PALAEO-INTERNSHIP PROGRAMME

Programme Overview

Are you passionate about paleontology and eager to gain hands-on experience in the field of palaeontology? The Palaeo-Internship at the Natural Sciences Museum offers an exciting opportunity for aspiring palaeontologists to work alongside our experts and gain invaluable insight into fossil research, excavation, and conservation. This educational program is designed to provide interns with practical skills and knowledge that will help them advance their careers in palaeontology or related fields.

About the Palaeo-Internship Program

The Paleo-Internship is a unique opportunity for individuals who are enthusiastic about fossils, prehistoric life, and the science behind paleontological research. Interns will have the chance to work on a variety of exciting projects, from fossil preparation and conservation to research and documentation. This immersive program allows participants to get hands-on experience in a professional museum setting while contributing to real research projects.

What You’ll Do

As a Palaeo-Intern, you’ll have the chance to work on a variety of paleontological tasks, including:

Fossil Preparation: Help prepare fossils for research and display, learning essential techniques used by professional preparatory.
Field-Work: Assist with excavation projects in the field, gaining experience in jacketing, site recording, and understanding excavation techniques.
Research and Documentation: Support the research team in identifying, cataloging, and documenting fossil specimens. This may involve working with the curator on the museum’s database and collections.
Educational Support: Assist with creating educational materials for museum visitors, school groups, and outreach programs.
Lab Work: Participate in the conservation of fossils and the scientific analysis of fossils. Learn conservation and imaging techniques, including CT scanning experience.

What You’ll Gain

The Paleo-Internship offers a wide range of professional development opportunities, including:

Hands-On Experience: Gain practical, real-world experience working in the museum’s labs, archives, and collection areas.
Mentorship: Work directly with our experts gaining insight into their work and career paths.
Skills Development: Learn essential skills related to fossil conservation, palaebiology research methodologies, and the scientific documentation of specimens.
Networking Opportunities: Build connections with professionals in the field of palaeontology, museum studies, and conservation.
Resume-Boosting Experience: Enhance your CV with meaningful experience that can be valuable for future employment or academic pursuits in palaeontology or related fields.

Eligibility and Application Process

The Paleo-Internship is open to students, recent graduates, or individuals with a strong interest in palaeontology. Ideal candidates should have:

A passion for palaeontology and the natural sciences.
A background in biology, geology, or a related field (or current studies in these areas).
Strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
A willingness to learn and contribute to ongoing research and museum activities.

To apply for the Paleo-Internship, please submit the following:

A current CV highlighting your academic background and any relevant experience.
A cover letter explaining your interest in palaeontology and why you would be a good fit for the internship.
A reference letter from an academic advisor or professional in a relevant field (optional but recommended).

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and we encourage applicants to apply early. The deadline for applications is 25th April 2025. For further details on how to apply or to check the availability of internship placements, please contact us.

Internship Duration and Location

Duration: The internship lasts 4 weeks.
Start Date: The Internship starts on 4th August 2025.
Location: The internship takes place at the Natural Sciences Museum, providing interns with access to our facilities, collections, and expert resources.

Get Involved

The Paleo-Internship offers a fantastic chance to gain hands-on experience, make valuable connections in the paleontological community, and immerse yourself in the world of fossils. Whether you're looking to pursue a career in palaeontology, conservation, or museum studies, this internship will help you take the first step towards your future. If you’re ready to embark on an exciting journey into the world of palaeontology, apply for the Palaeo-Internship today and be part of the Natural Sciences Museum’s mission to explore, preserve, and share the wonders of the past. For more information or to submit an application, please contact our team at education@naturalsciencesmuseum.org. We look forward to welcoming the next generation of palaeontologists!