2025 Internship Project Overview

We researched spiral-horned antelope in Gorongosa National Park, Mozambique to understand how antelope movement is influenced by predation, forage quality and thermoregulation. Initially, we helped replace GPS collars and implant biologgers in 20 bushbuck (Tragelaphus sylvaticus). These devices provide high-resolution data on movement, internal temperature and heart rate, allowing researchers to track behavioral and physiological responses in real time. Following capture efforts, we spent most of the summer collecting vegetation from randomized plots throughout the park. By pairing our samples with existing nutrient data, we aimed to assess how forage quality varies across Gorongosa’s highly diverse habitats. Finally, we conducted observational surveys while driving, documenting antelope locations and whether they were in sun or shade. This data is useful for understanding how environmental conditions affect thermoregulatory behavior and habitat use, as well as allowing us to predict species density throughout the park.

 

ORGANIZATION/RESEARCH GROUP

Pringle Lab, Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Princeton University

LOCATION

Gorongosa National Park, Mozambique

 

Interns

Sam Miller ’26
Major: Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
Minor(s): Environmental Studies, Quantitative and Computational Biology
"I am extremely grateful to have been directly engaged in cutting edge ecological research. I loved my time working to understand a beautiful natural system amongst brilliant scientists. This internship reinforced my desire to pursue research and attend graduate school."
Adriana Shields ’27
Major: Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
Minor(s): Neuroscience
"This was my first experience conducting field research and I gained invaluable skills, including how to collect high-quality data in a remote, challenging environment. The opportunity to contribute to meaningful research in such a stunning landscape was deeply rewarding."

Click to view the end-of-project presentation

 

Robert Pringle
Professor of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology

Mentors

  • Henry Gage, Ph.D. Candidate, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
  • Hallie Walker Brown, Postdoctoral Research Associate, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology