The Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies is a unique not-for-profit organization where scientists, educators, students, visitors, and volunteers work and learn together.

• Our scientists study environmental issues that shape the quality of the world we live in, from freshwater health to air quality.
• Institute educators communicate our research to students of all ages, to teachers, and to the general public.
• School groups experience hands on learning during Ecology Field Programs.

If you have questions please e-mail inquiries to
the Volunteer Coordinator

To Apply
Complete this online form

Volunteers help our staff in the following areas:

Education

Volunteer Educators Needed

Make a difference, have fun, and explore the grounds. Become a Volunteer Educator and help lead elementary school children through an active learning program about ecology, the scientific process, and the natural world. If you are capable of understanding and conveying basic ecological principles to children, if you can apply inquiry-based teaching methods; if you can help manage a group of up to 30 children and move freely in the natural landscape in seasonal weather conditions, please inquire about this opportunity. Education programs are held on our 2,000 acre campus as well as in local schoolyards

Volunteer Supervisor – Jen Rubbo

Rhinebeck Eco-Initiative

Duration: Jan-June 2012; hours are flexible but generally during the school day (7am-3:00pm)
Description:  We are working with students in the Rhinebeck school system to understand their school as an ecosystem.  We need volunteers to help carry out investigations with the students, and to work on developing additional lesson plans for the elementary students.

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Contact:  Cornelia Harris

Ecosystem Literacy Initiative Website

Duration: Ongoing
Description: The Institute is looking for one education intern that would work in 2 facets of the Ecosystem Literacy Initiative Website:

• Ecology of Lyme disease - online interactive story. Cary educators have developed an online interactive story for middle school students to teach about the ecology of Lyme disease, food webs and the importance of biodiversity. In addition, we need an intern to use the teacher and student comments, as well as assessment data from students, to modify the website (using Xerte – an open-source, user-friendly software). Modification of the website can happen in late spring or during the summer. 
• Online lesson plan database. Cary Institute staff have recently uploaded over 200 lessons and other educational materials. We would like someone to test this system while also making editorial changes to the materials.

Qualifications: The intern/volunteer should have solid computer skills
Requirements: Intern/volunteer can work either on or off site (though on site is preferred). This work can be full or part time.

Research

Submerged Vegetation Researchers Needed

Mid-June to early autumn as needed - ongoing

Do you enjoy being on the Hudson River? Are you interested in collecting data for critical research? Are you able to maneuver in small boats, i.e., kayaks, canoes? If so, this opportunity may be for you. Volunteer Monitors are needed for mapping submerged aquatic vegetation. All participants will be required to attend a one day training workshop on procedures and safety protocols.

Volunteer Supervisor - Stuart Findlay

Clerical

Development Office Clerical and Special Events Volunteer

The Development Office seeks a volunteer approximately 1-2 days per month to assist with clerical duties, membership mailings, and occasional assistance with special events.

Volunteer Supervisor - Vicki Doyle