Intern, Spatial Planning for Climate Change

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 Santa Barbara, CA

This internship supports the Spatial Planning for Climate Change: Land Use for Conservation, Agriculture and Energy (SPARCLE) initiative under the Arnhold UC Santa Barbara–Conservation International Climate Solutions Collaborative. The internship is designed as a structured, graduate-level learning experience focused on applied research in spatial planning for climate change. The intern will contribute to a technical assessment of spatial planning tools and emerging approaches, including the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in conservation planning, while receiving mentorship from Conservation International scientists and gaining exposure to real-world, decision-oriented conservation science.

Responsibilities

• The intern will develop an understanding of how scientific research translates into real-world conservation and land-use decision-making.
• They will gain hands-on experience evaluating spatial planning tools used in conservation prioritization and build knowledge of emerging applications of artificial intelligence (AI) in conservation science.
• The intern will strengthen skills in conducting literature reviews, synthesizing scientific findings, and performing technical assessments.
• They will also gain experience working within a multi-institution, interdisciplinary science team and produce a technical written output summarizing findings and recommendations.
  
  

WORKING CONDITIONS

• This internship will be based in Santa Barbara, California, associated with the UCSB–Conservation International office.
• The position will follow a hybrid work structure, with the intern expected to work approximately one to two days per week in the office and the remainder remotely.
• The role is primarily office-based and computer-focused, involving literature review, data analysis, and technical writing.
• No travel is expected
  
  

Qualifications

Required

• Working towards the completion of a Master’s degree in the following fields of study environmental science, conservation planning, geography, or a related field.
• The candidate should have experience conducting literature reviews and synthesizing scientific information, as well as familiarity with or interest in conservation prioritization tools.
• Experience with GIS or geospatial analysis tools is expected, along with experience or interest in coding languages such as R or Python.
• The candidate should be able to process geospatial datasets and generate mapped outputs, demonstrate strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and communicate technical concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work semi-independently while meeting deadlines are essential.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  
  

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.