Student Opportunity Announcements
Blue Hill Bay Coastal Monitoring Intern
The Marine Environmental Research Institute (MERI), a nonprofit organization based in Blue Hill, Maine, is recruiting to fill a Coastal Monitoring Internship position for the field season 2010. This is a full-time position requiring a 6 month commitment from April through October.
MERI is a scientific research and education organization dedicated to understanding the impacts of environmental pollutants on wildlife and human health, and to interpreting this information to a broad audience. Current projects include a marine ecosystem monitoring initiative and a long-term eco-toxicological investigation of northwestern Atlantic harbor seals.
This is an excellent opportunity for an individual working toward a career in marine ecology, natural resource sciences, or conservation biology to gain practical experience in the field and in the lab. The ideal candidate will possess a personal interest in ecosystem monitoring and a commitment to the mission of the organization.
Primary Job Responsibility
This position will involve assisting the Research Department with the implementation of the Blue Hill Bay Monitoring Project. Primary responsibilities will include water quality sampling at fresh and marine water sites, phytoplankton monitoring, water chemistry analysis in the field and in the lab, data entry and analysis. Additional duties may include assisting with pinniped monitoring and research outreach activities.
Job Description:
Conduct in-situ water quality monitoring using a DataSonde multi probe and sample collection at marine and freshwater sites throughout the Blue Hill Bay Watershed
Perform lab chemistries and bacterial assays and analysis following established standard operating procedures and quality assurance protocols
Assist with data entry in the field and in the lab and updating of laboratory records and logs
Assist with preparation of result summaries, reports, fact sheets and Power Point presentations
Be responsible for the education and training of junior interns and students in monitoring techniques
Articulate and promote the MERI mission to the public
Perform other duties relating to the organization's goals and mission as required
Monitoring and recording pinniped haul-out sites
Reports to: Monitoring Project Coordinator and Research Staff
Qualifications
Applicants should possess a BA or BS degree in ecology, environmental sciences, marine biology, conservation biology or a related major. Field and laboratory experience and a basic knowledge of statistics and databases are required. Experience with spectrophotometers and multi-parameter probes, and familiarity with environmental sampling and monitoring methods is preferred. Applicants must also be able to work outside in a variety of environmental conditions, be comfortable working on a marine research vessel and be available to work occasional nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.
Knowledge of computer software including Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel required; photography, ArcGIS, statistics (SPSS), and graphics experience is desirable. Knowledge of Gulf of Maine marine phytoplankton species is recommended. Applicant must possess a valid drivers license and a good driving record. Only US citizens should apply. Position requires some physical activity and applicant should be able to lift up to 40 lbs.
Time Requirements: April - October (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 Marine Environmental Research Institute. Interns are responsible for all travel expenses and food.
To Apply:
If you are interested in applying for this position, please submit a cover letter, CV and three references to:
Meggan Dwyer, Monitoring Coordinator at mdwyer@meriresearch.org
Please, no phone calls.
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