Mystic Aquarium-UConn Avery Point REU (Research Experiences for Undergraduates)

Applications due March 3rd! Mystic Aquarium & UConn Avery Point are currently accepting applications for their joint summer 2026 Research Experiences for Undergraduates Internship. Students are paired with a mentor either from Mystic Aquarium's research department or UConn Avery Point's department of marine science. The position runs from June 1st to August 7th, 2026. Accepted students will receive a $7000 stipend as well as an additional $175/week for living & food expenses. Travel and housing are also covered. For more information and to apply, please visit our website: https://www.mysticaquarium.org/research-and-conservation/research-experiences-for-undergraduates-2/. Applications require two letters of recommendation (at least one of which is from a college-level instructor), an unofficial transcript, and a short essay about how this specific opportunity will help shape your career goals.

Please contact reu@mysticaquarium.org or dlavoie@mysticaquarium.org with any questions.

Dolphins conservation project – training opportunities

Cetaceans and Marine Fauna Research Project

Delfini del Ponente is currently seeking applications for weekly and monthly training opportunities in Imperia, Italy, from May to October 2026.

The project
The dolphin research project “Delfini del Ponente”, launched in 2018, is the first initiative specifically dedicated to monitoring the occurrence and distribution of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in the Western Ligurian Sea. The project is structured on an annual basis to ensure year-round data collection. To date, the study has provided valuable insights into the local bottlenose dolphin community, including its social organisation, abundance, spatial distribution, and movement patterns, as well as connections with areas outside the region. In addition to dolphins, the dataset includes records of several other cetacean species and a wide range of marine fauna, such as seabirds—Mediterranean shearwaters (Puffinus yelkouan), Scopoli’s shearwaters (Calonectris diomedea), Northern gannets (Morus bassanus), Sandwich terns (Thalasseus sandvicensis), among others—as well as sea turtles (Caretta caretta) and sunfish (Mola mola).

Fieldwork mainly consists of land-based observations and boat-based (zodiac) surveys aimed at monitoring wildlife presence, distribution, and behaviour, while also collecting environmental and maritime traffic data. These activities offer an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience and develop practical skills in cetacean and marine biodiversity research. Both land-based and boat surveys are weather-dependent, and their frequency may vary from month to month.

Office-based activities (approximately 6 hours per day) include training sessions and lessons for interns, as well as supervision by experienced researchers during all stages of the work, such as photo-identification, data transcription and entry, skin lesion analysis, and GIS analyses using QGIS.

During the summer months, the study area has recently been affected by nesting and hatching events of loggerhead sea turtles. As a result, interns will carry out early-morning beach surveys to detect nesting attempts that occurred overnight. In the final days of incubation and during hatching, interns may also participate in nocturnal monitoring and patrolling at the nest sites. Given the high number of visitors in these areas, interns may be involved in outreach and awareness activities with tourists and the general public. During these periods, office work may be temporarily suspended to prioritise nest monitoring efforts.

Where: Imperia, Italy

When:

Weekly Program: November 1–7 (and possibly the month of September)
Monthly Program (minimum 30 days): May–October

Internship Activities
Interns will participate in a variety of activities, including:

Boat-based surveys: Monitoring the presence and distribution of bottlenose dolphins and other marine species.
Boat maintenance: Assisting with the upkeep of the research vessel.
Data collection: Recording data on cetaceans, fish, seabirds, and turtles.
Photo-ID matching and skin lesion analysis.
Land-based surveys and opportunistic surveys
Turtle tracks monitoring and potential nest monitoring (in summer).
Lectures and training: Gaining skills in cetacean ecology, research techniques, seabird and sea turtle ID.
Internship Details

Work Schedule: 5 days a week, 6-8 hours per day (fieldwork or office work depending on weather conditions).
Accommodation: Interns will be provided with accommodation in a shared apartment in Imperia.
Other Activities: Free time offers opportunities for swimming, diving, hiking, visiting historical sites, museums, and enjoying local beaches and watersports.
Skills/Qualifications

Minimum age of 18.
Be highly adaptable and flexible, as fieldwork is weather-dependent and our plans can change several times in one day.
Ability to stand several hours in the sun or cold weather on a small boat (up to 10-12).
Ability to use binoculars for several hours on a boat.
Fluent in English (spoken and written).
Degree or ongoing studies in biology, natural science, veterinary or similar (preferred).
Strong motivation and interest in cetaceans and research.
Ability to work in an office setting for up to 6 hours a day.
Be sociable and willing, as they are expected to live and work in an international team.
Training Programme Fee

Participation in the training programme requires the payment of a tuition fee. The fee includes:
Accommodation in a shared apartment in Imperia.
Tuition and training activities.
Use of the research vessel and scientific equipment.
Field trips, insurance, and field costs.
Note: Transportation expenses to and from Imperia and food costs are not included in the fee.

How to Apply

At this link, you can read the info package and the application https://delfinidelponente.it/en/internship/

This is a great opportunity to get involved in cetacean research, encounter marine biodiversity while gaining fieldwork experience, travel and explore the beautiful Liguria region and support cetacean research and conservation. If you are passionate about marine research and would like to contribute to cetacean conservation, please send your CV and a cover letter outlining your interest and relevant experience to info@delfinidelponente.it.

For more information, feel free to contact us. We look forward to receiving your application!

Veterinary Assistant

Alaska SeaLife Center
Veterinary Assistant
Vet Science
Full Time

Salary:
$20.35 Hourly
Summary:

This position has the responsibility of supplying veterinary assistance and laboratory technical support to the Center’s Veterinary staff. Assists with and performs supportive and medical tasks to ensure the health and welfare of all animals housed at the Alaska SeaLife Center, including permanent collection animals and wildlife response patients. Assists with the day to day functioning of the laboratory, quality control program and laboratory testing including but not limited to: hematology, serum chemistry, microbiology, urinalysis, fecal parasite exams, and water coliform tests. Opportunities to assist the Wildlife Response program and support internal and external research projects.

Education/Training Requirements:

A Bachelor’s Degree in a related field. At least 1 year’s experience in a veterinary care position working with exotic or zoological animals (marine mammal, avian, fish and invertebrate experience preferred), some of which could be husbandry support
Experience with animal nursing (i.e. sampling, wound care, treatments), clinical laboratory testing (i.e. urinalysis, automated and manual blood analysis, basic cytology, handling biological specimens), and working with hazardous materials.
Certified open water SCUBA diver preferred.
Essential Duties:

1. Provides routine and emergency support as part of the medical care of all ASLC animals (including those that are a part of ASLC’s permanent collection, wildlife response, and field projects) during regular work hours and is available to respond in person to animal medical emergencies when on-call as needed. This support may be under direct supervision of or as directed by a veterinarian. Carries out treatment, collects diagnostic samples, and administers medications as directed by Veterinarians.

2. Learns and assists with the maintenance of veterinary equipment and supplies. This includes general organization, cleanliness, biosafety, calibration, QA/QC, maintenance, repairs, and ordering, supporting the maintenance of surgical, anesthetic, clinical, diagnostic, laboratory, and necropsy areas, supplies, and equipment.

3. Learns and assists with diagnostic testing to include sample collection, handling, and processing, including in-house analysis, archiving, and sending samples to outside laboratories as required. Reports results in a timely manner.

4. Maintains a variety of records and logs in paper and/or electronic format, including ZIMS and other platforms. This will include test results, treatment plans, equipment maintenance, and others as needed.

5. Assists with the preparation and presentation of education, visitor, and staff training materials related to clinical animal laboratory topics, animal health, treatment plans, and staff safety.

6. Supports undergraduate interns, shadows, and volunteers, as well as staff from other departments when participating in veterinary procedures and lab processes.

7. Assists with the Wildlife Response Program on their operational needs (supplies, veterinary equipment, husbandry), including hotline support. Assists with direct animal care and cross trains with other departments for efficient use of staff resources.

8. Assists with obtaining samples and data for research projects and maintains sample inventory. Helps with providing data for reports and scientific publications. Assists with necropsies on site and in the field as needed.

9. Fosters good relations with visitors, volunteers, community leaders, contractors, and fellow staff members by promoting positive attitudes, good will, cooperation, and striving towards providing a high standard of service.

10. Complies with all Alaska SeaLife Center policies, procedures, and programs.

11. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Other Skills and Abilities:

• Successful candidates should possess: exceptional time management/organizational skills; ability to communicate in oral and written form effectively within various levels of the organization; excellent computer skills including experience with Google applications, Excel, Word, and database programs; and knowledge of basic research methods and data collection techniques.

• Candidates should be able to be self-motivated, independent workers, detail oriented, investigative, and possess a strong desire to see the completion of projects.

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for individuals with disabilities.

Must meet the physical demands of the position, including the ability to lift up to 50 pounds without assistance, access and physically inspect animal exhibits and pools, and work in varied environments (both indoors and outdoors).

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Apply by February 22nd, 2026 for full consideration

Full Time with Benefits

Please submit a resume, cover letter and letter of recommendation with your application.

Must be able to pass a background check.

Stranding Intern

Program Description
The IMMS Stranding internship is designed as a way for students and recent graduates interested in a career in marine sciences to gain valuable experience in a real world setting. As an intern you will be trained in field response to stranded live and dead sea turtles and dolphins. You will have the opportunity to assist with necropsies of dolphins and sea turtles both in the field and in our lab. As an intern you will additionally have the opportunity to gain experience in husbandry and medical treatments for live rescued sea turtles and dolphins. Interns may additionally have the opportunity to assist veterinary staff with medical procedures on resident animals and participate and assist staff in other departments at IMMS to include Animal Care, Education, and Research.

Requirements
Interns must be:
• 18 years or older.
• A recent college graduate or actively pursuing a college degree in the sciences.
• Willing to accept the internship as an unpaid position.
• Able to commit to a minimum of at least 12 weeks, 40 hours a week.
• Available to work weekdays, weekends, and holidays.
• Able to lift 50lbs.
• Able to work long hours on your feet and work outside in all weather conditions.
• Able to maintain a positive attitude, good work ethic, sense of responsibility, and a strong willingness to learn.
• Able to handle the sight of blood and acrid smells.
• Financially stable enough to obtain housing and transportation, though IMMS staff will do their best to assist you in making arrangements.
• Able to comply with IMMS protocols, rules, and regulations.

Principle Duties
The IMMS stranding staff works in cooperation with state and government agencies to respond, document, and report sea turtle and dolphin strandings in the State of Mississippi. Interns are directly involved in this process working with the stranding staff and veterinary staff to collect data and samples, perform necropsies, and fill out the appropriate stranding paperwork. Interns will be trained on how to collect morphometric data as well as appropriate tissue samples in the field. They will have the opportunity to work with the veterinarians on staff while performing full necropsies in our lab and will gain valuable experience in identifying anatomy and medical abnormalities in sea turtles and dolphins. Interns will perform daily tasks including cleaning, running our stranding hotline, feeding and basic husbandry of our rehabilitation animals, and water quality procedures. Interns will additionally participate in beach surveys on UTV to locate strandings and possible sea turtle nesting activity. Every year is different in the stranding department depending on the type and number of cases we receive. As such, interns one year may not have the same experiences or opportunities as interns from another year. If possible, interns may have the opportunity to assist veterinary staff with medical procedures both on rehabilitated and resident animals. This will include processing bloodwork and other diagnostic tests and restraining for exams, blood draws, ultrasounds, radiographs, and other procedures. Interns may also participate in the release of our rehabilitated animals that are ready to be returned to the wild.

To Apply www.imms.org
To apply, please send the following documents by email to stranding@imms.org with “Stranding Internship” in the subject line:
• Submit Completed– IMMS Stranding Internship Application
• Full resume – Include computer skills and proficiency, volunteer experience, and/or other accomplishments.
• Two letters of recommendation – Provide at least one academic, and one work/volunteer related letter if applicable. Letters may be emailed by the applicant or the person writing the recommendation letter.
• A one- to two-page statement of interest – describe your background, pertinent experiences and interests, accomplishments, and how this Internship will benefit you. Also address the questions found on the application form in your letter.
• A copy of your current college transcript– this can be an unofficial copy.
Documents must be in one of the following formats – PDF, .doc, .docx, and must be submitted together with your first and last name and the internship year and term for which you are applying in the file name. Examples:
2026_Summer_Jane_Doe_Resume
2026_Summer_Jane_Doe_Statement
2026_Summer_Jane_Doe_Transcript
2026_Summer_Jane_Doe_Application

Additional Information
Stranding internships are unpaid positions. IMMS provides a $100 reimbursement per week for groceries. Interns are responsible for their own housing and transportation. Once accepted, IMMS staff will try and assist interns in finding rooms available to rent.

Response Volunteer Manager, Northern Range Operations

We’re Hiring!
Response Volunteer Manager, NRO

Location of Position: Marin Headlands, Sausalito, California
Reports to: Northern Range Operations Senior Manager
Position Classification & Expected Hours of Work, and Travel:
• This is a full-time position.
• Regular onsite work is required.
• Work schedule is Tuesday through Saturday.
• Days and hours of work may vary according to the needs of The Marine Mammal Center.
• Evening, weekend, and holiday work is required as job duties demand.
• Travel within California is expected for this position.

Compensation Range: $70,720 – $76,897 annual

Benefits:
• Holidays
• Sick Time
• Vacation
• Medical, Dental, and Vision
• Life Insurance
• Long Term Disability Insurance
• 401k Retirement Plan
• Employee Assistance Program

Job Summary:
The Response Volunteer Manager, NRO is responsible for leading volunteer-driven marine mammal response operations and strengthening volunteer capacity across The Marine Mammal Centers Northern Range Operations (NRO) from San Mateo County through Mendocino County, in support of Field Operations and Response (FOR) program readiness. They oversee volunteer onboarding, training, scheduling, retention, and readiness, leading and supporting more than 200 volunteers in various roles engaged in assessment, rescue, and transport. Working in close partnership with the Northern Range Operations Senior Manager, this role ensures consistent volunteer capacity, operational alignment, and continuous improvement of operational practices, and leads community engagement and outreach activities that increase public awareness, responsible reporting, and an increased volunteer pipeline. Through this work, the Response Volunteer Manager, NRO directly advances the Center’s mission and strategic priorities.

Essential Functions:
Program Management: 35%
· Lead the planning, coordination, and continuous improvement of volunteer programs supporting Northern Range Operations (NRO) response and Field Operations and Response (FOR), ensuring volunteers are effectively trained, supported, and deployed to meet operational needs.
· Partner with the People & Culture department to define volunteer recruitment needs, support onboarding for NRO Response volunteers and Field Operations Mentors (FOMs) and ensure volunteer compliance with organizational requirements.
· Collaborate with the People & Culture department and Learning & Development team to design, deliver, and continuously improve initial and ongoing training programs for NRO volunteers, interns, apprentices and FOMs, including developing training modules, set training schedules, and aligning practices with other FOR regions.
· Oversee volunteer data management and scheduling systems, maintaining accurate volunteer profiles across technology platforms (e.g., Volgistics, GroupMe) to support response readiness and operational coordination.
· Monitor volunteer participation and performance by running regular reports, engaging volunteers who fall below participation requirements, and collaborating with NRO department, People & Culture department, and FOMs to address engagement concerns or process deactivations as needed.
· Provide direct volunteer leadership during hotline coverage and response operations, and partner with NRO department to train and support NRO staff in effective volunteer management practices.
· Lead NRO volunteer communications, including newsletters, response reminders, and surveys, and collaborate with NRO and People & Culture department to assess feedback, evaluate retention trends, and implement engagement and improvement strategies.
· Plan and support volunteer recognition and wellness initiatives, including events and annual celebrations, in collaboration with People & Culture.
· Evaluate volunteer capacity models, retention strategies, response policies, procedures, tools, and internal collaboration systems, performing quality control through observation and coaching, and implement improvements or propose enhancements.
· Lead special projects that strengthen NRO and FOR operational effectiveness, volunteer readiness, and overall response capacity as assigned.

Leadership & Volunteer Community Engagement: 25%
· Provide leadership, coaching, training, and expectation setting to volunteers to strengthen communication, clarify expectations, and promote a positive, supportive, and team-oriented volunteer environment.
· Ensure volunteer capacity levels accommodate response activities, including recruitment partnership with People & Culture, onboarding, and placement of new volunteers.
· Support effective collaboration among volunteers and between volunteers and NRO staff by facilitating clear communication, addressing concerns, and escalating issues to management as appropriate.
· Support FOMs and other NRO volunteers in community engagement efforts throughout the Northern Range, ensuring consistent messaging and effective representation of the Center.
· Build and maintain strategic relationships with local and affiliated partners, including enforcement agencies, conservation organizations, research institutions, community stakeholders, to support coordinated response efforts and regional collaboration.
· Plan, coordinate, and attend community engagement and outreach events that increase public awareness of marine mammal response and support volunteer recruitment across the Northern Range.
· Organize and support outreach activities such as presentations, site visits, and events featuring internal and external speakers.
· Collaborate with various internal program partners to coordinate public engagement activities within the Northern Range and plan appropriate NRO volunteer involvement and representation.
· Serve as a regional subject matter expert for media requests, participate in required media training, and support accurate, mission-aligned public communication.

Hotline & Response Operations Support: 25%
· Provide hotline and response operations support as needed based on NRO staffing, schedule, and response capacity, ensuring timely, accurate, and professional handling of marine mammal stranding reports.
· Answer calls from the public, partner agencies, and other stakeholders reporting distressed marine mammals; gather accurate information regarding species, location, condition, and circumstances; and educate callers about appropriate response actions and the Center’s work.
· Accurately enter and maintain data related to all stranded animal calls, responses, and patients within the Center’s custom-built animal database, remaining current on system updates and data entry requirements.
· Collaborate with callers, NRO staff, volunteers, veterinary teams, and other internal partners to remotely assess animals and determine appropriate response actions, including rescue, monitoring, or referral.
· Coordinate and transfer appropriate animal reports to the Center’s Field Offices in Castroville and Morro Bay, and support Field Office teams with threatened species permit reporting and response-related communications as needed.
· Support and train Dispatch volunteers, apprentices, and interns by providing guidance on hotline coverage, data entry, and response protocols.
· Provide response operations support as needed, including remotely assembling and coordinating volunteer response teams, managing multiple concurrent responses across California, and providing real-time coaching and decision support during complex, stressful, and potentially hazardous rescue situations.
· Exercise sound judgment in supporting volunteers to assess animal condition, determine whether rescue is required, and select appropriate courses of action, serving as a final decision-maker when necessary in collaboration with volunteers and response staff.
· Support onsite response operations by assisting volunteers with equipment, vehicles, logistics, and other in-person operational needs during scheduled shifts.
· Respond to general public inquiries regarding volunteer opportunities, donations, and Center programs, redirecting inquiries appropriately.
Budget Management & Fundraising: 5%
· May support the department’s budget development; tracks results to ensure alignment with key financial targets for expenses and/or revenue in collaboration with management; approves and monitors team expenditures.
· Represent and promote the Center to current and potential donors as opportunities arise.
· May occasionally support the cultivation of individual donors, grants, family foundations, and corporate sponsors in both written and verbal formats.

Organizational Impact: 5%
· May actively serve on an organizational wide committee(s).
· Support and prioritize the Center’s DEI objectives and integrate as opportunities arise.

Supervisory Responsibility:
200+ Volunteers
1 – 4 Interns, Apprentices, Fellows

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
• Commitment to the mission of The Marine Mammal Center.
• Broad knowledge of current marine mammal rescue and care techniques.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct self in a calm and professional manner while handling calls and in person circumstances involving stressful situations with sick and injured marine mammals, including making life-or-death decisions about animal care, while training staff and volunteers, and providing support to concerned members of the public.
• Demonstrated ability to lead, support, and influence volunteers through clear expectations, coaching, and accountability.
• Ability to provide timely, respectful feedback and guidance, including addressing performance or conduct concerns and escalating issues appropriately in high-stress or time-sensitive situations.
• Skill in motivating, engaging, and retaining a diverse volunteer workforce by fostering trust, emotional intelligence, and alignment with operational and organizational priorities.
• Ability to react appropriately, calmly, and timely in emergency situations, maintaining mental capacity which permits making sound decisions and good judgements.
• Ability to oversee accurate recordkeeping, ensuring data entry, compliance, and integrity within the recordkeeping system and other databases.
• Ability to translate management directives into clear staff priorities, ensuring alignment between daily work and organizational objectives.
• Demonstrated decision-making and judgment skills, with the capacity to prioritize, allocate resources, and make sound operational choices in complex situations.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to convey information clearly and foster transparent communication across teams, departments, and volunteers.
• Energy and enthusiasm for working with staff and volunteers of diverse backgrounds and differing ability levels.
• Ability to patiently provide mentorship and instruction to students, staff, and volunteers at differing stages of their career path, demonstrating patience, adaptability, and commitment to professional development.
• Ability to work collaboratively and build trust across diverse teams, fostering and maintaining open communication, shared responsibility, and mutual respect.
• Ability to work independently with minimal direction to manage projects, priorities, fulfill commitments, and meet deadlines.
• Strong organizational skills including attention to detail, problem-solving, multi-tasking, follow-up, and time-management skills.
• Ability to solve problems efficiently and effectively, making determinations and judgement calls while prioritizing work activities.
• Adapts to and learns from change, challenges, and feedback; demonstrates flexibility in approaches to work; helps others adapt to new tasks and processes.
• Skills using Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, SharePoint, Word) and videoconference technology (Slack, Teams, Zoom).
• Demonstrated ability to interact with others thoughtfully and respectfully, applying self-awareness to foster trust and effective collaboration.
• Willingness to support and participate in The Marine Mammal Center’s diversity, equity, and inclusion programs.

Qualifications and Experience:
• Valid driver license with acceptable motor vehicle record to maintain standards of insurability. (Must be 21+ years old as frequently driving company vehicles is required for this position.)
• A combination of education and experience equivalent to a bachelor’s degree in business administration, business management, animal science, marine science, or a related field; and 4 years of experience with coordination of logistical support, remote support, or other equivalents, and a minimum of 3 years of people management.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements:
• This position operates in a professional office and hospital environment both indoors and outdoors with access to various parts of the facilities via outdoor pathways.
• Working in outdoor weather conditions and elements is expected.
• Routinely uses standard office equipment requiring repetitive motion in tasks.
• Ability to work at a desk for extended periods of time using a computer.
• Ability to work in an open-cubicle office space environment with many distractions.
• Ability to operate equipment safely and competently to carry out duties.
• Ability to drive/operate a vehicle for extensive periods of time, this includes operating large trucks to assist with transporting animals between sites.
• Ability to safely walk on beaches of varying terrain to assist with animal rescues in various locations across California.
• Ability to walk up to 2 miles during a shift on a frequent basis.
• Ability to spend extended periods on your feet, walking, standing, crouching, and climbing stairs (potentially in inclement weather conditions).
• Ability to perform physical work which requires manual dexterity, agility, strength, and coordination, including the ability to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. (This includes the ability to restrain large marine mammals and walking on varying terrain while carrying large animal carriers.)
• Risks associated with animal handling such as animal bites or scratches.
• Exposure to allergens and zoonotic diseases.
• Involves strong smells associated with dead animals (carcasses) and the care of live animals.

OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY
The Marine Mammal Center actively engages individuals from all backgrounds. We are committed to embracing diversity within our organization because we firmly believe that diverse employee teams help us to achieve our best organizational outcomes and provide the most effective support to the communities we serve. We are deeply dedicated to creating and maintaining an inclusive, equitable and supportive work environment. We strongly encourage people from underrepresented groups to apply. The Marine Mammal Center believes in growth and supporting our employees as best we can so they can become their best selves in and outside of work. We believe that a healthy work environment means building an inclusive culture where people can thrive together and feel supported and empowered. We believe in stretch versus constraint.

OUR MISSION
The Marine Mammal Center advances ocean health through marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation, research, and education.

ABOUT THE MARINE MAMMAL CENTER
For more information, please visit our “About Us” page at www.marinemammalcenter.org

To Apply:
Please submit a cover letter and resume and provide a brief description about how your experience aligns with the role.

Note that applications without a cover letter will not be considered.

In your cover letter, please feel free to note which pronouns you use (For example – she/her/hers, he/him/his, they/them/theirs, etc).

We strongly encourage people of color, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and non-binary people, veterans, parents, and individuals with disabilities to apply. The Center is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes everyone to our team. If you need reasonable accommodation at any point in the application or interview process, please let us know.

Chiswell Project/Interpretation Intern

Chiswell Project/Interpretation Summer 2026 Internship:

Summary:

The intern will split time between the interpretation team delivering informal front of house education for 20 hours a week and with the Chiswell staff for 20 hours a week. Interns will assist with the day-today support of animal-related research activities involving Steller sea lions. Candidates should exhibit a strong interest in field-based and animal-related research work and associated support. The intern is required to work a flexible schedule to accommodate variable hours, including early mornings, evenings and weekends as needed. Applicants should possess the ability to work for extended periods of time while staying focused on the task at hand. Under the guidance of Chiswell and Interpretation staff, the Intern will be trained and expected to perform the essential duties.

Education/Training Requirements:

Previous customer service job preferred.

Essential Duties:

1. Interpret all of the Alaska SeaLife Center’s static and live animal exhibits housing marine mammals, birds, fish, and invertebrates. Help maintain the physical appearance of manned exhibits and deliver announcements over the public address system.

2. Present briefings, lectures, presentations, multi-media shows, structured and impromptu talks, and guided tours on all of the Alaska SeaLife Center’s static and live animal exhibits by learning to employ appropriate interpretive techniques and devices geared to the characteristics and interest of particular audiences.

3. Operate remotely controlled cameras from a desktop computer.

4. Make behavioral observations of Steller sea lions and demonstrate learned skills through video recording, data entry, and management.

5. Follow a regimented schedule of observations and be prompt with daily duties.

6. Interacting daily with interpretation, husbandry and research personnel.

7. Performs other duties relating to the Center’s goals and mission statement as required.

Other Skills and Abilities:

Ability to speak effectively and to be comfortable meeting new people when interfacing with existing and potential new donors. Ability to work independently with excellent organizational and time management skills. Proficient computer skills including basic Microsoft applications, specifically Excel are preferred.

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Ability to see and hear; stand and walk; stoop, kneel, and crouch; use arms and hands; handle objects, tools, and controls; and sit. Ability to lift and move 20 pounds.

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Unpaid Internship | Housing Provided

Start: 5/18/2026 End: Negotiable

Please submit a resume, cover letter and letter of recommendation with your application.

Must be able to pass a background check.

Summer Internship – Wildlife Response

Wildlife Response Summer 2026 Internship:

Summary:
The Alaska SeaLife Center is dedicated to understanding and maintaining the integrity of the marine ecosystem of Alaska through research, rehabilitation, and public education. All internships are unpaid, and a minimum commitment of 12-16 weeks is required. Housing is provided. The position is scheduled for five days and 40 hours each week. Applicants must be willing to work a flexible schedule, as hours may include evenings, overnights, weekends, and holidays. Interns will be exposed to and gain experience in the rescue and rehabilitation efforts of Alaska’s stranded wild marine mammals and birds. In addition to learning animal restraint and husbandry skills, interns are expected to work with the public in person and over the phone in a professional and courteous manner.

Education/Training Requirements:
The internship is intended for adults over 18 years of age. Applicants with a background in biology, animal husbandry, and wildlife rehabilitation preferred. Experience with Google Suite and Zims360 preferred.

Essential Duties:
Under the guidance of Wildlife Response staff, the Intern will be trained and expected to perform the following duties:
1. Prepare daily animal diets and perform routine cleaning of quarantine and work areas.
2. Assist in the care of the Center’s rehabilitating animals and maintenance of the facility.
3. Assist with pool cleanings and water quality testing.
4. Assist with the Stranded Animal Hotline and interact with the public professionally.
5. Assist with the rescue and release of stranded animals if opportunities present. Please note, due to the remote nature of Alaska, most animal recovery in the field happens with local authorities and the animal is then transferred to the Center. Rarely do staff pick up animals directly from their stranding location.
6. Participate in educational talks or tours, and assist in the creation of computerized learning modules.
7. Maintain and update computerized medical records.
8. Help ensure that the rehabilitation clinic and quarantine area are stocked and prepared to receive animals.
9. Comply with all Alaska SeaLife Center policies, procedures, and programs.
10. Perform other duties relating to the Center’s goals and mission statement as required.

Other Skills and Abilities:
Skilled in written and verbal communication, experienced giving public presentations and/or working with various age groups in an educational setting. Ability to be organized, self-motivated, detail-oriented, and possess a strong desire to see to the completion of projects is highly desired.

Physical Requirements:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. Applicants should be agile with a good sense of balance in order to maneuver around the exhibits and holding areas, and be able to get on hands and knees to restrain marine mammal patients. Applicants should be able to work outside in the sun, wind, rain, or a combination of all three. Ability to see and hear; stand and walk; stoop, kneel, and crouch; use arms and hands; handle objects, tools, and controls; and sit. Ability to lift and move 50 pounds.

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Unpaid Internship | Housing Provided

Start: 5/18/2026 End: Negotiable

Please submit a resume, cover letter and letter of recommendation with your application.

Must be able to pass a background check.

Research Co-Director/Project Manager

Research Co-Director/Manager

Wild Dolphin Project, North Palm Beach, Florida
The Wild Dolphin Project is the longest running underwater dolphin research project in the world. Our motto is “ In Their World, On Their Terms”. Since 1985 we have tracked and observed a resident group of dolphins in the Bahamas. We have a noninvasive approach using photography and underwater video to document individuals and their behaviors. We focus our fieldwork in the Bahamas, under a Bahamian scientific research permit, during summer months and work off the coast of Florida in the winter, under NMFS permit. We publish our work in scientific journals and present at national/ international conferences. www.wilddolphinproject.org

The Research Co-Director/Manager (RDM) will prepare for fieldwork and collection of data and publication of the work. The RDM spends time and works with the Research Assistant learning and analyzing digital photographs of dolphin dorsal fins and body marking and other data collected during the field season. Responsibilities also include creating publications, engaging in conferences, and lecturing to the public. RDM works with the boat captain and organizes details of the field season in the Bahamas and offshore Florida work. Current funding is stable and RDM submits reports and yearly requests as needed. This is a full-time permanent position. This position involves heavy fieldwork (3-4 months) in summer months, out of the United States, and candidate must be willing and able to spend weeks at sea throughout the summer working on a live-aboard vessel. Salary range based on experience, 60-70k/year. Benefits (vacation days, health insurance, 403 matching). Compensation time given for extensive fieldwork in the summer.

The critical requirements of the position include the following:
-PhD in Biology, Marine Sciences, or a related field
-A Valid US Driver license and U.S. Passport (no exceptions)
-Scientific publications in press or published
-Minimum 2 years of field experience, photo ID work, and database entry
-P.A.M experience with field deployment and acoustic analysis
-Snorkel and freediving

Additional desirable qualifications also include the following:
-Underwater photography and video experience
-Basic MAC computer skills required, with data entry experience, including Microsoft Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Filemaker Pro or equivalent database program.
-Demonstrated ability to work independently and as a team and to prioritize tasks
-Experience working with interns, graduate students, collaborating scientists, and public.
-Must be comfortable on a boat at sea for weeks at a time with working groups.
-Photoshop, iMovie, Go Pro editing, and 360 camera experience helpful.

Contact: Dr. Denise Herzing. Send c.v., letter of interest, and 3 recommendations
dlherzing@wilddolphinproject.org

Widlife Response Intern

Wildlife Response Summer 2026 Internship:

Summary:
The Alaska SeaLife Center is dedicated to understanding and maintaining the integrity of the marine ecosystem of Alaska through research, rehabilitation, and public education. All internships are unpaid, and a minimum commitment of 12-16 weeks is required. Housing is provided. The position is scheduled for five days and 40 hours each week. Applicants must be willing to work a flexible schedule, as hours may include evenings, overnights, weekends, and holidays. Interns will be exposed to and gain experience in the rescue and rehabilitation efforts of Alaska’s stranded wild marine mammals and birds. In addition to learning animal restraint and husbandry skills, interns are expected to work with the public in person and over the phone in a professional and courteous manner.

Education/Training Requirements:
The internship is intended for adults over 18 years of age. Applicants with a background in biology, animal husbandry, and wildlife rehabilitation preferred. Experience with Google Suite and Zims360 preferred.

Essential Duties:
Under the guidance of Wildlife Response staff, the Intern will be trained and expected to perform the following duties:
1. Prepare daily animal diets and perform routine cleaning of quarantine and work areas.
2. Assist in the care of the Center’s rehabilitating animals and maintenance of the facility.
3. Assist with pool cleanings and water quality testing.
4. Assist with the Stranded Animal Hotline and interact with the public professionally.
5. Assist with the rescue and release of stranded animals if opportunities present. Please note, due to the remote nature of Alaska, most animal recovery in the field happens with local authorities and the animal is then transferred to the Center. Rarely do staff pick up animals directly from their stranding location.
6. Participate in educational talks or tours, and assist in the creation of computerized learning modules.
7. Maintain and update computerized medical records.
8. Help ensure that the rehabilitation clinic and quarantine area are stocked and prepared to receive animals.
9. Comply with all Alaska SeaLife Center policies, procedures, and programs.
10. Perform other duties relating to the Center’s goals and mission statement as required.

Other Skills and Abilities:
Skilled in written and verbal communication, experienced giving public presentations and/or working with various age groups in an educational setting. Ability to be organized, self-motivated, detail-oriented, and possess a strong desire to see to the completion of projects is highly desired.

Physical Requirements:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. Applicants should be agile with a good sense of balance in order to maneuver around the exhibits and holding areas, and be able to get on hands and knees to restrain marine mammal patients. Applicants should be able to work outside in the sun, wind, rain, or a combination of all three. Ability to see and hear; stand and walk; stoop, kneel, and crouch; use arms and hands; handle objects, tools, and controls; and sit. Ability to lift and move 50 pounds.

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Unpaid Internship | Housing Provided

Start: 5/18/2026 End: Negotiable

Please submit a resume, cover letter and letter of recommendation with your application.

Must be able to pass a background check.

Marine Wildlife Veterinary Laboratory Winter Internship

Summary:

Intern will learn about the diagnostics and instruments commonly used in a veterinary laboratory specializing in Alaskan marine mammals, birds and fish. Intern will be exposed to the methods used to maintain a clean and efficient laboratory. Skills and procedures learned will include: blood analysis, urine and fecal analysis, total and fecal coliform water quality analysis, sample collection during animal exams or necropsy, and maintaining veterinary records and sample inventory. Although tasks will be in direct support of animal welfare, there is very little direct contact with animals in this position.

Education/Training Requirements:

Working on or have a Bachelor's degree in a science related field and interest in the Veterinary Medicine field. Experience in a veterinary laboratory setting is helpful but not required.

Essential Duties:

Assist with setting up and processing routine blood samples. Work with laboratory technicians to perform plasma/serum separations, prepare blood slides, and assist with performing serum chemistries and cell counts using an automated analyzer.
Assist with maintaining laboratory and veterinary clinic cleanliness and routine maintenance of equipment.
Conducts weekly water quality testing.
Assist with maintaining sample inventory
Assist with shipping samples to outside researchers
Assist with maintaining medical and laboratory records and logs.
Assist with organizing and inventorying consumable supplies for the laboratories, to include lifting and moving boxes up to 50 lbs.
Fosters good relations with visitors, volunteers, community leaders, contractors, and fellow staff members by promoting positive attitudes, good will, cooperation, and providing high standards of service.
Present structured and impromptu talks on topics regarding the Alaska SeaLife Center’s Veterinary Department by learning to employ appropriate public presentation techniques and devices geared to the characteristics and interest of particular audiences.
Complies with all Alaska SeaLife Center policies, procedures, and programs.
Performs other related duties as assigned.
Other Skills and Abilities:

Applicants should be agile with a good sense of balance in order to maneuver around the exhibits and holding areas, including uneven and potentially slippery surfaces. Applicants must be comfortable working with database computer programs (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access) and sensitive equipment. Must be willing to work with frozen samples and in walk-in freezers. As well as possess good communication skills and the ability to follow instructions.

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

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Unpaid Internship | Housing Provided

Start: ASAP End: Negotiable

Please submit a resume, cover letter and letter of recommendation with your application.

Must be able to pass a background check.