George W. Fry Chair for Science Education

This is a seasonal position.

An excellent opportunity to live and work in Great Smoky Mountains National Park while contributing to a Citizen Science program aimed at involving young people in scientific research.

RESPONSIBILITIES:  After becoming familiar with both the research activities and the educational programs at Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont, employee will support the efforts of the Citizen Science and Summer Camp Programs, serving as a bridge between each. Employee will assist with research projects in the field and in the lab. This person will spend time working with students in the field and developing and piloting curriculum that incorporates science into program lessons and activities. Employee will help lead residential summer programs that offer students opportunities to focus intensely on the study of nature in the park. He or she also will help to involve students from Tremont programs in other research opportunities throughout the park. Employee will work closely alongside fellow summer staff with various summer camp related activities, including some overnight supervision of campers in our dormitory.

Curriculum development and teaching: Work with the Citizen Science Director, Summer Camp Director, and summer camp staff to develop and implement activities for campers (age 9-17) that focus on hands-on science and research studies.

Field research:  Observation, data collection, and sample collection for a variety of organisms.  Projects most likely will include studies of birds, salamanders, snails, bees, ferns, moths, and reptiles.  As needed, help with other study subjects and assist visiting researchers or park resource managers.  Some hiking required. 

Lab work:  Invertebrate identification and curation (pinning, labeling). 

Computer work:  Data entry and analysis, downloading of digital images.

Writing:  Co-write a weekly science report for staff.  Write articles for Walker Valley Reflections, the GSMIT newsletter.  Write up science curriculum developed over the course of the summer for use by other staff.

DATES:  Seasonal ten-week position from May 27 - August 2, 2008.  Some early morning, evening, overnight and weekend work will be required.

COMPENSATION:  $275/week.  Dormitory housing, meals, and a uniform allowance provided.

QUALIFICATIONS:  Must be enthusiasm for both science and education and have a desire to involve young people in science in a residential setting.  One year or more of college education required; college degree preferred. Must have experience in scientific research, writing, hiking, natural history, and working with children. Basic First Aid and CPR certifications preferred. A valid driver’s license with good driving record is required.   

DEADLINE: Application must be received by February 15, 2008. 

TO APPLY:  Submit an application with resume and cover letter attached. Applications are available at the top of this page.

c/o Jason Love, Citizen Science Director
Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
9275 Tremont Road • Townsend, TN 37882
Phone:  865-448-6709 • Fax:  865-448-9250
E-mail: Jason@gsmit.org

Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Association will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

Back to main Jobs page