Volunteer Research
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Volunteer Recruitment Closed
Volunteer recruitment for spring and summer has closed. Please submit an application to be contacted about future volunteer opportunities when recruitment reopens.
Behavioral Animal Research
Assignment Responsibilities
Assignment Responsibilities
Volunteers contribute to scientific research at the North Carolina Zoo. Through observing and recording behavioral data on the Zoo’s animals, volunteers provide critical information to our animal care teams that help shape management plans. Volunteers closely observe predetermined animals and record behaviors using a handheld tablet. Through working with curatorial and animal staff, volunteers get an inside look into animal management and directly contribute to improving the lives of animals. This research is part of our overall goal to continuously assess and enhance the welfare of our animals.
Time Commitments
Time Commitments
Available Shifts: Year-Round, 7 days a week, 9:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. or 1:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Applicants should be available to establish and commit to two shifts each month for a minimum of six months on a recurring schedule of the same day every other week. (For example, every other Saturday.) Variations from the requested schedule must be approved in advance.
Training
Training
Volunteers will complete training on software and tablet (provided), animal behavior observational training, and behavior identification.
Age Requirement
Age Requirement
Minimum age requirement is 18 years old
Apply to Volunteer
Interested in becoming a Zoo volunteer? Complete the online volunteer application and you will be contacted regarding orientation and training. Please complete only one application regardless of the area of interest.
Complete a Volunteer Interest Form