We are currently looking to fill research internships for the fall (August 18 - December 19) semesters of 2008, and spring (Feb. 2 - May 29) semester of 2009. Key application information.

The Whale Center of New England internship provides the experience needed to pursue fields in marine biology and animal behavior further. It is our goal to provide interns with the opportunity to collect valuable information important to the marine mammal field and to see how this information is used in management and conservation efforts in this area. Interns represent many different interests and backgrounds, including numerous colleges and universities. In addition, many of our former interns have continued to pursue their interests in various fields of biology and education. Examples include Ph.D. candidates at the University of California at Davis, McMaster University (Ontario), the University of Hawaii, and Georgetown University. Other past interns are Master's graduates from Simmons College, UMass Dartmouth, University of Maryland, Western Illinois University, and Boston University and Master's candidates from Bangor University (UK), Duke University, University of Hawaii, Antioch New England Graduate School and Moss Landing Marine Laboratories. Past interns have also continued work at The Kewalo Basin Marine Mammal Laboratory, Wildlife Trust, Florida Marine Research Institute, the New England Aquarium, the National Marine Fisheries Service Science Center, the NMFS Protected Resources Division, Catalina Island Marine Institute, and Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution.

Internship Description

Each internship session offers different experiences in marine mammal science that will depend on the season. The following descriptions represent a typical session with the Whale Center, but are subject to change based on current projects. Interns will work closely with Whale Center staff in order to accomplish all goals set for the field season.

Summer Interships

During the summer, most of the session is spent in the field on board various research platforms, including our 42' research vessel, Mysticete, and commercial whale watch vessels. Interns are responsible for collecting, organizing, transcribing, and analyzing data dealing with the behavior and identification of North Atlantic cetaceans (whales, dolphins and porpoises). Interns are also involved in public education aboard commercial whale watch vessels, as well as our land-based Visitor Center. Additional duties include, but are not limited to: data entry, and general office work and equipment upkeep.

Fall Internships

Boat-based research continues into the fall session with the additional possibility of dedicated population surveys for various species of endangered whales in feeding grounds off the coast of New England. These surveys may continue through the duration of the internship period. In addition, fall interns participate in weekly group discussions, Visitor Center staffing, general office duties, and extensive computer work. There is extensive data manipulation, including: entry and processing, photo-identification catalog upkeep, and photo-identification matching. Fall interns also participate in a dedicated research project that is based on data collected at The Whale Center. Interns present the results of the project at the end of the session.

Spring Internships

Spring interns also create a dedicated project during their session. The early portion of the session consists of consists of stranding responses, extensive computer work involving photo-identification matching and data entry. Occasional boat based surveys early in the session are possible, but are not guaranteed. Spring interns conduct land-based surveys throughout the late fall and early spring at various locations on Cape Ann that are frequent haul-out sites for a variety of seals. As the session progresses, interns participate in boat-based field data collection. This involves trips on both our 42 foot research vessel, Mysticete, and commercial whale watch vessels and will continue for the duration of the internship session.

All Sessions

Throughout the year, interns respond to strandings of both large and small marine mammals (training provided), participate in animal necropsies (when possible), and attend meetings and conferences related to marine mammal research and conservation. As a result of these various duties and responsibilities, we are looking for students with a blend of enthusiasm, knowledge of scientific methods, and communication skills.

Housing and Fees

Interns live together in a two bedroom apartment and share cooking and cleaning duties. Each bedroom is shared with one other person. A living arrangement such as this is conducive to open discussion and interaction between peers, and home life is often a continuation of the day in the field; therefore, it is essential that candidates can combine these two areas. A fee of $1000 (per intern) is charged to assist The Whale Center in the cost of housing, utilities, educational materials, and staff support. Interns will receive a weekly food stipend during the duration of the session.

College Credit

College credit may be arranged by the student through their department or as an independent research program at their college or university. The Whale Center encourages this, and will take whatever steps are required to facilitate such efforts.

Application Procedure

The application period is closed for the summer 2008 internship. Applications for the fall 2008 and spring 2009 sessions will be accepted on a rolling bases until all positions are filled.

Internship applicants should have the following:

• A background in biology, zoology, or related field
• Some knowledge of research methods and design
• An ability to work, live and communicate well with others
• Enthusiasm and dedication to work long days (sometimes 12 hours or more) in the field or office

In order to formally apply, please send:

• Completed application form
• Cover letter (a single application is accepted for more than one session)
• Resume/Curriculum vitae
• Updated transcript(s)
• Letter of recommendation

Once your application has been received, you will be contacted if we would like to arrange an interview. In-person interviews are preferred, necessitating travel to Gloucester, MA.

Please note: All positions are highly competitive.

Thank you for your interest! Application materials and questions regarding the internship should be directed to:

Jenn Tackaberry - Intern Coordinator
Whale Center of New England
P.O. Box 159, Gloucester, MA 01930 USA
978-281-6351 (vox); 978-281-5666 (fax)
jenn at whalecenter.org

For more information on careers in marine science and other internships, contact the Society of Marine Mammalogy or the Sea Grant Marine Science Careers page.