The Marine & Environmental Research Institute (MERI) seeks a motivated Marine Research Intern for a 6 month position conducting field research by land and boat, analysis in the lab, data management and associated duties in support of MERI’s beach monitoring and microplastics research.
This internship is an excellent opportunity for an individual with a BA or BS, working towards a career in marine biology, ecotoxicology, coastal ecology, environmental conservation, to spend a summer on the coast of Maine in a small, fast paced, research-driven non-profit organization. A stipend and housing is provided. The Marine & Environmental Research Institute is a nonprofit scientific organization dedicated to protecting wildlife and people from the harmful impacts of toxic chemical exposure. The Institute produces scientific research that drives change and inspires solutions to the pressing environmental issues of our day. From flame retardants to plastics, our discoveries have informed the public and fueled key legislation, which impacts millions of people in Maine and across the country. Priority areas include: toxic exposure and health of marine mammal sentinels (seals and cetaceans); microplastics in the marine food web; and coastal monitoring in the Gulf of Maine. To learn more about our work, visit www.meriresearch.org MERI is located on the Blue Hill Peninsula in a unique coastal ecosystem bridging mid-coast and “Downeast” Maine. 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 Intern will assist the MERI Research Department with the implementation of its marine research projects. Large-scale projects investigating the impacts of microplastics in the marine food web will be the top priority of this internship. Other projects will include monitoring for bacteria at local swimming beaches, 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, analysis in the laboratory, 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 MERI 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, including on-site tissue collection and necropsies in the MERI 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 research presentations • Conduct literature searches, develop background information, and communicate and promote MERI’s research and mission to the public • Give a presentation to MERI staff on your research at the end of your internship • Assist with MERI 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 also 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 are a must. Knowledge of computer software including Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel required. Proficiency in photography/film, graphics, ArcGIS, and statistics (SPSS) software 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 (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 the Institute. Interns are responsible for all travel expenses and food. To Apply: please submit a cover letter outlining your experience, career objectives, and why you are interested in an internship at MERI along with your resume/CV and three references to: Madelyn Woods, Marine Research Coordinator, at mwo...@meriresearch.org Indicate “Marine Research Internship, NAME” in the subject line of your email. 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
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