Research internships

We are often in need of qualified and motivated graduate students or upper-level undergraduates who are interested in undertaking research projects in coal-impacted regions of southern WV. We are particularly in need of students with backgrounds in geography, environmental law, geology, engineering, environmental science, environmental chemistry, biology, public health, GIS, or related fields and with a strong commitment to environmental justice. The results of student research will be valuable to Coal River Mountain Watch and other organizations in drawing connections between irresponsible mining practices and public health and safety.  Please continue reading below for an example of a recent research intership.

There is some flexibility to tailor these research positions for your academic requirements (summer research, undergraduate thesis, or master's thesis). These positions are unfunded but we are happy to work with you to help secure funding through your school.

Please email Jen Osha for more details about currently available research opportunities.

Research Intern Spotlight:  Rebekah

I spent 9 weeks interning with Coal River Mountain Watch in the summer between my junior and senior year of college. It was my first trip to Appalachia, and I really didn't know what to expect. The other volunteers and interns at the CRMW house quickly helped me settle in, and I learned so much just in the first week. As a civil engineering and computer science student, I spent most of the summer helping with technical research and data analysis - which turned out to be a great fit for me. For example, I set up a website to organize and provide access to various types of databases and documents related to mining permits, violations, and discharge monitoring reports. Aside from spending time in the office and on the computer, I also attended Tadpole Cleanup events as well as a press conference and a permit hearing with the DEP. Throughout the summer, I was able to work alongside CRMW staff and experienced what it was like to be part of a very dedicated and active environmental non-profit. My days were somewhat spontaneous as there were unexpected opportunities to visit neighbors or to travel down to Charleston for a meeting. Living in a house with seven other volunteers and interns became a wonderful experience, and I was able to meet many other environmental activists from all over the country. Overall, I had a great experience and am very glad that I was able to spend a few weeks working with CRMW and learning first hand about the impacts of mountaintop removal in Appalachia.