AmphibiaWeb: Cataloging amphibian species, traits, and taxonomy for conservation biology
Jimmy McGuire, Professor
Museum of Vertebrate Zoology
Applications for Fall 2026 are closed for this project.
Amphibians are the world’s most imperiled vertebrate group. Confounding efforts to combat amphibian declines is that we have little knowledge concerning most of the species and much of it not easily accessible. Since 2000, we have been developing an informatics platform to create a web page for every species of the amphibians in the world (over 9000 species!) where we collate information on biology, natural history, taxonomy, biogeography, known occurrences and conservation. AmphibiaWeb is an authoritative, scientifically responsible, and up-to-date system, which is solidly based on real specimens and data that includes links to authority files (for the legal scientific names of the taxa) and many sources of information on the web. To do this, we need YOUR help.
This apprenticeship is an excellent opportunity to learn amphibian biology and conservation, contribute to a public resource where we acknowledge and credit your efforts, and communicate with the public in person and online about science. We train in all aspects of the apprenticeship. The primary duties for Fall Semester will include literature research, and learning to edit species accounts. Motivated students also may be trained in mapping and creating range maps. Limited openings are available in the Spring with prior approval; please contact us first.
Role: Apprentices work directly on a bioinformatics project in a major natural history museum that combines amphibian biology and biodiversity conservation with a worldwide user base. Students will use the scientific literature and internet research to edit species accounts and prepare material for the website. They will receive close supervision, but will be given considerable independence in producing accounts and in working on other aspects depending on interests (for example, georeferencing specimens, creating maps or new data visualizations, creating videos or other new content etc.). They will learn to be editors and writers. Student apprentices are given full credit as authors and/or editors when published to the website, a tangible product of work.
Students are expected to work at least 5-6 hours per week during the regular semester (5 hours for one credit, or 6 or more hours for two credits). Because of the amount of training required for this URAP, we seek individuals who can commit to a full academic year to this URAP. Work may be remote but spending time in the Museum of Vertebrate Zoology is encouraged and welcomed.
Day-to-day supervisor for this project: AmphibiaWeb Coordinator Ann Chang (anntchang@berkeley.edu), and Assoc. Director Michelle Koo (mkoo@berkeley.edu)
Qualifications: Qualifications: Basic computer literacy required. Strong written or graphic design skills desired. Ideal applicants have a passion for amphibians, conservation biology, or biodiversity informatics. A love for learning and motivation to improve are what really count. Preference will be given to students with some biological background or a strong passion for amphibians, natural history, and conservation; any major is welcomed. Students who can read and/or write in Spanish, Portuguese, French, German or Chinese are desired. Please visit AmphibiaWeb.org to learn more.
Hours: to be negotiated
Biological & Health Sciences Arts & Humanities