Prácticas remuneradas en ciencias del mar (USA)

The Shaw Institute (formerly the Marine & Environmental Research Institute, MERI) is looking to fill two Marine Research Internship positions for the 2019 field season. These are full-time positions requiring a 6-month commitment from June through November (start date TBD).

The Shaw Institute is a 501(C)3 nonprofit scientific research organization based in Maine and New York City. Founded in 1990 by Dr. Susan Shaw (as the Marine & Environmental Research Institute), the Shaw Institute’s mission is to discover and expose environmental health threats through innovative science and engage in strategic partnerships to improve human and ecological health. Over three decades, the Institute’s pioneering research on ocean pollution, sentinel species, flame retardants, plastics, and climate change has fueled public policy nationally and internationally. To learn more about our work, visit www.shawinstitute.org.

The Blue Hill Research Center is located on the Blue Hill Peninsula in a unique coastal ecosystem bridging mid-coast and “Downeast” Maine. A habitat for bald eagles, harbor seals, porpoises, and a rich variety of marine and terrestrial wildlife, the landscape is dotted with small fishing villages, wooden boatyards, and blueberry fields. Interns will spend the season studying the impacts of development, global warming, and pollution on this pristine ecosystem.

This internship is an excellent opportunity for an individual working towards a career in marine biology, ecotoxicology, coastal ecology, environmental conservation, or a related field to gain practical experience in the field and in the laboratory. The ideal candidate will possess a personal interest in environmental research and a commitment to the mission of the organization.

Job Description

The Marine Research Interns will assist the Shaw Institute Research Department with the implementation of its marine research. Large-scale projects investigating the abundance and impacts of microplastics in the marine environment and a study of bacterial loads at local swimming beaches and their link to gastrointestinal illness will be the top priorities of this internship. Interns will be responsible for either the Microplastics or Bacteria project, but both interns will work together to complete both projects. Other duties may include monitoring for early identification of harmful algal blooms, tracking ocean warming and acidification, and assisting with response to marine mammal strandings (whales and harbor seals) in the Downeast region. Primary responsibilities will include field sampling from land and boat, laboratory analyses, archiving of samples, data entry and management, and producing written reports and presentations.

Specific Duties
Conduct water and tissue sample collection both from shore and the Shaw research vessel at sites in the greater Blue Hill Bay
Safely operate and maintain all field and lab equipment including a multiparameter YSI EXO2 Datasonde
Assist with marine mammal stranding response as-needed, including on-site tissue collection and necropsies in the Shaw laboratory
Perform laboratory assays following established standard operating procedures and protocols including the occasional processing and archiving of marine mammal tissues
Assist with data entry and updating of laboratory records, logs, and inventories
Manage and analyze large water quality and multi-variable data sets
Prepare summaries, reports, fact sheets, and assist with community outreach
Conduct literature searches, develop background information, and communicate and promote the Shaw Institute’s research and mission to the public
Give a final presentation to staff and members of the community on your research at the end of your internship
Assist with in-house events including the environmental lecture series and other duties relating to the organization's goals and mission as required

Reports to: Marine Research Coordinator

Qualifications:

Applicants should possess a BA or BS degree in marine biology, ecotoxicology, coastal ecology, environmental conservation, or a related major. Some field and laboratory experience and a basic knowledge of statistics and database management are required. Familiarity with environmental sampling and monitoring methods is preferred. Applicants must be able to work outside in a variety of environmental conditions, be willing to get dirty, muddy, and wet, be hands-on with a variety of organisms, be comfortable working on a marine research vessel, and be available to work occasional nights and weekends as needed. Attention to detail and the ability to work independently and as a team are a must.

Knowledge of computer software including Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel required. Proficiency in graphics, ArcGIS, and statistical software (STATA) is desirable. Applicant must possess a valid driver’s license and a good driving record. Only US citizens or lawful permanent residents should apply. Position requires some physical activity and applicant should be able to lift up to 40 lbs.

Time Requirements:

June - November (start date TBD) 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 the Institute. Interns are responsible for all travel expenses and food.

HOW TO APPLY

Deadline to Apply is March 15, 2019

If you are interested in applying for this position, please submit a cover letter outlining your experience, career objectives, and which research project you are most interested in conducting at the Shaw Institute (Microplastics or Bacteria) along with your Resume/CV and contact information for three references to:

Madelyn Woods, Marine Research Coordinator, at mwoods@shawinstitute.org

Indicate “Marine Research Internship, NAME” in the subject line of your email.

Please, no phone calls.