Paid conservation internship with ZSL

We’re ZSL, an international conservation charity. Through our unrivalled animal experts in our two zoos (London zoo and Whipsnade Zoo), the work of our pioneering scientists, our dedicated conservationists, our purpose is to inspire, inform and empower people to stop wild animals going extinct.  Our vision is a world where wildlife thrives and we’re working every day to achieve this. From investigating the health threats facing animals, to helping people and wildlife live alongside each other, we are committed to bringing wildlife back from the brink of extinction.

Role Profile

The EDGE of Existence programme (www.edgeofexistence.org) is the only global conservation initiative to focus specifically on threatened species that represent a significant amount of unique evolutionary history. Using a scientific framework to identify the world’s most Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered (EDGE) species, the EDGE programme highlights and protects some of the most weird and wonderful species on the planet.

Storytelling is being increasingly recognised as an important tool in science communication. A compelling story can resonate with a reader and empower them to take action. The successful applicant will extract captivating stories about EDGE Fellows and species, delivering them through our website, social media pages, newsletters and other media outputs. This individual will use creative methods to generate content in a wide array of digital storytelling formats, including text, video and photography. The applicant will also more widely support the EDGE team in updating and managing website content.

• Extracting and writing compelling stories from a range of information and data sources held by EDGE to communicate the work we are undertaking worldwide.
• Creating content for EDGE social media platforms (Facebook/Twitter/Instagram).
• Assisting with the creation of the EDGE quarterly newsletter.
• Sourcing and writing engaging blogs for the EDGE website.
• Updating and managing content on the EDGE website

Person Specification

• Passionate about wildlife
• Demonstrated experience in writing engaging stories for a general audience, for example through blogs or media articles.
• Some knowledge and interest in conservation
• Demonstrated communication skills
• Good attention to detail
• Good administrative and organisational skills

Interest and/or experience in updating and managing website content

We particularly welcome applications from people who are: i) from BAME backgrounds; ii) living in economically deprived areas of the UK; iii) non-graduates.

Please Note: We are offering either one 6-month internship or two 3-month internships ideally starting in February/March 2022.

The role is part time (maximum four days per week) and will be predominantly based remotely with fortnightly meetings at ZSL offices in Regent’s Park, London. Expenses for travel to/from ZSL will be provided within 2hours of Regent’s Park.

What do we offer?

“Work Your Way”: We empower people to work from where they work best. We believe work is something we do and not a place we go. Our offices have become important places for collaboration and social connection but are no longer our main place of work.

You will have access to a blended program of Wellbeing initiatives, including confidential access to our 24/7 Employee Assistance Program as well as regular webinars and activities around mental, physical, social and financial wellbeing. The opportunity to be part of an organisation that is committed to improving diversity and inclusion.

Other benefits include 25 days holiday, life assurance, stakeholder pension (employer contribution is matched up to 12%), complimentary zoo tickets with a 30% discount in shops and online, subsidised canteen, enhanced paternity and maternity leave, season ticket loan, cycle to work scheme, subsidised gym membership and access to a wide range of learning and development opportunities.

Ultimately, you’ll know that you’ll help us to inspire, inform and empower people to stop wildlife going extinct.

To Apply

Applicants will need to upload their CV and covering letter (detailing relevant experience and skills, stating why they want the position and including details of availability) and can do this by clicking the “Apply for this job online”

Closing date for applications: Midnight (23:59) on 6th February 2022.