Summer Internship Position Description

Kenneth K. Chew Center for Shellfish Research and Restoration

Puget Sound Restoration Fund (PSRF) is hosting a 10-week internship during Summer 2020 to contribute to research on basket cockles at the Kenneth K. Chew Center for Research and Restoration (Chew Center) operated by PSRF at NOAA’s Northwest Fisheries Science Center’s Manchester Research Station.

PSRF is collaborating with the Suquamish Tribe and others to explore various facets of the science and management of the traditionally significant basket cockle (Clinocardium nuttallii), including impacts to the species from climate change, its genetic population structure, development of aquaculture techniques, characterization of disease and biotoxins and options for management of the species. The intern will participate in design and execution of an independent research project at the Chew Center related to the topics above. The intern will also have the opportunity to participate in additional research, field work and hatchery-related projects at the Chew Center.

Other PSRF projects at the Chew Center involve numerous species including native Olympia oysters, pinto abalone, kelp, sea cucumbers and cockles. Our work is in service of the following broader collaborative research goals:

•Culture genetically-diverse native oysters and abalone to preserve local populations;

•Expand the ability to restore native shellfish habitat in the Pacific Northwest;

•Understand impacts of ocean acidification on shellfish and other marine life;

•Advance the technology and practices of conservation aquaculture; and

•Establish a center of excellence for shellfish research restoration & aquaculture.

Qualifications

Applicants should have a strong understanding and/or interest in marine ecology, climate change, environmental restoration and conservation, shellfish biology or a related field. Competitive applicants will be senior level undergraduate students or recent graduates with relevant research experience and/or coursework. Students and recent graduates from Native American and other underrepresented groups are particularly encouraged to apply. Applicants must be self-motivated and comfortable working independently and demonstrate willingness to contribute to community-based marine conservation. Applicants must be able to pass a federal background check to work at the Chew Center.

Schedule and Benefits

This is a 10-week internship position with a flexible start date between mid-May and early June. The intern will work primarily at the Chew Center Monday-Friday, 40 hours per week. A weekly stipend of $500 will be provided. Housing is not provided; however, we will assist the intern in securing local housing for the duration of the internship, as needed.

To apply

Please submit the following documents to Jodie Toft at jodie@restorationfund.org by February 28, 2020: 1) Resume or CV, 2) Cover letter, and 3) Names of 3 references.