Behavioral Research Internship – Summer 2026

Job Description

Behavioral Research Internship – Summer 2026 | WCS

The Tone:
This is a seasonal, part-time internship at WCS, a leading conservation organization that connects people with wildlife and wild places. This role is based on-site at one of three iconic locations: Central Park Zoo, Queens Zoo, or Prospect Park Zoo in New York, NY. As an intern within the Animal Department, you will gain a well-rounded and deep dive into the fascinating world of conducting animal behavior and observational studies. This internship is designed to provide guided, hands-on experience, allowing you to contribute to meaningful research that enhances the understanding and welfare of zoo-housed animals.

The TL;DR
• Role: Internship
• Type: Seasonal, Part-time
• Location: New York, NY (On-site)
• Team: Animal Department
• Mission: Owns the end-to-end process of designing, conducting, analyzing, and presenting findings from animal behavior and observational studies within a zoo environment.

What You’ll Actually Do
• Study Design & Execution: You will be guided through the comprehensive phases of designing and carrying out a complete animal behavior study within a zoo setting. This includes exploring and applying various kinds of study designs and collection methods, specifically tailored for zoo-housed animals.
• Data Collection Rigor: You will learn and implement best practices for rigorous data collection, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of observational data critical for scientific research.
• Methodological Application: Receive focused training and support in applying behavior methodology that is specifically adapted and effective for studying animals housed within a zoo environment.
• Data Analysis & Interpretation: You will receive comprehensive training and support in analyzing the collected behavioral data, transforming raw observations into meaningful results and insights.
• Research Synthesis & Presentation: Prepare a final presentation or report that effectively summarizes your research findings, articulates key insights, and provides well-supported future recommendations for animal care or further study.

The Must-Haves
• Background: Early Career. Must be 18 years of age or older. Must be a current student enrolled in a degree-granting program. Must be eligible to work in the United States and successfully pass a background screening if accepted (provided by WCS).
• Experience: No specific prior experience in years or platforms is required for this early career internship.
• Skills: Possess the ability to operate effectively and maintain composure in a busy and fast-paced environment, typical of a zoo setting.