Intern - Aquatic Species Team

Job Posting Organization:
The Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) is a global intergovernmental treaty that aims to conserve and sustainably use migratory species and their habitats. Established under the auspices of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), CMS operates with a mission to coordinate the development of environmental policy consensus and address environmental issues at both global and regional levels. The CMS Secretariat, which is supported by UNEP, oversees various intergovernmental instruments related to migratory species conservation. The organization is committed to fostering international cooperation and collaboration among countries to ensure the protection of migratory species and their ecosystems. The CMS Secretariat is located in Bonn, Germany, and is staffed by a diverse team of professionals dedicated to the conservation of wildlife and biodiversity. The organization operates in multiple countries, engaging with various stakeholders to promote sustainable practices and policies.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position is designed for individuals who are passionate about marine conservation and wish to contribute to the work of the CMS Secretariat, specifically within the Aquatic Species Team. Interns will be involved in a variety of tasks that support the implementation of decisions made at the Conference of the Parties (COP) meetings, particularly COP1

• The role offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the field of environmental policy and conservation, working closely with experienced professionals in a dynamic and collaborative environment. Interns will have the chance to engage in literature reviews, data analysis, and the preparation of background documents for meetings, which will enhance their understanding of the complexities involved in international conservation efforts. The internship is full-time, requiring a commitment of 40 hours per week, and can be conducted either in-person at the Bonn office or remotely, depending on the circumstances of the successful candidate. This position is unpaid, but it provides invaluable experience and exposure to the workings of a major international organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be tasked with a variety of responsibilities that contribute to the goals of the Aquatic Species Team. These duties include: assisting with the implementation of decisions from COP15; conducting literature reviews on marine species of concern; compiling information on the legal status of marine species; performing data analyses and visualizations related to international trade and fisheries; preparing background documents for CMS and ASCOBANS meetings; assisting in the creation of publications and outreach materials; contributing to the development of strategies and action plans; supporting the organization of meetings and workshops; aiding in project proposal development for fundraising; and assisting with the implementation of ongoing projects. Interns will also be involved in the preparation for significant meetings, such as the Sharks MOU Advisory Committee, and will help develop capacity-building materials for workshops. This diverse set of responsibilities will provide interns with a comprehensive understanding of the operational aspects of the CMS Secretariat and the challenges faced in migratory species conservation.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for this internship, applicants must meet one of the following criteria: be currently in the final year of a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent), be enrolled in a master’s or Ph.D. program (or equivalent), or have completed a bachelor’s, master’s, or Ph.D. degree within one year prior to the expected start date of the internship. The preferred areas of study include biology, ecology, zoology, environmental studies, international relations/policy, political sciences, geography, law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law, or related fields. While professional work experience is not required, a strong academic background in a relevant field is essential. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in standard software applications and possess the ability to draft articles and social media posts, as well as design and analyze surveys.

Educational Background:
Candidates should have a strong educational background relevant to the internship. This includes being in the final year of a bachelor’s degree, currently enrolled in a master’s or Ph.D. program, or having recently completed a degree in a related field. The ideal candidates will have academic training in disciplines such as biology, ecology, zoology, environmental studies, international relations, political sciences, geography, or international law. This educational foundation will equip interns with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively contribute to the work of the CMS Secretariat and engage with complex environmental issues.

Experience:
While prior professional experience is not a prerequisite for this internship, candidates should possess a strong academic background in a relevant field of study. The internship is designed for individuals who are eager to learn and gain practical experience in the field of environmental policy and conservation. Interns will benefit from the guidance and mentorship of experienced professionals within the CMS Secretariat, allowing them to develop their skills and knowledge in a supportive environment. The focus is on providing a valuable learning experience rather than requiring extensive prior work experience.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this internship, as it is the working language of the CMS Secretariat. Candidates must demonstrate their ability to communicate effectively in English. Knowledge of additional languages, particularly French or Spanish, is considered desirable and may enhance a candidate's application. Proficiency in multiple languages can be beneficial in a multicultural work environment and may facilitate better communication with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid and requires a full-time commitment of 40 hours per week. The expected duration of the internship is between three to six months, with the possibility of extension based on performance and organizational needs. Interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. It is important for candidates who are not citizens or permanent residents of Germany to discuss visa requirements prior to accepting an internship offer. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and applicants should be cautious of any requests for personal financial information.