Conservation AI Intern

Conservation International protects nature for the benefit of humanity. Through science, policy, fieldwork, and finance, we spotlight and secure the most important places in nature for the climate, biodiversity, and for people. With offices in 30 countries and projects in more than 100 countries, Conservation International partners with governments, companies, civil society, Indigenous peoples, and local communities to help people and nature thrive together.

POSITION SUMMARY - This position is based in Arlington-VA, Seattle-WA or Santa Barbara-CA 

Conservation International is at the forefront of harnessing artificial intelligence to address critical environmental challenges. The rapid advances in AI are breaking down barriers to previously inaccessible technology, creating unprecedented opportunities to accelerate and scale conservation impact. Modern conservation faces complex challenges that require innovative solutions – from monitoring vast ecosystems and biodiversity loss to optimizing limited resources for maximum impact and making scientific data accessible to diverse stakeholders. AI tools can help transform how we map and monitor natural resources, make data-driven conservation decisions, and democratize access to environmental information. This internship position will support Conservation International's Moore Center for Science & Solutions in exploring and implementing AI solutions that address these fundamental conservation challenges. We are looking for someone familiar with modern AI technologies (generative AI, AI agents, LLMs, and foundation models) to prototype solutions, bridge communication between scientific staff and technical developers, and explore innovative approaches to conservation challenges. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

Key Responsibilities will include: 

• Using low-code and no-code AI platforms to prototype solutions for conservation challenges identified by CI team. These could include: 
  • Developing AI agents to assist with the translation of complex science or to facilitate data processing and analysis.  
  • Exploring geo foundation models and geospatial reasoning for concrete, place-based project needs. 
  • Assessing AI-based research assistant and/or coding tools to determine fit for CI use. 
• Documenting capabilities, limitations, and best practices for CI staff to implement AI tools.
• Communicating technical concepts between scientific staff and technology developers.  
• Supporting the testing of AI tools in real-world conservation contexts.

The intern will develop:

• Practical understanding of AI applications in conservation contexts  
• Experience developing low-code solutions for environmental challenges 
• Technical communication skills to bridge science and technology  
• Awareness of ethical AI implementation in conservation  
• Project implementation methodology for translating concepts into practical tools 
• Capstone presentation of findings as part of the CI AI seminar series  

This is a paid internship with a rate of $22.75/hour. This is a 3-month position with the possibility of an additional 3-month extension, contingent on budget availability and intern performance. 

WORKING CONDITIONS

• This is a hybrid internship. The intern must be based near a Conservation International office. 

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

• Working towards the completion of a Bachelor's degree or a recent graduate (not exceeding 3 months post-graduation) in a scientific discipline, preferably environmental science, biology, conservation, or computer science/data science. 
• Interest in applying technology to environmental conservation challenges.  
• High degree of comfort exploring, learning, and experimenting with new tools and technologies. 
• Familiarity with generative AI and machine learning concepts and applications, including a general understanding of how these tools are built and trained. 
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.   
• Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.  

Preferred

• Demonstrated experience with no- or low-code development platforms.
• Understanding of data structures and workflow design.  
• Creative thinking and the ability to envision potential applications.  
• Familiarity with coding languages such as R or Python.

To apply for this position please submit a resume and cover letter.

See all Conservation International Career Opportunities HERE

Conservation International is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals. We believe in hiring based on merit and qualifications, ensuring a fair and inclusive hiring process for everyone.