Internship opportunity with the IUCN Freshwater Biodiversity Assessment Programme, Cambridge, UK.

The IUCN Freshwater Biodiversity Assessment Programme is looking for an intern for a period of 6-12 months (starting as soon as possible) to assist with various activities relating to the global conservation of aquatic biodiversity (freshwater). The current focus of the programme is collation of information on the status and distribution of freshwater aquatic species both regionally, and globally.

The principal duties for this position will include: (i) review and input of data from the ongoing biodiversity assessments; (ii) digitising species distribution maps; (iii) assistance in the organisation and running of training workshops; and (iv) assistance in proposal writing and information collation for future related projects.

Key qualifications will include: a wide knowledge of issues relating to the conservation of biodiversity, preferably in inland waters; previous experience in organising meetings and workshops; ability to work with limited supervision; a high level of expertise in GIS packages such as ArcView (essential) and MS Access, and; excellent writing and communication skills. Knowledge of French and/or Spanish will be advantageous.

The successful candidate will be based in the Cambridge office but may on occasion be asked to attend meetings outside the UK. The position is for a six month period with possibility of extension to twelve months. IUCN pays a stipend of GBP 1000 per month.

Applicants should send a covering letter, full CV, and contact details for two referees, to: Dr William Darwall, IUCN Freshwater Biodiversity Assessment Programme, 219c Huntingdon Road, Cambridge CB3 ODL, UK; Tel: +44 (0)1223 277 966; Fax: +44 (0)1223 277 845; E-mail: will.darwall@ssc-uk.org

The closing date for applications is June 15th 2004. Details of terms and conditions are available on request.