Spanish speaker, I was allowed to take temperatures, read respiratory rates during surgery, and even administer IVs. I went out of my comfort zone and gained new experiences and lifelong friends.”

• Various internships at Central Florida Zoo, Brevard Zoo, Zoo Miami, Jungle Adventures, etc.