Please send applications to:
Ed Weber
webere3@wwu.edu
Graduate/Internship Program Specialist
Huxley College of the Environment, MS9079
Western Washington University, ES 545
OFFICE: (360) 650-3646
FAX: (360) 650-2842
https://huxley.wwu.edu/graduate-programs
Title: Tracking transport of cold stunned turtles with drifters
Location: Falmouth, MA
Description: The project involves working with academic colleagues at URI and Mass Audubon in Wellfleet to design, build, and deploy various types of drifters in Cape Cod Bay as well as processing, visualizing, and archiving the data.
Required/Desired Skills: Candidate must simply have good organizational skills, be comfortable working with a computer, and willing to learn, if necessary, basic skills in googledocs, LINUX, and PYTHON.
Supervisor’s Name: Jim Manning
Number of Slots Available: 2
Free Housing? No
International Students? No
Title: Whale Watching in Stellwagen Bank
Location: Boston, Gloucester or Provincetown, MA
Description: The student would be responsible for going on at least 4-5 wildlife cruises weekly in the Boston or Provincetown Region. The student would collect data from respondents on wildlife viewing vessels, enter the data into a database, and help to develop materials to communicate results to the general public and Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary Staff
Required/Desired Skills: outgoing, basic statistics, creative, communication skills, friendly, organized, graduate or undergraduate
Supervisor’s Name: Danielle Schwarzmann
Number of Slots Available: 2
Free Housing? No
International Students? Yes
Title: From data to insights: Utilizing exploratory geophysical and bio-geographical data to better understand our largely unknown ocean
Location: Silver Spring, MD
Description: NOAA’s Office of Ocean Exploration and Research (OER) is the only federal organization dedicated to exploring the ocean for the purpose of discovery and the advancement of knowledge. OER uses a number of tools to complete this mission, including NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer – the only U.S. federal vessel dedicated to exploring our largely unknown ocean. From mapping and characterizing previously unseen seafloor to collecting and disseminating information about ocean depths, OER missions helps to establish a foundation of information and to fill data gaps. Each Expedition generates terabytes of data that include include seafloor bathymetry and video imagery. The interpretation of these vast amount of data is challenging. This internship project will focus on developing methods and techniques to produce summary products from these and ancillary data sets. Specific objectives of this internship may include:
1) Familiarization with OER oceanographic data collection tools, methods, data archives. These data sets cover a wide variety of oceanographic data including geophysical data collected by state of art multibeam/single beam sonars, video and imagery data, and associated annotations from a 6000 m rated remote operated vehicle (ROV) and oceanographic sensors;
2) Develop a GUI/database application to efficiently/automatically summarize data collected during exploration expeditions;
3) Develop and refine the process for video analysis specifically exploring machine learning methods to generate annotations and assess human generation annotation for their quality and accuracy; and
4) Develop a standard set of “uses”/ metrics that can be automated and included as part of cruise reports /dive summaries as a way to provide a preliminary characterization of sites visited.
Student would be given the opportunity to participate in an expedition (most likely from shore using telepresence technology) to inform their project.
Required/Desired Skills: This opportunity is designed for a motivated graduate or undergraduate student interested in broadening their experience with state of art oceanographic tools and data. Desired skills include data visualization, familiarization with oceanographic data, basic statistics, either database application or computer programming experience. Curiosity and excitement to learn more about our largely unknown ocean is required!
Supervisor’s Name: Kasey Cantwell
Number of Slots Available: 1
Free Housing? No
International Students? No
Title: Re-immersion time for reduction of Vibrio parahaemolyticus and Vibrio vulnificus to ambient concentrations in Eastern Oysters
Location: Oxford, MD
Description: Vibrio spp. are naturally occurring, heterotrophic bacteria found world- wide in coastal waters. Some species, however, are pathogenic to humans leading to illness ranging from self- limiting gastroenteritis to mortality. The association of Vibrio with consumption of raw shellfish (particularly oysters) has led to intensive state management to mitigate risk, and represents a significant burden to the growing US shellfish aquaculture industry.
Management of Vibrio risk is administered nationally by the Interstate Shellfish Sanitation Conference with membership consisting of the USFDA, NOAA, EPA, State shellfish managers, and industry. In a recent proposal passed by the general assembly of the ISSC, pre-harvest culture practices, such as dry storage of cages to reduce fouling, was recognized to have the potential to elevate Vibrio levels. A 14 day re-immersion period has been suggested as adequate, however, there have been no studies conducted that are specific to the conditions present in Maryland waters that address the Vibrio levels immediately following dry storage activities, or how long it may take to return to background levels. In Maryland, the main industry practice that is affected by this change in the NSSP Model Ordinance is dry storage or desiccation of gear to reduce fouling. Typically, gear and product are removed from the water for up to 24 hours and exposed to ambient air and sun in order to dry fouling organisms and allow for increased water flow once returned to the water. At this time, there is no data specific to Maryland waters that show the actual risk and the time frame that could be used as a control measure.
To address this concern, Maryland Department of the Environment, Maryland Department of Health, NOAA/NOS/NCCOS Oxford Lab, and the University of Maryland have initiated ISSC sponsored research to determine: 1) the length of time required to return Vibrio concentrations to background after 24 hour air exposure; and 2) whether salinity, site, or temperature influences depuration rates. The information gained in this study will be directly applied to Maryland Vibrio management policy.
The student selected will receive comprehensive NOAA training in basic Laboratory safety plus BSL2 specific guidance prior to commencement of field or laboratory work. During their tenure, they will learn a variety of current microbiology and molecular techniques and have exposure to the activities of our State partners and other ongoing NOAA research at our facility. We expect the student to leave with a better understanding of the drivers of NOAA research, enhanced laboratory skills, knowledge of Vibrio ecology and management, and how research is used to enact policy decisions.
The student’s role will largely be in assisting the team daily in all aspects of the project from planning to preparation of results. Ideally, the student would use the project as part of their formal degree requirements (i.e.; chapter for dissertation, senior thesis). Minor adaptions to the protocol for examining additional questions are also possible. At a minimum, the student will be expected to present findings orally as part of COL’s Lunchtime Seminar Series.
Required/Desired Skills: Graduate or advanced undergraduate
Basic laboratory skills (Pipetting, following protocols, etc.)
Molecular and microbiology experience helpful
Willingness to work in field environments
Attention to detail, record keeping
Competence with basic spreadsheets/software
Supervisor’s Name: John M. Jacobs
Number of Slots Available: 1
Free Housing? No
International Students? Yes
Notes: The purpose of this internship is to provide a unique training opportunity for a student interested in a career in environmental science or public health. The exposure to the workings of various state agencies collaborating on an issue directly affecting a policy decision is invaluable.
Title: Assessing Trends in Sea Turtle Nesting, Stranding, and Capture Data for use in Endangered Species Act Section 7 Consultations in the NOAA Fisheries Southeast Region
Location: St. Petersburg, Florida
Description: The intern will work closely with Section 7 biologists in the Protected Resources Division Interagency Cooperation and Sea Turtle and Fisheries Coordination branches at the NOAA Fisheries Southeast Regional Office. The intern will use Microsoft Excel to discern nesting, stranding, and capture trends in the SEFSC Sea Turtle Standing and Salvage Network database. These trends will be used to inform future ESA Section 7 consultations in the NOAA Fisheries Southeast Region, particularly when assessing potential take in biological opinions.
Required/Desired Skills: Microsoft Excel, Working with large datasets, GIS experience, Basic descriptive statistics
Supervisor’s Name: Dana Bethea
Number of Slots Available: 1
Free Housing? No
International Students? Yes
Title: Managing Protected Marine Species in Hawaii
Location: Honolulu, HI
Description: Depending on the skill set and interest of the candidate, they may work on a 5-year review of a species listed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), a status review or proposed rule for a species being considered for listing under the ESA, or a recovery plan for a listed species. In addition to their main project, we would ensure that they are exposed to other issues in marine species science and management and, if desired, participate in limited field work.
Required/Desired Skills: This is more suited to a graduate student, although a mature, upperclass undergraduate may be acceptable. Duties will require strong writing skills, the ability to effectively coordinate with others within the office and outside (Federal agencies, State and local governments, potentially the public); and the ability to conduct scientific literature reviews and translate scientific findings into management actions/needs.
Supervisor’s Name: Susan Pultz
Number of Slots Available: 1
Free Housing? No
International Students? No
Notes: The position is with the Pacific Islands Regional Office, National Marine Fisheries Service, Protected Resources Division. We’re located in a renovated hangar on a very scenic naval base (Ford Island) in Pearl Harbor. The weather is beautiful, the people are smart and fun, and the issues always interesting.
Title: Evaluating 10 years of Teachers Getting Muddy in an Estuary
Location: Waquoit, Massachusetts
Description: The intern will work with the Reserve Education Coordinator to plan, prepare for, teach, and evaluate the Teachers on the Estuary (TOTE)course the last week in June, 2019 entitled “Teachers on the Estuary and the Wampanoag Circle of Life” in collaboration with the Mashpee Wampanoag tribe Indian Education Department. They will also gather data to document any impacts of the TOTE program since its inception at Waquoit Bay Reserve in 2009, analyze data, and write a summary report. As part of the 10 year anniversary, they will help organize a ten-year reunion event for past TOTE teachers that includes a sail on a Sea Education Association vessel.
TOTE is a National Estuarine Research Reserve System program that offers field-based teacher professional development at the Research Reserves in support of watershed and estuarine education. All TOTE programs incorporate common elements such as general estuarine and watershed information and training on NOAA/NERRS national education initiatives. For more information on the TOTE program, check https://coast.noaa.gov/estuaries/teachers-on-the-estuary/
or www.waquoitbayreserve.org. This particular TOTE workshop will be targeted at teachers of grades 3-5. It takes a multi-disciplinary approach, coining the acronym STREAMSS (Science Technology, Reading, Engineering, Art, Mathematics, and Social Studies). Most of the past TOTE workshops, which will be included in the impacts project, focused on middle and high school teachers.
The successful applicant may take part in other summer activities at the Reserve including environmental education programs, special events and field research as well as events sponsored by the Wampanoag tribe, as time permits.
As a result of this experience the intern will learn about coastal ecology, and current watershed issues in the NERRS (National Estuarine Research Reserve System). They will learn about and experience Wampanoag culture and history and the long standing connections to estuaries that local members of the tribe have. The intern will meet researchers, and STEM educators in a variety of fields, and learn about different career paths in coastal science and education. The intern will gain experience gathering, analyzing, and communicating about data.
As time and intern interest permits, intern will gain experience in other coastal education and field research techniques.
We may be able provide housing in the Reserve’s dorm if needed. Please inquire when applying.
Required/Desired Skills:
- Suitable for graduate or undergraduate students
2. Working knowledge of estuaries and watersheds and the NGSS science and engineering standards
3. Experience teaching about watersheds and estuaries to a variety of age groups in classroom and outdoor settings
4. Comfortable with use of social media, computer graphic design, use of spreadsheets, and accessing on-line data
5. Excellent verbal and written communication skills
6. Degree or working towards degree in education and/or science preferred
Supervisor’s Name: Joan Muller
Number of Slots Available: 1
Free Housing? Yes
International Students? No
Title: Science Communication
Location: Silver Spring, MD
Description: Seeking a highly creative data visualization designer/developer STUDENT INTERN who is already knowledgeable in website design, has great graphic design skills and is looking to enhance their skill set and stretch their web design/development creativity level through hands-on practical experience that will be applied to communicate scientific content to non-technical public audiences.
Required/Desired Skills: Seeking a motivated self-starter with an interest in science communication or environmental education is essential. Desired: experience in website design and/or graphic design with an interest or background in natural resources, environmental science or education; experience working with video and photo editing software; experience leading or assisting with science education programs. Knowledge of best practices for communication and learning.
Supervisor’s Name: Ayeisha Brinson
Number of Slots Available: 1
Free Housing? No
International Students? No
Title: Understanding NOAA’s Benefit to Society
Location: Silver Spring, MD
Description: NOAA”s responsibilities range from weather and climate forecasting to ensuring the sound management of the nation’s coastal and ocean resources. In fulfilling its mission, the agency’s programs create economic value. The person working on this project would collaborate with the Office of the Chief Economist and NOAA’s line offices to better understand NOAA’s benefit to society. Activities would include developing a system for reporting the economic impact of NOAA products and services; developing strategies to identify and understand NOAA’s customers and their needs to ensure effective product delivery.
Required/Desired Skills: “Seeking a motivated self-starter with an interest in social sciences related to weather, climate or ocean conservation. Introductory course in economics. -Fluency with Microsoft Word, Excel and Powerpoint.
-Excellent writing and copyediting skills.
-Strong work ethic; attention to detail and good organizational skills; ability to prioritize and meet deadlines.
-Creativity and adaptability.
-Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.”
Supervisor’s Name: Ayeisha Brinson
Number of Slots Available: 1
Free Housing? No
International Students? No
Title: Finding Physiological Features for Fisheries Models
Location: Woods Hole, MA
Description: The Ecosystem Dynamics and Assessment Branch (EDAB) at the Northeast Fisheries Science Center (NEFSC) is looking for a summer intern to work closely the branch to aid in the extension of a multispecies model (HYDRA). HYDRA is a length-based multispecies, multi-fleet model focused on Georges Bank, based on the concept of place-based management, a defining requirement for ecosystem based fisheries management (EBFM). Currently the model simulates the growth, reproduction, interaction, and harvesting of ten species. These species account for approximately 90 percent of landings of all fish species on Georges Bank over the period 1977-2014. EDAB’s intent is to extend the model to include three additional species (pollock, red hake, and white hake).
A successful applicant will be tasked with gathering information for the additional species mentioned above. Specifically, for each species, the applicant will be tasked to find:
* The maximum length a fish can grow
* The species distribution/range
* Length at age data/information
* Length and weight data/information
* Stomach content data/information
* Determine predators and prey
* Determine the types of fishing gear used to catch the species
If time permits, and the applicant has programming skills, there will be opportunities for the applicant to fit simple models to the data collected (for example von Bertalanffy growth equations). The applicant will be expected to locate and read pertinent scientific literature and fisheries management plans. In addition the applicant may be required to interact with other fisheries scientists.
The applicant should be comfortable working alone and/or in a group setting.
Required/Desired Skills: Undergraduate
Supervisor’s Name: Scott Large
Number of Slots Available: 1
Free Housing? No
International Students? No
Title: Comparative Morphology and anatomy of the new world rhimopterid rays
Location: Pascagoula, MS
Description: Comparative morphology and anatomy of the new world rhinopterid rays
The extant rhinopterid (cownose) rays are a morphologically conservative group. Species within this family resemble each other so closely as to be practically indistinguishable. There are currently two valid species of Rhinoptera in the western Atlantic Ocean and one in the eastern Pacific. However, recent studies have suggested the presence of at least a single new species in the eastern Pacific as well as a possible third species in the western Atlantic. This project will continue ongoing investigations into the comparative morphology and anatomy of cownose rays inhabiting the waters off of North and South America and is part of a larger taxonomic revision of the Rhinoptera genus incorporating these and associated genetic and biogeographic data.
Required/Desired Skills: This internship is suitable for either undergraduates or graduates.
Supervisor’s Name: Andre DeBose
Number of Slots Available: 1
Free Housing? No
International Students? Yes
Title: Sea Turtle Ecology Science Communication
Location: Woods Hole, MA
Description: Our Turtle Ecology team would like to work with a detail-oriented, self-motivated student who has a passion for bringing marine science into the public realm. Our collaborative group of federal, state, and non-federal partners has worked together to collect samples and place satellite and camera tags on hundreds of sea turtles in the Greater Atlantic Region. We would like to increase our capacity to bring the results of this research back to the public. This could be accomplished through web-page development (possibly including highly technical GIS space-time components), collaboration with local environmental and wildlife education facilities, compilation/organization of existing data, video, and photographs into more useable formats, preparation of lesson plans for schools, development of visual displays for public places, or even by working with carcasses to preserve them for educational purposes. We can work together with the intern(s) to select a topic that matches their preferences and abilities to make a meaningful contribution to our ability to convey sea turtle science to the public.
Required/Desired Skills: Either undergraduates or graduates could be suitable, but we are looking for someone who is capable and willing to make a real contribution to our capacity for science communication.
Supervisor’s Name: Heather Haas
Number of Slots Available: 1-2
Free Housing? No
International Students? No
Title: Phytoplankton composition in the Northeast
Location: Narragansett, RI
Description: This internship is part of a larger project to test and evaluate phytoplankton remote sensing algorithms in the Northeast U.S. Continental Shelf Ecosystem. We are using in situ observations of phytoplankton and optical properties to optimize remote sensing algorithms of phytoplankton composition in the region. The intern would work with other researchers on the project to analyze phytoplankton imagery and compare the results with other environmental data. Some field and laboratory work may also be possible.
Required/Desired Skills: College level coursework in environmental science, oceanography, ecology, marine biology, basic statistics, mathematics and/or computer science
Working knowledge of spreadsheet programs required, basic computer programming skills are desirable
Motivated self-started with the ability to work independently
Interest in oceanography, ecology or marine biology
This project would be suitable for a graduate student or a highly skilled and motivated undergraduate.
Supervisor’s Name: Kimberly Hyde
Number of Slots Available: 1
Free Housing? No
International Students? No
Title: Phytoplankton composition and optics of the Northeast Shelf
Location: Narragansett, RI
Description: Phytoplankton composition is a critical component of aquatic food web structure, societally important fisheries, and human health. These internships are part of a larger project to test and evaluate phytoplankton remote sensing algorithms in the Northeast U.S. Continental Shelf Ecosystem. We are using in situ observations of phytoplankton and optical properties to optimize remote sensing algorithms of phytoplankton composition in the region. Working with other researchers, one intern would analyze phytoplankton imagery and compare the results with other environmental data. The second would aid in the analysis of optical observations to identify the spectral signatures used by satellite radiometers for discerning phytoplankton groups. Both interns will have the opportunity to aid in equipment maintenance, laboratory work, and if schedules allow, field work on a research cruise.
Required/Desired Skills: College level coursework in environmental science, oceanography, ecology, marine biology, basic statistics, mathematics and/or computer science
Some laboratory experience (could be through coursework) and an interest in ecology, oceanography or phytoplankton
Working knowledge of spreadsheet programs required and experience with computer languages and a desire to improve your coding skills through applied data analysis is ideal, but not required
Motivated self-started with the ability to work independently
This project would be suitable for a graduate student or a highly skilled and motivated undergraduate.
Supervisor’s Name: Kimberly Hyde
Number of Slots Available: 2
Free Housing? No
International Students? No
Title: Marine Debris Monitoring and Assessment Project
Location: Oakland, CA
Description: Note: This opportunity is for graduate students only.
The Marine Debris Monitoring and Assessment Project (MDMAP) is the NOAA Marine Debris Program’s flagship citizen science initiative, which engages volunteers in conducting shoreline marine debris surveys at self-selected sites around the nation. Two NOAA National Marine Sanctuaries participated in the MDMAP for 5+ years, each providing a nice temporal data set of shoreline marine debris monitoring data. We have 5-year reports from the Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary (OCNMS) and the Greater Farallones National Marine Sanctuary (GFNMS) that we would like to combine and publish. We are seeking a Graduate student intern to take the lead on data analysis and drafting a manuscript to submit to a peer-reviewed journal.
Opportunities and Expected Outcomes:
– Author on a peer-reviewed publication based on analysis of two 5-year marine debris monitoring data sets
– Hone and improve data analysis skills.
– Opportunity to get in the field and participate in marine debris monitoring surveys.
– The student will learn about managing a citizen science effort, and how best to message results and project outcomes to participants.
– Potential public speaking engagements.
– Networking with MDMAP partner organizations.
– Exposure and familiarity with working with multiple NOAA offices.
Guidance and Supervision: The graduate student will work closely with the the MDP Chief Scientist and Marine Debris Monitoring and Assessment Project leads. The student will participate in MDP staff meetings and have an opportunity to learn about other MDP initiatives and efforts.
Required/Desired Skills: This opportunity is for graduate students only.
Familiarity with Excel and R or other stats software (e.g. SAS)
Statistical analysis, specifically trend analysis
GIS skills are a plus, but not required
Supervisor’s Name: Sherry Lippiatt
Number of Slots Available: 1
Free Housing? No
International Students? No
Title: Experimental Quantification of Life History and Ecological Processes Critical to Fish Populations
Location: Highlands, NJ
Description: This project uses experimental methods to quantify the effects of environmental factors on success of early life-stages of marine fishes. Each year we are involved in new experimental studies that help fisheries scientists better understand and model processes important to fish population dynamics. Our primary focus is on processes that occur during the early life (eggs to young juveniles) of marine fishes simply because the vast majority of deaths and perhaps most natural selection occur at those ages. We employ a broad definition of ‘environmental factors’ to include physical variables (e.g., temperature, salinity), biotic variables (e.g., feeding regimes, predation risk), as well as genetic and non-genetic parental influences (e.g., maternal investment in egg size, parental care). We also quantify ‘success’ broadly to include rates of survival, growth, development, and metabolism; condition; and behavior of young fish. The typical protocol would entail the spawning of fish, implementation and application of treatment(s) (i.e., environmental factors) to embryos, larvae, and / or juveniles, and then identifying / developing metrics that are appropriate outcomes to measure in the context of study. We recently used two different species of flatfish to address questions concerning i) thermal effects on morphometric variation of larvae during ontogeny and ii) maternal influences on offspring quality. This project typically takes advantage of the synergism provided by concurrent activities in our research group that also use the same species. Candidate species for 2019 include summer flounder, winter flounder, Atlantic silverside, Atlantic killifish, and horseshoe crab. Response metrics of special interest this year are growth, development, metabolic and consumption rates, behavioral responses, and predation risk.
Required/Desired Skills: This project opportunity is for undergraduates. As part of our research team, your duties and responsibilities will include:
1) Schedule permitting, participate in lab-wide open house for public (May 19, 2019) at which the student will join the group in providing oral summaries to public about the group’s research and the student’s expected role in lab research.
2) Participate in weekly internship discussions on topics pertinent to independent and collaborative research, graduate school, presentation and professional skills, networking, and careers in science among others.
3) Acquire spawning fish and/or fertilized fish eggs.
4) Implement and maintain laboratory experiments on the effects of environmental factors (e.g., thermal, dissolve oxygen, CO2, and/or contaminants variations) on early life features of experimental fish including their growth, development, and survival.
5) Collect, reduce, and summarize data on fish embryos, larvae, and juveniles from direct observations, digital images, and video tracking.
6) Analyze data, prepare presentation material, and present a summary of project in July to staff.
7) Support role in ongoing laboratory experiments and analyses. The student will work among other undergraduate and graduate students, research associates, and NOAA scientists.
Skills required:
Applicant attributes given preference in decision to offer hosting for summer at my lab:
1) Majoring in biological, marine, or environmental fields; primary interest in ecology, evolution, life history, ecotoxicology, and/or quantitative methods.
2) Prior research experience in any scientific discipline.
3) On academic trajectory that very likely includes graduate school for M.Sc. and/or Ph.D.
4) Willingness to work in the laboratory with some field collections of adults, prey, etc., all potentially requiring some irregularity in work schedule (e.g., early morning, late evening, and weekends as project dictates).
5) Strong work ethic, detail oriented, organized, completes assignments in a timely manner, works well individually and as a member of a team, communicates clearly.
6) Computer literacy – MS Office applications; image analysis software (training provided), experience with statistical programs encouraged but not required.
Supervisor’s Name: R. Christopher Chambers
Number of Slots Available: 1
Free Housing? No
International Students? No
Note: Most of our summer interns secure housing at nearby Monmouth University which has single or double occupancy on- and off-campus / beach-front housing in apartments or dorms. We expect three to five interns to be with my research group during summer of 2019. Rental house sharing has also been used by past interns. We will connect you with other interns so that you can make arrangements. Transportation to/from worksite is not provided. Personal auto is not a requirement. Ride sharing is typically available.
Title: Analysis of Ocean Acidification and Co-stressor Effects on Fish Early-life Processes
Location: Highlands, NJ
Description: This project evaluates the potential effects of ocean acidification and other environmental co-stressors on fish populations. The effects on fish of an increased level of ocean acidification –another consequence of C02 emissions – are largely unknown and represent a new and exciting research front. We are using a combination of field, laboratory, and experimental data to address this topic with respect to resource fish species of the northeastern USA. The student will be directly involved in laboratory experiments that address components of this larger research effort. Among other activities in 2019, we will be conducting experiments on the direct and interactive effects of C02 (acidity), dissolved oxygen (DO), and thermal regimes on embryos and larvae of fish or shellfish, and assessing the adaptive potential of the fish species to these stressors. Candidate species for 2019 include summer flounder, winter flounder, Atlantic silverside, Atlantic killifish, and horseshoe crab. Response metrics of special interest this year are growth, development, metabolic and consumption rates, behavioral responses, and predation risk.
Required/Desired Skills: This project opportunity is for undergraduates. As part of our research team, your duties and responsibilities will include:
1) Schedule permitting, participate in lab-wide open house for public (May 19, 2019) at which the student will join the group in providing oral summaries to public about the group’s research and the student’s expected role in lab research.
2) Participate in weekly internship discussions on topics pertinent to independent and collaborative research, graduate school, presentation and professional skills, networking, and careers in science among others.
3) Acquire spawning fish and/or fertilized fish eggs.
4) Implement and maintain laboratory experiments on the effects of CO2, DO, and/or thermal variations on early life features of experimental fish including their growth, development, and survival.
5) Collect, reduce, and summarize data on fish embryos, larvae, and juveniles from direct observations, digital images, and video tracking.
6) Analyze data, prepare presentation material, and present a summary of project in July to staff.
7) Support role in ongoing laboratory experiments and analyses. The student will work among other undergraduate and graduate students, research associates, and NOAA scientists.
Skills required:
Applicant attributes given preference in decision to offer hosting for summer at my lab:
1) Majoring in biological, marine, or environmental fields; primary interest in ecology, evolution, life history, ecotoxicology, and/or quantitative methods.
2) Prior research experience in any scientific discipline.
3) On academic trajectory that very likely includes graduate school for M.Sc. and/or Ph.D.
4) Willingness to work in the laboratory with some field collections of adults, prey, etc., all potentially requiring some irregularity in work schedule (e.g., early morning, late evening, and weekends as project dictates).
5) Strong work ethic, detail oriented, organized, completes assignments in a timely manner, works well individually and as a member of a team, communicates clearly.
6) Computer literacy – MS Office applications; image analysis software (training provided), experience with statistical programs encouraged but not required.
Supervisor’s Name: R. Christopher Chambers
Number of Slots Available: 1
Free Housing? No
International Students? No
Notes: Most of our summer interns secure housing at nearby Monmouth University which has single or double occupancy on- and off-campus / beach-front housing in apartments or dorms. We expect three to five interns to be with my research group during summer of 2019. Rental house sharing has also been used by past interns. We will connect you with other interns so that you can make arrangements. Transportation to/from worksite is not provided. Personal auto is not a requirement. Ride sharing is typically available.