Elevation Science Institute’s David B. Jones Summer Field Internship Program is an opportunity for two undergraduate or graduate students to spend the summer enhancing their understanding of field paleontology techniques, contributing to active paleontological research, and developing the skills needed to facilitate a large-scale paleontological field expedition.
What Our Field Interns Do
The application window for the 2027 Field Internship Program will open December 7, 2026. Click on the “Learn More” button for details.
Who May Apply
All applicants must:
Possess U.S. citizenship (Federal laws and regulations simply make the process of hiring non U.S. citizens too difficult and complicated for our small organization to handle.)
Currently be enrolled in or a recent graduate of undergraduate/graduate studies in a paleontology-related field (biology, geology, etc.) at an accredited college or university or demonstrate similar qualifications through related employment.
Have completed at least 3 years (approx. 90 credits) of higher education in a related field or comparative employment by the time of the internship.
Demonstrate achievement and a commitment to the field of paleontology through academic work and/or non-academic, relevant work experience (museums, field stations, etc.)
Be able to work outdoors in stressful and/or adverse weather conditions (especially high heat) for extended periods of time in rugged, arid terrain. Typical activities include hiking, digging, jacketing, lifting and carrying heavy supplies and equipment not in excess of 40 lbs.
Effectively communicate and interact with the public (especially expedition participants) and positively represent the Elevation Science Institute at social, radio/TV or online events. Strong interpersonal skills are a necessity.
Participate in the entire field season from June 23 to August 17. Exceptional cases may be considered.
General Information
Location
Base camp is located at the Yellowstone-Bighorn Research Association in Red Lodge, MT with field operations usually occurring in the Bighorn Basin along the MT/WY border between the Beartooth and Pryor Mountain ranges.
Duration
Approximately June 23 - August 17, 2027
Housing & Meals
Housing & meals at YBRA is provided to interns at no cost. Interns live in semi-private cabins at YBRA and will have access to wi-fi, onsite laundry and limited refrigerator/freezer space. Meals and snacks acquired off site will be at the intern's cost, except in cases of Team meals. *Limited dietary restrictions can be accommodated by YBRA (vegetarian & vegan). Intern will be responsible for acquiring additional items at their own cost.
Questions?
Please click on the “Learn More” button above for a full program description. Further questions should be addressed to Dr. Rick Schmidt at rschmidt@elevationscience.org.
Opportunities At Other Organizations
There are dozens of internship and seasonal employment opportunities across the country available to undergraduate and graduate students in college, early-career professional paleontologists, and even some for enthusiastic high-school students. We have compiled the most comprehensive and detailed list of opportunites available anywhere - check it out! Please let us know if we’ve missed any, and check back often - new opportunities are announced all the time.