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Do you love helping others understand and engage in science? TESI’s Environmental Leaders Interns gain important skills in science communication and outreach, all while helping communicate Earth systems science issues in Florida, and beyond!

About TESI

The University of Florida Thompson Earth Systems Institute (TESI) is advancing communication and education about Earth systems science in a way that inspires Floridians to be effective stewards of our planet. TESI accomplishes its mission through public programming, digital communication, K-12 outreach, and science communication professional development. Part of the Florida Museum of Natural History, our vision is to lead the way to a healthier planet by cultivating a responsible and curious society that values, trusts, and has access to science.

See below for further information on TESI and its activities:

Position Summary

TESI Environmental Leaders Interns are valued team members who make important contributions to our mission. Interns develop social media content, write newsletter articles, create videos, and more, all focused on communicating Earth systems issues to Floridians, and beyond. During their time with us, students hone their science communication skills and broaden their knowledge about key environmental issues in Florida and across the globe.

Specifically, this Intern will serve as a critical arm of the TESI Digital Outreach team in association with the Science and Technologies for Phosphorus Sustainability (STEPS) program. The Intern will create an ArcGIS StoryMap on STEPS research and innovations. The Intern will interview STEPS scientists to develop a narrative story for the general public. This is a truly hands-on experience! 

Basic Duties

  • Researching STEPS concepts to create a narrative story pitch 
  • Interview STEPS scientists 
  • Write and design an ArcGIS StoryMap 

Visit the following link to see products from current and previous Communicators: https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/earth-systems/tesi-students/

Position Location

The position will primarily be in the TESI office suite at:

McGuire Center
3215 Hull Rd
Gainesville, FL 32611

Eligibility

This position is open to all junior or senior undergraduate students and graduate students who have an interest and willingness to learn more about science communication and phosphorus. 

Candidates must also have an interest in writing and multimedia production. A good handle on grammar and punctuation is a must. Throughout their time working for TESI, the Intern will receive mentoring on writing, editing, and graphic design. 

Hours per Week

The Intern will work 10 hours per week between the hours of 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. 

Minimum Qualifications

  • Strong writing skills, with attention to appropriate spelling, grammar, and mechanics 
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team 
  • Background or strong interest in science or science communication 

Preferred Qualifications

  • Graphic design skills (or willingness to learn) 
  • Interviewing skills (or willingness to learn) 

Start Date

Summer 2026

Pay Rate

$17/hour

Position Duration

Summer 2026

Contact Information

Carla Ruffer, TESI Communications Manager, rufferc@floridamuseum.ufl.edu

To Apply

Submit an application through the following link: Apply to the position here. A complete application must include:

  • Cover letter
  • Resume
  • One long-form work sample, such as a blog, paper from class, feature story, etc. 
  • Phone and email contact information for 2 professional references

Deadline to Apply

Applications will be reviewed as they are received. The final deadline to apply is 11:59 pm on Friday, June 5, 2026.