In partnership with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Chesapeake Bay Office (NCBO), the Chesapeake Research Consortium offers paid, twelve-week summer internships for undergraduate students.

Marine Biologist Internship

Project Description:

The Cooperative Oxford Lab and Chesapeake Research Consortium (CRC) seek a summer intern for late May through mid-August 2024 (12 weeks) to work with National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science/Cooperative Oxford Lab (NCCOS/COL) and partners to support field and laboratory research across a variety of disciplines and species related to coastal habitats and resources with focus on the Chesapeake Bay. The intent of the position is to gain broad experience in applied environmental science while assisting federal and state programs.

Opportunities:

The selected intern will have the opportunity to work alongside NCCOS/COL science staff across multiple fields. The intent of the position is for the selected individual to gain broad experience in applied environmental science while assisting federal and state programs.

Deliverables:

  • Collect specimens in the field, with and without watercraft, in various environments and adverse weather conditions
  • Support researchers in processing samples and conducting experiments
  • Prepare samples, mix reagents, make measurements, record data
  • Organize and input data into a database, maintain accurate detailed records of experiments, observations, measurements and results
  • Use and maintain analytical instruments
  • Assist in routine upkeep of small boats and field equipment
  • Update and maintain lab storage areas and inventories
  • Presentation to partners and NOAA staff at the conclusion of the internship summarizing the experiences gained and work conducted

Eligibility:

  • Must be a college-level student entering sophomore, junior, or senior year of undergraduate study
  • Must be a U.S. citizen and willing to undergo a security background check

Required Qualifications:

  • Willingness to work in sometimes adverse field conditions and perform a moderate level of physical labor associated with field collection, and boat, gear, and wet lab maintenance
  • Basic knowledge of biological sciences to make observations, analyze results and maintain accurate records
  • Ability to work effectively in a team environment in the office, lab, field (land and water)
  • Ability to follow safety standards and conduct work in an environmentally conscientious manner
  • Motivated self-starter with ability to work and reason independently
  • Be a college-level student entering sophomore, junior, or senior year of undergraduate study
  • Processing of a National Agency Check and fingerprinting will be required
  • Must be available to start on or about mid-May 2023 and work until mid-August 2023

Desired Qualifications:

  • Good academic standing (3.0 or better), pursuing or completed major or minor in environmental science or related field
  • Strong interpersonal and effective communications (verbal and written) skills
  • Experience with computer programs such as Excel, Word, PowerPoint and Google Apps
  • Ability to maintain focus and quality on routine and repetitive tasks
  • Ability to be flexible in responding to changes in schedules and job priorities
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including some long days, and infrequently on weekends
  • Ability to effectively split hours between telework and in-office work

Work Location and Duration:

We envision that this position will be an in-person position and will be based out of the Cooperative Oxford Lab in Oxford, Maryland.

The position will begin in mid-May and conclude in mid-August and will be in pace for 12 weeks. We plan on providing interns with access to a NOAA computer, email and phone services (in the office).

Compensation:

The intern will be reimbursed at the end of each month, for a total of up to $6,000 for the equivalent of 12 weeks (422 hours). Funds are available to compensate interns for occasional work-related travel. Candidates should expect to follow a normal weekday work schedule (roughly 9-5, M-F) with occasional variations for possible field work or other activities. No benefits are provided.

Diversity and Inclusion:

The NOAA Chesapeake Bay Office is committed to supporting a diverse and inclusive science oriented workforce.  Our internship program endeavors to recruit from a diverse, qualified group of potential applicants to secure a high-performing workforce drawn from all segments of American society.  NOAA is strongly supportive of broadening the participation of historically black colleges and universities, Hispanic serving institutions, tribal colleges and universities, and institutions that work in underserved areas.  We highly encourage applications from students at any of the above institutions as well as students that identify as black, Indigenous, person of color or 1st generation college student.

Application Instructions:

Applicants are instructed to register with the Chesapeake Jobs online application website: https://chesapeake.org/ncbo/ to apply. You will be instructed to submit a resume detailing your education and work experience and a cover letter that details your interest in this position and describes how your skill set will contribute to the work described above. You will also be asked to provide the review team with three references. The deadline for applications is January 28, 2024.