Volunteer

  • Jamie Smith works with Biodiversitree volunteer
  • Jane Holly volunteers as an education program leader
  • Citizen scientists collecting stream data
  • Citizen scientists collecting plant data
  • Archaeology citizen scientists dig in agricultural field site
  • Education Program Leader teaching middle school students
  • Citizen scientists measuring plants at GCREW site
  • Archaeology citizen scientists dig near Homestead House
  • Dr. John Parker poses with Biodiversitree volunteers
  • Dr. Jess Parker teaching citizen scientists volunteer how to measure tree circumference

Volunteer with SERC!

The Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC) couldn't carry out its mission without volunteers. Volunteering allows people of all ages and backgrounds to inspire and engage people and it's a wonderful opportunity to develop skills, explore another career, enhance personal growth, connect with others, strengthen communities, improve lives, and have a meaningful impact in today's world.

Explore our opportunities in more detail below and discover which program is right for you!

Environmental Education Programs

A SERC volunteer teaching a small group of students about oysters

Share your enthusiasm for nature and the Bay!

  • Help with hands-on programs and educational activities
  • Guide hikes
  • Guide canoe excursions
  • Support the Education Program team with its volunteer coordination, recruitment, training, and other administrative projects

Learn more

Participatory Science Programs

Four scientists sampling a stream

Work directly with our researchers as a volunteer scientist!

  • Study and identify marine invertebrates or parasites
  • Participate in archaeology projects
  • Work in our research laboratories

Learn more

Docent Programs

Nine adults on a trail in the forest looking up in amazement at something in the trees

Lead hiking tours and introduce SERC's exciting environmental research to the public!

  • Guide hikes along one of SERC's beautiful, waterfront trails
  • Share your love of environmental science, nature, and the outdoors with the public
  • Possible opportunities to interact with leading scientists and go behind the scenes on our research

Learn more

Want to join us?

Contact us for more information and to get involved!

Education Program Coordinator: Karen McDonald, McDonaldK@si.edu

Participatory Science Program Coordinator: Rachael Mady, MadyR@si.edu