Ecology Internship – NOAA Northwest Fisheries Science Center (Seattle, WA)

Project description: We are seeking an intern that will be a key member of a research team including scientists from the Northwest Fisheries Science Center and the University of Washington. Intern will assist us in the laboratory and field operations for a large scale project examining the fate and transport of terrestrial and marine derived nutrients and pathogens in shellfish growing areas in Puget Sound. We are using stable isotopes of Carbon and Nitrogen to distinguish diet composition of Pacific oysters. Intern duties will primarily consist of preparing biological samples for stable isotope analysis and data entry. Fieldwork will consist of collecting Pacific oysters from growing areas at low tide. There may be additional opportunities to assist with other projects depending on time constraints and the level of interest.

Opportunity: This internship provides a unique opportunity to collaborate in a large-scale ecological study combining many disciplines (freshwater, marine ecology, chemistry and economics) and to gain valuable field and laboratory experience.

Skills required: Laboratory work requires a high level of attention to detail and organization. Good communication skills, ability to work well independently and with others and a positive attitude are also essential. Fieldwork may be physically rigorous and occur under harsh weather conditions so outdoor experience is a plus. Coursework in ecology and zoology helpful as is basic experience in collecting field data and laboratory procedures. Knowledge of excel is also helpful.

Commitment: Intern would be expected to commit 5-15 hours per week for at least three months. There would be potential opportunity to extend beyond three months depending on level of interest. Schedule would be flexible around school.

Location: NOAA/National Marine Fisheries Service, Northwest Fisheries Science Center
Cedar River, Washington (field work), Seattle, WA (laboratory work, field coordination), http://www.nwfsc.noaa.gov/

Intern supervisors: Peter Kiffney (Peter.Kiffney@noaa.gov) and Tish Conway-Cranos (Tish.Conway-Cranos@noaa.gov)
Number of Intern Slots Available: 1