SCOM8004 Science Communication Fieldwork Placement

In this course, students undertake a one year fieldwork placement at one of of Australia’s leading science engagement organisations.

Read more about each of the placement opportunities below.

Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary

Work on the front line of conservation and environmental communication at Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary – an experimental sanctuary combining species reintroduction, habitat rejuvenation, innovative community engagement, and… bettongs! In-depth placements based at the Mulligans’ visitors centre Wildbark give you opportunities to develop new initiatives, run programs with schools and the community, engage with local Aboriginal custodians, conduct program and audience research, and operate and develop programming for the Wildbark Visitors Centre.

Australian National Botanic Gardens

Inspire and connect people to Australia’s plants, ecosystems and conservation stories at the Australian National Botanic Gardens. The Gardens grow the world’s most diverse collection of Australian native plants providing an inspirational place for research, conservation, learning, quiet contemplation and recreation. The National Seed Bank is also located onsite and helps safeguard Australia's unique flora for generations to come.
Over 500,000 people visit annually enjoying education programs, public programs, community engagement and events. This placement gives students authentic, real-world opportunities to evaluate and run programs, develop new initiatives, engage with diverse audiences and communicate science, conservation and research projects. Due to Australian Public Service requirements this placement is open to Australian Citizens only.
In 2027 the Gardens will be implementing the new Living Collection Strategy, developing a new ANBG Engagement and Interpretation Strategy and working towards opening the Ian Potter National Conservatory, which will be a showcase for tropical Australian native flora from the far north and islands, including rare and threatened species.

Mount Stromlo Observatory (ANU)

Placements at Mt Stromlo allow you to develop astronomy, astrophysics, and space communication skills while engaging with schools, tourists, researchers, and the Canberra community. Work in a team running telescope viewing nights, online programming, Dark Sky Initiatives, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Astronomy, and special events like setting the Guinness World Record for stargazing. You might help develop exhibits in the Visitor Centre or conduct research to improve programming and better understand the observatory’s diverse audiences.

Please also check the course description on Programs and Courses for enrolment eligibility.