Ethology Research Intern

***Application Deadline Friday, July 14, 2025 by 12pm EST***

Summary: The Research Department at Farm Sanctuary performs original animal behavior, personality, emotion, cognition, welfare, and behavior research in pursuance of a better understanding of the inner lives of farmed animals. The Intern, Ethology Research will assist the Research team with ethology and sanctuary animal welfare research through remote video data collection.

Responsibilities:

• Assist with video data collection as part of non-invasive, sanctuary-based research studies at Farm Sanctuary, contributing to the body of research on the emotional, social, and cognitive lives of farm animals. 
• Read and evaluate existing literature and actively participate in conversations about scientific papers 
• Perform literature reviews in support of new and existing research and sanctuary animal welfare projects
• Support the research program with administrative tasks as necessary 

Qualifications:

• In pursuance of a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in animal behavior, animal welfare, biology, zoology, psychology, or related field; or recently graduated
• Excellent observational skills
• Good organizational skills and attention to detail
• Hard-working and dependable
• Able to work well independently
• Alignment with Farm Sanctuary’s values of compassion, understanding, integrity, transformation, and freedom. 

• Familiarity, commitment to, and experience with the practice of equity and social justice, and the principles embedded in Farm Sanctuary’s mission

Specifications:

• Terms of employment: Part-time (20 hours per week), non-exempt, temporary position 

Reports to: Ethology Research Assistant

• Location: Remote in the United States

Pay: $15.50/hr unless state minimum wage is higher

• Benefits: Sick Time, 403B Plan
• Additional Specifications: 
• This position requires a commitment of six months (September through February)
• Access to a computer is required

Program Perks:

• Attend weekly Farm Sanctuary education workshops that include presentations, staff Q&As, team-building exercises, and hands-on learning opportunities
• Gain beneficial work experience in nonprofit employment, especially within vegan, animal rights, and sanctuary organizations
• Make strong professional connections and references
• Gain valuable insight about ethical ethology and sanctuary animal welfare study design 
• Opportunity to gain and practice animal behavior data collection skills
• Opportunity to learn about Farm Sanctuary programs
• Further the goals and mission of Farm Sanctuary to benefit farm animals

Farm Sanctuary is committed to a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace where all employees are respected, valued, and feel a sense of belonging. We work hard to provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type. We take our duty seriously to protect employees with regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

We believe that our prioritization of diversity, equity, and inclusion is a strength and essential to achieving our mission. A diverse workforce brings many perspectives, ideas, and experiences, leading to more creative and effective solutions to our complex issues. By embracing diversity and creating an inclusive environment, we foster a culture of belonging where innovation and growth can thrive. We are dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of our organization, including hiring and recruitment practices, employee development and training, and interactions with the communities we serve. We believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion are core components in fulfilling our mission of rescuing and protecting farmed animals from cruelty, and we are committed to creating a culture of respect, civility, and compassion for all.

The job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required for this position. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

Any photos or videos taken in the scope of employment and/or related to Farm Sanctuary are considered work product and intellectual property of Farm Sanctuary.