Penn State University - University Park, PA
posted 4 days ago
About the position
Pennsylvania Sea Grant is excited to offer paid summer internship opportunities for undergraduate students seeking to gain experience in the areas of communications, education, outreach, and research. The purpose of the internships is to contribute to an ocean and Great Lakes workforce that understands technical and social challenges facing coastal communities as well as the natural environment. The experience will help prepare undergraduate students from all backgrounds for graduate school and careers in science, policy, management, and outreach focused on oceans, Great Lakes, and watersheds. The internships are offered in Pennsylvania as part of the Community Engaged Internship (CEI) program, which is offered by Sea Grant programs across the country. The Pennsylvania Sea Grant program encourages applications from students with unique lived experiences, skills, abilities, and interests, with the intention of strengthening Pennsylvania Sea Grant capacity to enhance the practical use and conservation of natural resources for a healthy environment, resilient communities, and strong, sustainable economies.
Responsibilities
- Collect specimens in the field using various techniques (nets, traps, hand capture).
- Prepare and label specimens according to standard museum protocols.
- Use taxonomic keys to identify specimens to the lowest level practicable.
- Enter specimen data into museum database.
- Check specimens and storage areas for pests and condition.
- Assist with maintenance of archival materials.
- Prepare specimens for educational displays.
- Assist other collectors with field collections, e.g., light trapping at night, bait trapping, vertebrate collection, etc.
- Maintain live specimens for display.
- Assist with education programming and events, e.g., Discover Presque Isle.
Requirements
- Undergraduate students currently enrolled in a U.S. institution of higher learning.
- U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or authorized to work in the United States without restriction.
- Strong writing and organizational skills.
- Ability to work independently and accurately synthesize and deliver information.
- Valid driver's license and own transportation.
Nice-to-haves
- Interest in marine, Great Lakes, watershed science, policy, management, education, or outreach.
- Willingness to work occasional weekends or evenings.
Benefits
- Paid internship at $17 per hour.
- Expected to work up to 40 hours per week for 8-9 weeks, from June into August.
- Opportunity to participate in Pennsylvania Sea Grant staff meetings and professional development.
