organization based in Blue Hill, Maine, is recruiting to fill a
Microplastics Monitoring Internship position for the field season 2014.
This is a full-time position requiring a 6-month commitment from May
through October.
MERI is a scientific research organization dedicated to understanding the
impacts of environmental pollutants on wildlife and human health, and to
interpreting this information to a broad audience. Current projects include
a marine coastal monitoring initiative, an expanding microplastics
monitoring program (local and international), sediment pH studies and
invasive species surveys.
This is an excellent opportunity for an individual working toward a career
in coastal marine ecology, marine debris management, natural resource
sciences, or environmental policy to gain practical experience in the field
and in the lab. The ideal candidate will possess a personal interest in
marine pollution and ecosystem monitoring and a commitment to the mission
of the organization.
Primary Job Responsibility
This position will involve assisting the Research Department with the
implementation of the Blue Hill Bay Microplastics Monitoring Project.
Primary responsibilities will include water sample processing in the
laboratory, microplastic identification and counting, upholding a
contamination-free laboratory, field sampling, data entry and basic data
analysis. The candidate will possess a serious attention to detail and be
highly organized. The candidate will be responsible for properly
cataloging water samples from local volunteers, long-term research, and
international efforts (1000+ samples) and maintaining order in a high
sample volume laboratory. Additional duties may include assisting with
research outreach activities.
Job Description:
· Process incoming 1-liter water samples using a vacuum pump
filtration system
· Organize samples pre and post filtration
· Maintain microplastic excel database
· Analyze results for monitoring weekly blog
· Photograph and catalogue samples
· Collection and extraction of microplastics for polymer
characterization/analysis
· Assist with data entry, updating field logs and lab maintenance
· Time: 60 % microscope, 25% sample processing, 15% field
· Weekly compilation of microplastic media items and endnote
article update
Qualifications
Applicants should possess a BS or MS degree in marine ecology,
environmental sciences, marine biology, organic chemistry, conservation
biology or a related major. Marine field and laboratory experience are
required. Experience with following laboratory QA/QC and familiarity with
compound and dissection microscopes a must. Applicants need to be able to
work outside in a variety of environmental conditions. They must also be
comfortable working on and near the water, working alone as well as with
other research staff and general public. Must be available to work
occasional nights (meetings and lecture series), weekends, and holidays as
needed.
Knowledge of computer software including Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and
Excel is required; photography, statistics (SPSS), Microsoft Access,
EndNote, ArcGIS and graphics experience is desirable. Knowledge of plastic
legislation and marine debris is recommended. Applicant must possess a
valid driver's license and a good driving record. Only US citizens should
apply. Position requires some physical activity and applicant should be
able to lift up to 40 lbs, walk carrying fragile equipment on uneven
ground.
Reports to:
Coastal Monitoring Coordinator
Time Requirements: May - October (Flexible start) Full-time (40
hours/week); additional hours to be agreed upon by employee and Director.
Compensation: Stipend and shared housing in Blue Hill, Maine. Housing is
within walking distance to Marine Environmental Research Institute. Interns
are responsible for all travel expenses and food.
To Apply:
If you are interested in applying for this position, please state where you
found the internship posting and submit a cover letter, resume, three
references with the subject line "*Microplastics Monitoring Internship*" by
April 1st to:
Abby Barrows, Coastal Monitoring Coordinator at abarrows@meriresearch.org
Please, no phone calls.
Marine Environmental Research Institute (MERI)
PO Box 1652, 55 Main Street
Blue Hill, ME 04614
Website: *www.meriresearch.org*
MERI is an Equal Opportunity Employer
