Plant Conservation Genomics Assistant

Overview:

Career paths into the conservation field are not straightforward or obvious for many. The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden’s Conservation Internship Program is designed to give career-building, hands-on conservation experience to individuals who are interested in a career in the conservation and research space but have not yet had the opportunity or guidance into this rewarding field. Through this internship, we aim to bring in people curious and passionate about the environment who will bring in fresh ideas and new energy strengthening this field and facilitating shared leadership. 

The Plant Conservation Genomics Assistant will work with the Biodiversity Team to use molecular genomics techniques to understand and conserve the California flora. In addition to providing training and experience relevant to this internship, the Garden is committed to supporting the intern through:

• Professional development opportunities including workshops and graduate school panels
• Participation in a research project
• Presenting a poster of your research project at a local botanical symposium in the fall
• Becoming part of a network of scientists at various career stages as you take your first steps into plant conservation

This temporary position is being offered at 20 hours per week, for 8-10 weeks, between June and September 2026, and reports to the Plant Genomics Lab Manager.

What You’ll Do:

• Work in the SBBG Plant Genomics Lab, assisting with data collection on a focused research question
• Learn laboratory techniques including genomic DNA isolation and gel electrophoresis
• May assist with sequence analysis
• Help the Garden with outreach by presenting results as a poster 

While botany or lab experience is not necessary, however ...

You Will Definitely Need:

• A keen interest in botanical conservation topics and attention to detail are essential. 
  
• To be a college-level student (you need not be currently enrolled) OR have relevant experience or education
• A strong interest in botany, rare plant conservation, ecology, or related fields with career goals in this direction
• Manual dexterity sufficient to make careful plant dissections, handle priceless museum specimens, or precisely sample and transfer small volumes of fluid using micropipettes.
• Basic computer skills
• Support for the Garden’s mission and goals
• A reliable means of transportation to and from the Garden

You Must Be Able To:

• Sit for up to 2 hours at a time and use a computer for lengthy periods
• Stand/walk for extended periods of time
• Work regularly onsite at the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden

Your Application Must Include:

• One letter of recommendation
• A letter of interest where you address at least three of the following questions that describe your commitment to conservation:
  • What about this internship is most exciting to you?
  • What conservation or research experience do you have? 
  • What skills do you expect to gain and how will that benefit you?
  • What are some characteristics about you that you think make you a good candidate? 

**Incomplete applications will not be considered**

More About Us:

The Garden is a beautiful place to work!  And in this role, you are often outdoors.  In addition to beautiful views, outdoor work environments also include exposure to extreme temperature fluctuations, rain, dust, allergens, poison oak, insects, small wild animals, and sun exposure.

Disclaimer:

The employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily, and if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship. Santa Barbara Botanic Garden retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.