Memphis Zoo is seeking a highly motivated, ambitious, and energetic individual for Assisted Reproduction (ART) and Molecular Biology Research Internship in the Department of Conservation and Research to support the study and implementation of assisted reproductive techniques, biobanking genetics, and molecular methods of wildlife disease detection. The position is available to upper-level undergraduate students and early post-college graduates, and offers a unique research experience in a zoo setting working with scientists conducting cutting edge and frontline projects to save wildlife. Position provides valuable training in laboratory techniques, experimental design, and data analysis for many professional careers in general biology, conservation, ecology, and veterinary sciences.

Summary:

The Reproduction and Molecular Biology intern will study multiple aspects of reproductive physiology and disease detection of endangered species. Interns will be trained in the use of a variety of laboratory equipment and skills to assist with the investigation of biomarkers of health and the development of assisted reproductive technologies for mammals, snakes, and tarantula.  Depending on project needs, interns will learn and apply techniques of DNA extraction, semen analysis, and sperm cryopreservation, as well as gain experience and knowledge in pathogen detection using qPCR, reproductive physiology, and behavior observations. Interns may also participate in educational outreach, and perform husbandry duties for endangered Mississippi gopher frogs and Louisiana pinesnakes.

Essential Dates:

• This is a 12-week internship (90 day).
• Completed applications are due May 1, 2026.
  • Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and the position may be filled before the posting closes.
• Start date is flexible for the position but preferred start by June 8th.

Project Objectives:

• Collect and analyze sperm from endangered snakes.
• Test methods and cryopreserve semen for genetic biobanking.
• Explore optimal techniques and timing for pathogen detection.
• Extract DNA from tissues, fecal, and swab samples for downstream pathogen testing with qPCR.
• Analyze blood smears and sperm morphology for seasonal and health correlations.
• Learn about the use of assisted reproductive techniques (ART) for wildlife.

Minimum Education and Experience:

• Completion of at least 2 years of undergraduate coursework in animal or biological sciences and at least two laboratory-based courses.
• Experience in using basic lab equipment and micropipettes.
• Applicants must be able to perform repetitive tasks in a laboratory setting.
• Able to follow directions, work independently. 

Preferred Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degrees in biology, zoology, ecology, animal behavior, or related fields.
• Previous research experience in biological research in laboratory and/or field setting.
• Interest in pursuing graduate school or careers in ecology, physiology, veterinary or conservation science.

Competencies:

• Collaboration.
• Critical Thinking.
• Detail-Orientation.
• Flexibility/Adaptability.
• Microsoft Office Suite.
• Problem Solving/Analysis.
• Self-Motivation and Initiative.
• Written/Verbal/Oral Communication.

Supervisory Responsibility: None.

Reporting Structure: Reports directly to the Senior Conservation Biologist. Intern will also be supported and mentored by Conservation Lab Manager, Post-Doctoral Fellow, and Research Tech.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:

This internship position works up to 40 hours a week and often requires flexible hours including day, evening, and weekend hours. A mixture of field work, lab work, travel, and administration are to be expected. Travel to other zoos and working unconventional hours may occur, dependent on project needs.

This position is considered nonexempt under the federal and state wage and hour laws. 

Work Environment:

While performing the duties of the internship, the intern will frequently work in alternate settings between indoors (lab/office environment) and outdoors (Zoo grounds or field sites). When outdoors this position is required to work in various weather conditions including rain, humidity, and extreme heat or cold.

Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this internship.

This position requires frequent sitting/standing/walking/bending/kneeling and may occasionally move or lift objects up to 50 pounds. Position also requires ability to navigate through Zoo grounds and to/around field sites.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Other Duties: Please note this internship description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this position. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Other Requirements:

• 18 years or older.
• Clear background check.
• Clear drug screening.
• Clear TB screening.

Perks

Memphis Zoo offers perks for interns and team members. For details, please see the section titled “Perks for All Team Members” on our Memphis Zoo Careers page.

Paid Housing

Free housing may be provided in the Memphis Zoo’s condominium located 1.5 miles from the zoo. The 2 bedrooms/2 baths furnished condominium with washer/dryer/dishwasher houses up to 4 people/bedroom (bedrooms shared with a same-sex roommates).

EEOC and Inclusion Statement: 

The Memphis Zoo believes that human diversity is as important as the biodiversity we seek to conserve. World-class zoos are comprised of world-class team members representing a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We value a diverse workplace and strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, members of ethnic minorities, and veterans to apply. 

The Memphis Zoo is an equal-opportunity employer. Applicants will not be discriminated against because of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, citizenship status, disability, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, medical condition, or any protected category prohibited by local, state or federal laws. If you need to request any accommodations for the interview or hiring process, please let the Human Resources team (HR) know. HR can be contacted at hrteam@memphiszoo.org. 

The Memphis Zoo participates in E-Verify and is an EEO/ADA/Veteran employer.

All offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of pre-employment screening. Memphis Zoo is a drug-free workplace.

Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.