Intern, Restorative Aquaculture

Description

Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute (HSWRI) is a non-profit marine science research organization that conducts research related to its mission of promoting ocean conservation and the sustainable use of marine resources. Founded in 1963, HSWRI operates two research facilities in California: one in San Diego's Mission Bay and the other in Carlsbad, in addition to a facility in Melbourne Beach, Florida. The Institute's research covers a wide range of topics, including marine mammal behavior, physiology, and health, as well as the development of innovative aquaculture techniques for cultivating marine plants and animals. HSWRI's research also focuses on the study of oceanographic processes and the impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems. The goal of HSWRI's research is to inform policy decisions and promote sustainable management of the ocean's resources. HSWRI provides educational opportunities and internships to students and researchers seeking to gain hands-on experience in marine science and conservation. 

Join Our Team

HSWRI’s internship program offers STEM learning, skill development, and research experience for college and graduate students. Interns collaborate with leading researchers in marine conservation, sustainability, and aquaculture to tackle challenges in restorative aquaculture, sustainable seafood, and ocean and animal health. Their contributions support HSWRI's mission to protect and conserve marine life. HSWRI values diversity and promotes an inclusive workplace that welcomes applicants from all backgrounds, including people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, veterans, and persons with disabilities.

Job Summary

Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute (HSWRI) is seeking an intern to collaborate with our research scientists investigating techniques for culturing marine plants and animals. 

Based at our Carlsbad facility, the intern will focus on the following tasks:

• Seaweed cultivation: learn how to cultivate different species of seaweed, including techniques for seeding, transplanting, and harvesting.
• Animal husbandry: assist in the care of marine animals, including feeding and monitoring health, and maintaining their living spaces.
• Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA): work on optimizing the integration of fish, invertebrates, and seaweeds in a multi-trophic aquaculture system, with the aim of creating a sustainable closed-loop ecosystem.

Core Responsibilities

The core responsibilities of the intern will include working collaboratively with research scientists to investigate and develop techniques for culturing marine plants and animals. This will involve daily tasks such as cultivation, husbandry, maintenance, and growth monitoring of microalgae, seaweed, fish, and invertebrates. Additionally, the intern may assist with research projects, animal health assessments, data entry, and other tasks as assigned. Successful applicants will have strong communication skills, be able to work independently and in a team environment and be committed to the mission of HSWRI.

Skills/Knowledge/Ability/Experience or Education 

Required

• At least 18 years of age
• Must be a current student (advanced undergraduate) at an accredited college or university, or hold an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in biology or marine science 
• Must submit a short letter of interest describing your previous experience and how this internship aligns with the student’s career goals
• Must submit a resume of courses and/or experience related to the position applying for, or an unofficial transcript 
• Project task assignments may include weekends and holidays as assigned
• Support a diverse, equitable, and inclusive work environment where all staff, volunteers, and guests are respected and valued. 

Desired 

• Strong interest in and awareness of animal husbandry and marine science/ecology
• Daily activities will vary, but will include both outdoor and indoor environments that can be wet and damp, with moderate noise levels. 
• Able to lift to 50 pounds with or without accommodations 
• Ability to multitask and attention to detail 
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint

Application Procedure

If you are interested in applying for an internship with Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute, please submit the following items to hr@hswri.org:

• Brief letter of interest describing your previous experience and how this internship aligns with student’s career goals
• Resume of courses and/or experience related to position applying for, or unofficial transcript