In October 1996 George B. Rabb stepped down after serving seven years as volunteer Chair of the IUCN Species Survival Commission (SSC). Because of his dedicated leadership and vision as Chair, SSC became a world force in conservation. He mobilized the network to explore the complex dynamics influencing the health of ecosystems and species. He integrated social, economic, and other scientific disciplines into the development of sound conservation strategies and policies. And he drew attention to the importance of lesser known creatures by building network expertise on plant, marine, and invertebrate conservation. Perhaps his greatest contribution is the ongoing encouragement, opportunity, and support he gives to young scientists and conservation professionals. Dr Rabb's mentoring role has and will continue to contribute to the new generation of conservationists so important to the future well-being of our world.
The George B. Rabb IUCN/SSC Internship honors Dr Rabb's important accomplishments on behalf of conservation. An endowment fund supports internships, to be awarded to graduate students pursuing study in the area of conservation biology or related communications. Interns work on specific SSC projects. Contributions to the Endowment fund are greatly appreciated, and a pledge form is provided here.
Location of the internship varies according to current SSC programmatic priorities. The internship is aimed at building capacity in the IUCN regional offices, and therefore the successful candidates will be those students most qualified from these regions.
The George B. Rabb IUCN/SSC Internship Endowment has been established to support the internship. The minimum goal for the endowment is US $200,000; funds exceeding this amount will support related activities (e.g., publications or meetings related to the intern's work) and/or additional internship positions.
The George B. Rabb IUCN/SSC Internship will further SSC's continuing pursuit of knowledge, enhance its role as a leader in conservation, and continue the legacy begun by its honoree during his years as SSC Chair.
The current George B. Rabb intern is Arturo Mora based in the IUCN Regional Office for South America in Quito, Ecuador. His job will be to liaise with the SSC network in South America and, in particular, promote and facilitate implementation of the Red List Programme in the region.
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