SCIENTIFIC ILLUSTRATION INTERN

Description

Funding will support 20hrs/week for 4 months. The time frame may be flexible.

Description

To assist Garden Researchers’ research taxonomic treatments by providing scientific illustrations using fresh and herbarium specimens, in addition to scientific publications.

This intern position will build competency in botany, herbarium best practices and botanical illustration, with a focus on succulent species. Use of compound microscope, understanding botanical terminology, attention to detail, and proficiency in pen and ink are required. In addition, optional field work opportunities are available.

Essential Duties

Assist the Research Botanists to:

• Conduct fieldwork within and outside Garden to acquire plant material and familiarity with species 
• Create scientific plates of selected taxa, under their supervision, with a focus on succulents, ex., Yucca
• Engage with other scientific illustrators in the community
• Produce high quality digital renderings of final products
• Participate in regular meetings with Research Scientists  

Hourly Pay Rate:  $21.00/hour

Requirements

• Portfolio of recent art work including pen and ink
• High quality pen and ink illustration skills
• Ability to observe and ask questions and modify techniques as needed
• Ability to perform fieldwork in a variety of terrains and conditions
• Excellent communication skills
• Desire to learn more about botanical research and conservation

Equipment Used

Typical office equipment, compound microscope, paper, ink, rulers, pens; this role will also use field equipment specific to the needs of research areas of inquiry, including plant collecting tools.

Internal Communication 

Regular communication with supervisors, as well as other Garden employees, scientific illustrators and volunteers. 

External Communication 

Limited

Working Conditions

Physical demands are those associated with a normal office environment within the Garden’s herbarium and outdoor work, including within the Garden, or as an option, in the field (local, regional). Optional field work may include camping, hiking, and backpacking. 

Must be able to walk, sit, stand, stoop, kneel, bend, see, hear, speak, read, and type. Manual dexterity and the ability to lift up to 25 pounds required. 

Reasonable accommodations may be made, when necessary and feasible, to allow a qualified individual to perform essential job functions.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Desert Botanical Garden is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers all applicants without regard to race, religion, color, sex, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, marital or parental status, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, or any other status protected by law.The Garden fosters and supports workplace diversity, equity, and inclusion to honor the unique perspectives, experiences, and contributions of all, to celebrate successes, and to cultivate individual and institutional excellence.