Behavior research interns will collect data either “live” from the public space or from reviewing video footage. Possible projects may focus on studies of social dynamics, mother and infant interactions, activity level and use of space, as well as engagement with enrichment items. Interns are offered opportunities to use state-of-the-art computer systems and Noldus Observer XT software for recording and analyzing behavioral data as well as standard pen-and-paper data collection.

Interns may be expected to spend time on data summary and analysis, data mining, as well as literature searches and readings for the particular study. Studies of behavior are observational and do not include animal contact. Coursework in animal behavior is strongly recommended but not required, and skill using Excel is helpful. Summer internships require at least a 20-hour per week commitment.

Questions? Contact Eli Baskir, M.S., Manager, Behavioral Sciences at Baskir@stlzoo.org.

Endocrinology interns will learn about the endocrinology of many species and how hormone measures are used to help conserve endangered animals, both in zoos and in the wild.

Students begin learning fecal sample extraction procedures and, if lab skills are proficient, may advance to assisting with enzyme and radioimmunoassays.

Interns are required to work two days a week (Monday through Thursday), from 9am through the early afternoon. Previous experience in basic laboratory techniques is required.

Questions? Contact Corinne Kozlowski, Ph.D., Endocrinologist at Kozlowski@stlzoo.org.

Work in reproductive science encompasses basic research on comparative reproductive systems as well as reproductive management, to enhance or control reproduction and to provide diagnostic testing and monitoring of reproductive status—for example, pregnancy or onset of puberty. Long-term reproductive management also includes cryopreservation of gametes and gonadal tissue from both males and females to extend the reproductive potential of animals into the future.

Projects focusing on reproductive physiology vary but may include opportunities to assist with gamete collection, analysis and cryopreservation, ultrasound exams or occasionally assisted reproductive technologies, such as artificial insemination. Additionally, projects involving data analysis to address questions related to reproductive management, e.g., calculations of minimum effective contraceptive dosages are also available through the AZA Reproductive Management Center, affiliated with the Research Dept.

Internships are not available every semester. Graduate students or veterinary students with an interest in contraception or theriogenology are strongly preferred, especially those with previous experience in a reproductive physiology lab or animal techniques. Undergraduate upper classmen with an interest in data analysis will be considered for AZA Reproductive Management Center projects only, but must have excellent attention to detail and Excel skills.

Questions? Contact Karen Bauman, M.S., Manager, Reproductive Sciences at Kbauman@stlzoo.org.

Animal welfare exists on a spectrum from negative to positive. Our goal is not only for animals to have positive welfare but also to continuously improve and encourage animals to thrive. To accomplish this, animal welfare research incorporates multiple measures of wellbeing such as physiology and endocrinology, behavior, affective state, and health.

Depending on the current ongoing projects, animal welfare interns may work on a variety of tasks including conducting behavioral observations, mining life history and health data from records, entering physiological data, and summarizing data. Behavioral observations may be live or using video and include opportunities to learn and use Noldus Observer XT and ZooMonitor software as well as traditional pen-and-paper data collection. Advanced interns may also be trained in literature reviews and data analysis and interpretation.

Interns will not have any animal contact in this position. Coursework in animal behavior and/or physiology is recommended but not required. All interns must have excellent attention to detail and Excel skills are strongly recommended. Internship positions may not be available every semester. Summer internships require at least a 20-hour commitment per week.

Questions? Contact Ashley Edes, Ph.D., Animal Welfare Scientist at aedes@stlzoo.org.