American Lobster Aquaculture Intern (Fall 2019)
Apply now for: Fall 2019
Time commitment: At least TWO Full Days Per Week (9:00am - 5:00pm)
Summary:
American lobsters are cultural icons and one of the most important fisheries in New England. But did you know that it takes a lobster 7 years to become 1 pound (the legal harvest size)?
At the New England Aquarium’s Lobster Research and Rearing Facility (LRRF), larval and juvenile lobsters are raised in a small hatchery and then used in research studies, which have focused on growth, nutrition, and disease. Volunteers and interns care for the hundreds of juvenile lobsters within the facility and work under the supervision of the Assistant Scientist and Laboratory Operations Manager for the LRRF and John H. Prescott Marine Laboratory. Volunteers and interns should have an interest in marine animals and marine science and must be able to conduct routine assignments and work independently.
Duties/Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Daily tasks include observing, recording data, and feeding the lobsters in the research collection
- Collecting and counting newly hatched larvae
- Changing filters
- Cleaning tanks
- Opportunities to become a more active participant in ongoing research may become available, but are subject to current progress, research scope, and supervisor discretion
- Attend two professional development lunches with the Volunteer Programs and Internships Office
Skills/Qualifications:
- Strong interest in working with animals in a research environment. Prior lobster experience is not necessary
- Must be comfortable working in a wet laboratory environment and willing to get dirty
- Must have basic computer skills and be able to follow written protocols and work independently
- Good attention to detail is essential
Organizational Description:
The New England Aquarium’s mission is to protect the blue planet through hands-on programs, live animal and interactive exhibits, public lectures and forums, and research and conservation projects.
This mission is fulfilled through exhibits and education, conservation, and research programs. Exhibits showcase the diversity, importance, and beauty of aquatic life and habitats and highlight critical aquatic conservation issues. Programs emphasize species, habitats and issues critical to New England. The Aquarium is also a pioneer in marine animal rescue and a leading ocean conservation organization with research scientists working around the globe.
The New England Aquarium serves as a responsive community resource that attracts and involves the broadest possible audience, seeks a culturally diverse staff and governing board that reflect our community, adheres to the highest standards of animal stewardship, and is committed to delivering the highest quality visitor experience in a welcoming and enjoyable manner that evokes wonder, curiosity, understanding, care, and action.
Department Description:
The Lobster Research and Rearing Facility is rooted in the New England Aquarium’s mission, particularly in the research, exhibit, and education programs. The LRRF conducts scientific research, provides lobsters for exhibits and education programs, and assists in educating the public about these fascinating animals. New England is known for its lobsters and bringing understanding, awareness, and wonder about these native animals, their habitat, and their future epitomizes the Aquarium’s mission.