Digital Media Analytics

Illinois Science Council

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Mentor 

Monica Metzler, JD
Founder & Executive Director, Illinois Science Council

Background

Illinois Science Council (“ISC”) is an independent, volunteer-driven 501c3 organization that engages, educates, and entertains the adult public about science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). ISC serves as the adult complement to the many science-outreach organizations focused on K-12 students, and the science complement to Chicago’s many arts and humanities organizations. We showcase the scientists and research of Chicago-area institutions and companies that make Chicago our nation’s true “City of Science.” We offer unique public outreach programming and promote those done by other area institutions. Together, these efforts help to raise public awareness and understanding of the extraordinary amount of science research done in this region.

Before the pandemic, ISC offered live, in-person public programs that bring scientists together with adults who want to cultivate their innate curiosity about STEM topics. Now we look to offer that same type of engaging programming online until we can be in-person again. Examples of past live programs include:

  • Brain/neuroscience programs: Your Brain on… Happiness, Creativity, Exercise, and Love, Sex and Oxytocin.
  • Chemistry programs: Chemistry of… Beer, Chocolate, Coffee, Whiskey, Honey, and more.
  • Fundraising events include Science Cocktail Party (at which neuroscience students conduct experiments).
  • ISC launched the Chicago Science Festival in 2015 to showcase area science institutions and researchers on a variety of topics.

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Internship Description

An ISC intern will participate in projects that further our program development, organizational development, and marketing/communications efforts. The intern(s) may assist with, or take the lead on, any of the following that interests them:

  • Dive into data analysis by learning how Google Analytics and Google Ads helps nonprofits do more using info on our programming or with advertising; create ways to effectively analyze our e-newsletter readership, website traffic, and social media.
  • Become an expert on LinkedIn and learn best practices for nonprofits to boost ISC’s presence and recruit board members and volunteers.
  • Learn YouTube for nonprofits to fix ISC’s presence on that site and use it to improve our brand.
  • Evaluate the Science Cocktail Party fundraiser; and assist with donor communications.
  • Research, development, promotion, execution, and evaluation of ISC public programs that take place during the quarter or explored for later in the year (or that intern comes up with!).
  • Grant research and writing for corporate and foundation funding; development of materials, assisting with individual fundraising campaigns, and donor communications.
  • Learn about WordPress websites and how to update ISC’s website content.

 

Qualifications

ISC is a small organization in fast-growth mode in the fast-growing field of science outreach. Interns must be willing to take a lot of initiative and work independently. Good communication skills, an interest in the nonprofit sector, and an entrepreneurial attitude are assets. Familiarity with Microsoft Office required. Experience with customer relationship management (CRM) databases (e.g., Hubspot, Salesforce, Airtable), WordPress websites, and/or Google products (Docs, Analytics, AdWords, YouTube for nonprofits) is

Logistical Details

ISC will reimburse for any travel required outside of public transit and will cover costs of any seminars or webinars the intern and Executive Director agree will be worthwhile. ISC operates virtually, without a fixed office space and also doesn’t have set business hours, so work can be done daytime, evenings or weekends, as long as projects are completed in a timely manner. The Executive Director and Intern will meet virtually to discuss projects.

Your application must include a current resume and a cover letter describing why this internship is relevant to your career goals.

​Still wondering whether you should apply for this internship?

  • It’s outside of academia and the ivory tower
  • Experience the entrepreneurial life and learn about the nonprofit world
  • Great introduction to the science outreach field
  • Opportunity to pick a project and run with it or learn a new skill for professional development
  • Up-close view of the science communication world

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