Title: Entomology Volunteer

Position Type: Volunteer, Part-time

Work Location: Based in Fort Collins, CO at Colorado State University

Pay Rate: This is an unpaid, volunteer position.

Benefits: Training in entomological specimen preparation and data processing, 
professional mentorship, and the opportunity to contribute to one of the largest 
biodiversity surveys in Colorado history.

Duration: Flexible, minimum commitment of 5 hours per week.

Position Summary

The Colorado Natural Heritage Program (CNHP) is midway through a five-year Statewide Natural Heritage Survey (SNHS), an ambitious effort to document and catalog Colorado’s biodiversity. Insects, which make up the majority of terrestrial life, are a key focus of this initiative.

Given that insects comprise such an enormous component of Colorado biodiversity, collecting data on them is no small task. During the summer months, CNHP entomologists work round the clock to collect, catalog, and observe these six-legged Colorado denizens. The resultant stockpile of precious data in the form of insect specimens is ever growing. That’s why the Colorado Natural Heritage Program needs you! This is an excellent opportunity for students, naturalists, or community members eager to gain hands-on experience in entomology, biodiversity research, and museum curation.

We are seeking detail-oriented volunteers to help process insect specimens and their associated data. Volunteers will assist CNHP’s entomologists with specimen preparation, labeling, imaging, data digitization, and specimen curation. Training will be provided with the goal of each volunteer becoming self-sufficient within one month.

Responsibilities/Duties

1. Pin, point, and prepare frozen insect specimens to research-grade standards.
2. Label prepared specimens, digitize hand-written labels, and ensure accurate data documentation.
3. Capture specimen images using digital microscopes to record anatomical features.
4. Upload insect images and collection data to CNHP’s iNaturalist account.
5. Sort prepared insect specimens by taxonomic order and assist with deposition into the C. P. Gillette Arthropod Diversity Museum at Colorado State University.

Required Qualifications

1. Ability to commit at least 5 hours per week.
2. Attention to detail and commitment to accurate scientific data entry.
3. Strong organizational and time management skills.
4. Willingness to work independently after training.
5. Interest in insects, biodiversity, or conservation science

Preferred Qualifications 

1. Coursework or background in entomology, biology, ecology, or a related field.
2. Prior experience with laboratory work, data entry, or imaging software.
3. Familiarity with iNaturalist or similar citizen science platforms.
4. Experience handling scientific specimens.