Science Illustration Intern Opportunity: Apply for the Spring 2026 Smithsonian SERC Internship

The Science Illustration Intern program at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC) is now accepting functions for Spring 2026. With two positions obtainable, this chance provides early-career science illustrators the likelihood to develop professionally, develop scientific communication expertise, and work carefully with energetic researchers in considered one of the most revered environmental analysis establishments in the world. If you’re looking for a job that merges artwork, science, fieldwork, and training, this Science Illustration Intern placement is an distinctive pathway into the subject.

About the Science Illustration Intern Role

Posted on November 10, 2025, this absolutely funded 11-week place begins in February 2026 (actual dates can be organized in session with chosen candidates). The internship is full-time, onsite, and takes place at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center in Edgewater, Maryland. Interns will obtain:

– $700 weekly stipend

– Relocation funds for journey to and from SERC

– Onsite dormitory housing

Unlike conventional artwork internships, this Science Illustration Intern program focuses much less on creative mentorship and extra on hands-on alternatives to apply current illustration expertise to actual scientific work. Interns will collaborate straight with environmental researchers, becoming a member of them in each subject and lab settings to achieve firsthand understanding of the ecological programs they’ll illustrate.

Why This Science Illustration Intern Opportunity Stands Out

– SERC provides a novel creative-scientific atmosphere. Interns will produce illustrations that assist analysis, training, and public engagement whereas concurrently growing their skilled portfolio.

– Participants may even profit from unique skilled improvement visits inside the Smithsonian community, together with:

• Smithsonian Exhibits facility – to see how scientific visuals grow to be public-facing shows
• Botanical artwork collections at the National Museum of Natural History
• Opportunities to look at how science and artwork merge throughout Smithsonian departments

This makes the Science Illustration Intern function supreme for anybody searching for a profession that blends creativity with scientific affect.

Qualifications for the Science Illustration Intern Position

Applicants don’t want to satisfy each requirement—SERC encourages various backgrounds and expertise. Ideal candidates might have:

– Experience in scientific illustration

– Background in visible arts or graphic design

– Interest in science communication

– Curiosity about the intersection of artwork and science

– Ability to work independently and collaboratively

– Because this program is designed to strengthen science communication, the strongest candidates will show enthusiasm for making scientific concepts comprehensible and visually compelling.

 

Learning Objectives for Science Illustration Interns

The internship is structured to assist members achieve significant skilled expertise. By the finish of the 11 weeks, interns could have the alternative to:

– Participate straight in subject and laboratory environmental science work

– Collaborate with researchers to create correct visible science merchandise

– Deepen understanding of scientific workflows, ecosystems, and analysis strategies

– Produce a number of polished scientific illustrations for use in SERC science and outreach actions

These outcomes make the program particularly precious for rising illustrators hoping to develop their portfolio with credible, research-based work.

How to Apply for the Science Illustration Intern Program

Interested candidates ought to put together the following:

– Cover letter summarizing related expertise and pursuits

– Resume

– Portfolio samples showcasing scientific illustrations

All supplies needs to be emailed to Anna Davis at DavisAM@si.edu earlier than the deadline.

Deadline: December 1, 2025

Applicants with accessibility wants might request affordable lodging by contacting RichardsonHF@si.edu.

About the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC)

Located on a fantastic 2,650-acre campus alongside the Chesapeake Bay, SERC serves as a residing laboratory for long-term analysis on forests, wetlands, shorelines, estuaries, and farmland ecosystems. The campus consists of laboratories, school rooms, waterfront amenities, training facilities, and housing for interns and guests.

SERC and the Smithsonian Institution are strongly dedicated to variety, fairness, and equal alternative. They encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply, emphasizing that candidates deliver distinctive strengths—whether or not or not they meet each most well-liked qualification. See Smithsonian EEO program data HERE

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