Biodiversity Intern (Research) at Lilongwe Wildlife Trust

Company Description:

Lilongwe Wildlife Trust was established in 2008 when we opened the doors to Malawi’s first and only accredited wildlife sanctuary, Lilongwe Wildlife Centre. Since then we have grown to become one of the country’s leading conservation NGOs. Our vision is a future in which Malawi’s wildlife and wild places can thrive.

Job title: Research Intern

Working location: Lilongwe Wildlife Trust (LWT) offices in central Lilongwe and various protected areas in Malawi

Department:

Biodiversity Research

Full-time

12- month position with the possibility of extension

Job description:

We are looking for a motivated Research Intern to join our biodiversity research team. The successful candidate will support field-based ecological monitoring and data collection across key protected areas in Malawi. They will also be involved with desk-based activities such as report writing, data entry and camera trap analysis.

This is a unique opportunity for early-career conservationists to gain hands-on experience in wildlife monitoring, contribute to meaningful research, and work alongside a passionate team of researchers. You’ll get involved with a variety of desk-based and fieldwork opportunities, including the post-release monitoring of release animals, and will also support our ongoing biodiversity research project in Liwonde National Park. You’ll develop report writing, data management, and GIS skills.

This position is based at our office in Lilongwe but there will be a frequent need to travel for fieldwork.

Essential duties and responsibilities:

• Assist in regular fieldwork activities, including VHF tracking, camera trapping, welfare checks, and data entry
• Support data management and reporting
• Liaise with stakeholders and field partners as needed
• Travel regularly between Lilongwe and various protected areas in Malawi for fieldwork
• Support in volunteer management

What you’ll learn:

• Practical experience in radio tracking, camera trapping, and other data collection techniques
• Project management, QGIS, and reporting skills
• Experience in field-based volunteer coordination and training

Requirements:

• Degree in Wildlife Biology, Environmental Science, or related field
• Must be able to drive a manual vehicle; preference for those with bush driving experience and vehicle maintenance experience
• Physically fit, comfortable in remote field settings, and willing to work irregular hours
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail
• Comfortable with living in a communal environment during fieldwork and at basic field sites
• Preferably based in Lilongwe and willing to travel frequently

This is an unpaid position. All travel within Lilongwe, as well as field expenses (food, accommodation, and travel outside of Lilongwe) will be covered.

Method Of Application

Please send a covering letter and CV to [email protected]

 

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Closing date:

30 June 2025

We will begin reviewing applications after the closing date.

LWT is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. All employment decisions are based on qualifications and experience, merit and organisational need and all reasonable adjustments will be made where possible.