Volunteering at SERC

SERC is always looking for volunteers to support the work of our scientists, educators, and administrators. Volunteers at SERC help with a wide variety of activities and typically work in the research labs, assist with field work, lead outside education activities including canoe trips and hands-on science programs, help with fundraising, and organize events.
Time commitments can vary and staff is flexible to individual schedules. The age requirement for volunteering at the Smithsonian is 16 years or older.

Volunteering for Education Programs
Volunteers at the Education Department support SERC's hands-on school and public education programs that focus on SERC research and Chesapeake Bay ecology. Volunteer opportunities accommodate various interests and schedules. While some require a visit to SERC one day a week during the spring and fall, others may be done from home.

At the moment, the education department is looking for high school students and adults interested in becoming field trip assistants, canoe guides, summer camp CITs , story tellers, flyer distributors, toddler program organizers, boat captains, fundraisers, data support staff, and graphic designers, as well as individuals to help with aquarium and equipment maintenance. While we are specifically looking for individuals to fill these positions, we are always interested in meeting with you and learning about your skills and interests.

SERC provides volunteer training and continuing educational experiences. New volunteers are teamed up with experienced volunteers until they get their sea legs. For more information about volunteer opportunities at the Education Department, download the Education Department volunteer program brochure or contact Karen McDonald.

Volunteering for Science Programs
Many science programs at SERC depend on volunteers to help with a variety of tasks from assisting in laboratories with data processing to participating in field work. The best way for us to match you with your skills and interests is for you to tell us as much as you can about your skills and how you would like to contribute. Browsing the research departments described here on the web is a good way to find out what we do and what interests you.

How To Apply
The first step to becoming a volunteer is letting us know your skills and interests. Please download this pdf file which contains a letter to prospective volunteers and a volunteer application form. You can mail or fax your completed form to SERC's volunteer coordinator Karen McDonald. If you have questions or if you would like to receive a paper copy of the form, please contact Karen at mcdonaldk@si.edu (e-mail) or 443-482-2300 (phone).