2024 SUMMER INTERNSHIP
The Bahamas National Trust and The Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve are thrilled to announce our prestigious 2024 Summer Internship Programme in Eleuthera, The Bahamas. This hands-on, paid internship opportunity is an invitation for three (3) qualified college-level Bahamian students interested in learning more about the native flora and ecology of The Bahamas. Learn more about the Internship Programme below.
internship overview
The Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve 2024 Summer Internship Programme is a seven (7) – week university-level course designed to increase participants’ knowledge of botany and the native flora of The Bahamas. The course focuses on plant taxonomy, plant families and communities, common and endemic species and their distribution. Participants will learn about the ecology of The Bahamas, specifically its flora, contribute to important research, and grow their passion for plant science. This year’s program includes a one-week exchange with the Natural Areas Conservancy in New York.
In-Depth Learning of Native Plants
Participants will delve into plant taxonomy and study the diverse flora of The Bahamas, focusing on plant families, communities, and common and endemic species found in the archipelago. They will learn about various botanical research and plant conservation methods.
Field and Lab Experiences
During the internship, there will be lots of time spent in the field studying native plants and ample time in the classroom and plant lab. Participants will experience various field trips around the island to learn about different habitats and ecosystems. They should expect to spend significant time outdoors in hot and humid conditions.
New York Exchange Collaboration
As part of this year’s programme, participants will embark on an exhilarating one-week visit to New York City for a learning exchange with the Natural Areas Conservancy.
Location: Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve – Governor’s Harbour, Eleuthera, The Bahamas
Date and Duration: May 27th – July 12th, 2024 (7 weeks)
Internship Positions: Three (3) positions are available
All-Inclusive: All travel expenses and board are covered, plus a weekly stipend.
Requirements
- A background or previous coursework in botany, natural sciences, or a related field
- A strong desire for hands-on field experience
- Commitment to the full seven weeks of the programme
- Candidates must possess a valid Bahamian passport with the ability to travel to the United States.
SUMMER INTERNSHIP 2024 APPLICATION
Meet Your Course Director:
Dr. Ethan Freid
Dr. Ethan Freid is the Botanist at the Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve and a leading authority on Botany in The Bahamas. With a wealth of experience and passion for plant conservation, he has documented the diversity of vascular plants and plant communities throughout The Bahamas and Caribbean for over 30 years. Dr. Freid will be the primary teacher during the internship programme, with support from other staff and partners of The Bahamas National Trust.
Internship Base:
Your Home and Classroom
Participants will live and study from The Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve in Governor’s Harbour, Eleuthera. The Preserve is an internationally accredited botanical garden recognised as a regional leader in plant research and conservation. Its natural and constructed features make it the perfect place to observe, study, and appreciate the beauty of Bahamian fauna and flora. Participants will utilize the Preserve’s property and research facilities during the internship.
