INTERNSHIP DETAILS

Kirtlandia Intern - Molecular Paleontology

CompanyCleveland Museum of Natural History
LocationCleveland
Work ModeOn Site
PostedFebruary 18, 2026
Internship Information
Core Responsibilities
The intern will contribute to developing the Molecular Paleontology Research Collection by testing collection practices to create standardized kits and an SOP for collecting vertebrate samples suitable for molecular analysis. Responsibilities also include assigned research tasks such as labeling, sorting, cataloging, identification, digitization, imaging, data collection, analysis, and interpretation.
Internship Type
intern
Company Size
212
Visa Sponsorship
No
Language
English
Working Hours
40 hours
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About The Company
The Cleveland Museum of Natural History (CMNH), founded in 1920, is located in the heart of University Circle, five miles east of downtown Cleveland, Ohio. Considered one of the finest institutions of its kind in North America, the Museum offers an incredible visitor experience, attracting roughly 275,000 visitors a year. There are more than 140 public education programs and over 80,000 students served annually. The Museum employs about 160 people. Building on its strong foundation of excellence in education and research, the Museum is poised to transform itself. The Museum will invite and engage a broader audience in the exploration of science and the natural world by revolutionizing the way it presents natural history. The Museum has launched a capital campaign to support a dramatic renovation and expansion of its facilities and exhibits. This ambitious plan will position the Museum to play a leading role in regional and national efforts to improve science education and increase scientific literacy.
About the Role

Molecular Paleontology Collection Intern 

 

Job Summary: 

 

The Molecular Paleontology Collection Intern will contribute to the development of the Cleveland Museum of Natural History Molecular Paleontology Research Collection. They will test different collection practices to develop standardized kits and an SOP for collecting vertebrate samples suitable for molecular analysis that will be housed in the collection. They will participate in 1-2 weeks of fieldwork in western North America to test the kits and collect specimens. The outcomes of the project will include the development of fossil collection kits, an SOP for collecting vertebrate specimens for molecular analysis, a short paper focused on findings, and a presentation at the end of the internship symposium (talk and poster).

 

This is an 8-week program at 40 hours per week (320 hours), exact dates will be arranged with your direct supervisor. Interns will present their internship-related activities at the Friends of CMNH annual August luncheon meeting. More information can be found here: Internships | Cleveland Museum of Natural History 

 

Eligibility: 

 

Program applicants must be attending an accredited college or university or must have graduated from college within six months prior to application submittal 

 

Required to Apply: 

 

  1. Write a brief 1-2 page statement that:
    • Details your background and research interests
    • Explains why you are a good candidate for this position
    • Describes your previous training and research experience
    • Discusses how you expect to benefit from your experience as a Research Intern
  2. Curriculum vitae
  3. Two letters of recommendation with your application. Alternatively, letter writers may email them directly to hr@cmnh.org 

Application Deadline: March 13, 2026

 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: 

 

  • Responsible for assigned tasks associated with research activities including, but not limited to, labeling, sorting, cataloging, identification, digitization, imaging, monitoring, data collection, analysis, and interpretation
  • Assist in accurate record keeping of research activities 
  • Responsible for handling Museum objects with care and attention to mitigate damage 
  • Performs all duties according to established Museum and Department operating, safety, and environmental and quality policies 
  • Adheres to the CMNH Manual of Research and Collections Policies. 
  • Performs other duties as assigned by supervisor or museum management. 

 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

 

  • Excellent organizational skills and exceptional attention to detail  
  • Strong problem solving and listening skills 
  • Ability to handle collection objects carefully and safely to not cause damage 
  • Proficient knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite products, including Word, Excel, and Power Point  
  • Ability to communicate effectively both written and orally 
  • Ability to work successfully with Museum personnel, including staff, students, interns, and volunteers 
  • Working knowledge of relevant research tools including microscopes, specimen preparation tools, and databases 

 

 

Working Conditions: 

 

Conducting indoor and outdoor research activities that may require physical effort. This position includes hiking long distances in variable climates, excavation, and camping in semi-remote areas. May be exposed to low humidity and dust. Must be able to lift 30lbs with or without reasonable accommodations.  

 

The Cleveland Museum of Natural History is an EQUAL OPPORTUNITY, ADA EMPLOYER, and a SUBSTANCE-FREE WORKPLACE 

Key Skills
Organizational SkillsAttention To DetailProblem SolvingListening SkillsCommunicationRecord KeepingData CollectionInterpretationSpecimen HandlingMicrosoft Office SuiteMicroscopesDatabases
Categories
Science & ResearchEnvironmental & Sustainability