Bozen/Bolzano
internship
Center for Global Mountain Safeguard Research
Brief description of the project:
The Center for Global Mountain Safeguard Research is looking for a proactive and enthusiastic junior researcher specializing the field of mountain sustainable development and community resilience for an internship programme in collaboration with UNESCO’s Man and Biosphere Reserve programme (MAB) and the World Network of Mountain Biosphere Reserves (WNMBR). The work conducted at GLOMOS will serve as direct preparation for activities in a designated mountain biosphere reserve, ensuring that the intern’s efforts contribute meaningfully to both general research questions in mountain areas and to site-specific challenges identified by the biosphere reserve.
The internship is part of the newly launched Mountain Research Internship Programme (MRIP), an initiative promoted within the frame of the World Network of Mountain Biosphere Reserves (WNMBR). Developed by the Center for Global Mountain Safeguard Research (GLOMOS), together with the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB), this initiative aims to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world application, connecting the mission and vision of UNESCO and GLOMOS’ Eurac Research office towards facilitating and promoting capacity building while fostering trans- and interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative solutions for sustainable mountain development.
This internship programme offers interns a comprehensive learning experience over the course of three months (plus the facilitation of a follow-up activity in a mountain Biosphere Reserve), combining hands-on field research, laboratory work, skill development, and community engagement within the unique contexts of GLOMOS and a biosphere reserve. It would be delineated as follows:
GLOMOS Phase (3 months): The intern will start its internship at Eurac Research in Bolzano, Italy, in the context of the Global Mountain Safeguard Research (GLOMOS) work. Interns will work closely with researchers and perform duties around field research, data collection, laboratory work and data analysis. While working in the GLOMOS office, the intern’s work will be closely co-monitored by the UNESCO MAB Programme.
Biosphere Reserve Phase (1 month): The internship programme facilitates a follow-up activity (external to the Eurac Research-based internship programme) relocating to the designated mountain biosphere reserve for an intensive field research experience. A short list of potential reserves and their main sustainability challenges will be shared during the selection process, helping candidates understand the likely thematic focus and enabling better alignment with their academic interests. This will be also the opportunity to work on specific research projects aligned with the biosphere reserve’s priorities and needs linked to biological and cultural diversity and sustainable development. Activities can include conducting field surveys, biodiversity assessments, habitat monitoring in collaboration with biosphere reserve staff and local experts, etc.

Tasks:

• Conducting research on one or more of the following research topics, closely linked to real-world sustainability challenges in mountain areas, in close collaboration with the researchers of the Center for Global Mountain Safeguard Research and a designated mountain biosphere reserve:
• Human-nature linkages
• Climate change-related impacts
• Disaster risk management
• Innovative solutions to mountain challenges

The research will likely involve participatory approaches, spatial data analysis, qualitative data collection and analysis, and other methodologies relevant to the field.
Upon completion of the internship programme, the intern will be requested to draft a report of their internship activity and results. The report will be published on the WNMBR website,

Requirements:

• Enrollement in a graduate programme in a relevant field such as environmental science, ecology, biology, geography, geology, or a related discipline.
• Strong academic performance
• Demonstrated interest in mountain ecosystems, conservation, and environmental sustainability, as evidenced by coursework, research experience, or extracurricular activities.
• Prior experience in fieldwork, research, or outdoor activities related to ecology, environmental science, or natural resource management are a plus.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Physical fitness and willingness to participate in outdoor activities and field expeditions in mountainous terrain, sometimes under challenging conditions.
• Interest in working in different cultural environments
• Language skills. Ability to work in English. Other languages are an asset.
• Depending on the specific requirements of the programme, proficiency in relevant technical skills such as GIS (Geographic Information Systems), data analysis, or laboratory techniques may be an asset.
• Availability to commit to the duration of the internship programme, which may include pre-orientation courses.
• A passion for environmental stewardship and a commitment to contributing positively to mountain conservation efforts within biosphere reserves.
• Proof of health insurance

We offer:
The entire internship programme foresees a total remuneration of 3,000 EUR, directly awarded by UNESCO to the intern at the beginning of the internship. The payment will consist of 2,700 EUR in advance and 300 EUR upon submission of the final internship report. In addition, the Center of Global Mountain Safeguard Research contributes with a lunch card for daily meals for the intern while working in the Bolzano office. Please be informed that accommodation and transportation are on the intern (both the official part under Eurac Research’s supervision, and the informal part in collaboration with a biosphere reserve).
Eurac Research offers a dynamic, interdisciplinary, and international work environment. Interns will have the opportunity to engage with researchers across various institutes, benefit from a vibrant social and academic life, and enjoy the unique setting of Bolzano with easy access to mountain sports and outdoor recreation.
How to apply:
Interested candidates should submit their application by June 13th 2025, providing their Curriculum Vitae and a motivational letter mentioning their personal interests in relation to working with mountain biosphere reserves, and specifying already existing contacts and activities in collaboration with mountain biosphere reserves, if any.
Company: Eurac Research
Location: Bozen/Bolzano
Contact person: Stefan Schneiderbauer
Phone number: +39 0471 055 055
E-mail address: glomos@eurac.edu

• Conducting research on one or more of the following research topics, closely linked to real-world sustainability challenges in mountain areas, in close collaboration with the researchers of the Center for Global Mountain Safeguard Research and a designated mountain biosphere reserve:
• Human-nature linkages
• Climate change-related impacts
• Disaster risk management
• Innovative solutions to mountain challenge