The Royal Institution is looking for a PhD student to join The Public Programme for a three-month internship to gain experience in science engagement and outreach. This internship will run concurrently from June to September 2023, for exact dates please see attached job descriptions.
The Public Programme
The Royal Institution’s (Ri) public programme is one of the longest-serving science engagement programmes in the world. It provides an intellectually stimulating array of opportunities for individuals to engage with science, explore the latest scientific advancements, and deepen their understanding of the world around them. From boundary-pushing creative engagement activities to viral lectures, and workshops presented by esteemed scientists, Nobel Prize winners, global leaders and more, the Ri prides itself on creating an inclusive space where all individuals, regardless of background or age, can participate in intellectual exchange and expand their knowledge of scientific research and ideas.
The public programme is a remarkable resource for those with a passion for science, seeking to learn and engage in intellectual discourse.
Beyond The Milky Way Virtual Reality Experience
If you are a PhD student interested in science education and communication and want to be part of a team that engages the public with science creatively and innovatively, we are offering a 3-month full-time internship to work on The Beyond The Milky Way Virtual Reality Experience, narrated by Professor Brian Cox.
The role of the Public Programmes Intern
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- Develop an understanding of the VR experience project plan and timeline, and assist in the project timelines and budgets, ensuring that all deliverables are completed on time and within budget.
- Manage the VR experience daily, including setting up and troubleshooting equipment, and provide feedback to improve the experience.
- Work with the marketing team to promote the experience to the public and coordinate ticket sales.
- Assist with on-site management during the event, including overseeing volunteers and logistics.
- Collaborate with wider Ri teams to collect and analyse user engagement and satisfaction data.
- Design self-guided tours of the building, create content for science lectures and produce short science videos for YouTube and TikTok.
- Work with the production team to ensure the VR experience is accessible and inclusive for all audiences.
Who are we looking for?
We are looking for flexible and enthusiastic applicants keen to learn new skills. You don’t need any prior experience in science communication or working with virtual reality just an interest in science education and educational outreach work.
Practicalities
This is a three-month placement based at the Royal Institution offices in Mayfair and the intern will be supervised by the Senior Science Content Producer for Public Programmes.
This opportunity is only open to PhD students who are eligible to undertake an internship as part of their studentship and receive a stipend from their Doctoral Training Programme (DTP). Please check with your university/DTP to ensure funding is available before applying for this internship.
You will need to obtain the grant holder’s written permission to undertake the placement, outlining any funding arrangements, before a position can be offered – Please contact Catherine Liddle for this.
To apply, please send your CV and a supporting statement, no longer than 500 words, to recruitment@ri.ac.uk, explaining why you are interested in this internship and how you meet the criteria set out in the job description.
The closing date for applications is: 9 am Tuesday 23 May 2023. Interviews week commencing 29 May 2023.
As the position involves working with young people, the post holder will be required to undergo an Enhanced DBS clearance and related checks as mandated by UK laws and regulations.