Project # 267
Center name: Desert Botanical Garden - The Hernandez Lab
Campus/Location: Tempe
Faculty lead: Tania Hernandez
Project description
The Hernandez Lab at the Desert Botanical Garden is a collaborative team of researchers, students, interns, and volunteers dedicated to the study and conservation of desert plant biodiversity, with a particular focus on cacti and agaves, two of the plant groups under the highest threat of extinction. We integrate cutting-edge DNA sequencing and bioinformatic analyses with innovative conservation tools, an international network of collaborators, and a strong local community of committed volunteers to generate knowledge that guides the protection and long-term persistence of species. We believe plant conservation is both a scientific imperative and a shared responsibility, and our work centers on understanding genetic diversity, adaptation, and resilience in desert plants; especially in the face of climate change. Through mentorship, research, and hands-on programs such as the Saguaro Initiatives, we connect science, community, and action to safeguard desert ecosystems for future generations.
To learn more about our work, visit https://www.hernandezlab-dbg.com/
Project Location: Desert Botanical Garden and remote work
Special skills needed
Saguaros are more than symbols of the Sonoran Desert, they are living neighbors in our cities. From backyards and schoolyards to street medians and parks, thousands of saguaros live in urban landscapes. These urban saguaros tell a powerful story about how wildlife and people share space in a rapidly changing desert.
The Saguaro Initiatives at Desert Botanical Garden are a coordinated, community-driven effort to understand, protect, and secure the future of saguaros in urban environments, where climate change, extreme heat, and development are placing unprecedented stress on this iconic species.
** Saguaro Census Community Engagement Coordinator, Honors Student or Intern **
The Saguaro Census in the Phoenix Valley is a community-building, citizen-science program that brings people together to care for one of our most iconic desert plants. By encouraging residents to observe, record, and learn about saguaros in their neighborhoods, the program builds a strong network of support while raising awareness about the growing vulnerability of desert plants. Through this simple act of paying attention, participants help improve and preserve our urban landscapes and reconnect with nature—even in the heart of the city.
Requisites
- Strong interest in community engagement, conservation, or environmental education
- Excellent communication and organizational skills
- Enjoys coordinating activities, working with people, and supporting community science
- Comfortable interacting with volunteers and the public
- Availability of approximately 5–10 hours per week (with some seasonal flexibility)
- Ability to participate in a bi-weekly advisory meeting and a quarterly full-team meeting
Benefits
- Hands-on experience in community-based conservation and citizen science
- Leadership and coordination skills through managing volunteers and outreach activities
- Training in science communication and public engagement
- Mentorship from conservation scientists and staff at Desert Botanical Garden
- Networking opportunities with volunteers, students, and community partners
- Resume-building experience with a visible, high-impact conservation program
Majors
Biology, Biological Sciences (Biology and Society), Biological Sciences (Conservation Biology and Ecology), Biology (Environmental Justice), Communication, Organizational Leadership, Education, Innovation in Society, Project Management, Community Advocacy, Sustainability
Years
-2nd Year Students
-3rd Year Students
-4th Year Students- Seniors
-ASU Online Barrett Honors Students (fully remote work)
Themes
Cross-listed with the following themes:
Biological, Chemical, and Physical Sciences, Business and Entrepreneurship, Journalism, Communication, and Mass Media, Law, Justice, and Public Service, Sustainability
