Marine Research Intern

Marine Research Interns will learn about the marine conservation research of WCS’s New York Seascape Program. Interns will be introduced to the marine wildlife of the New York Bight and the conservation challenges they face; collaborate across multiple field research projects and be introduced to a variety of methods used by the New York Seascape team to monitor local marine wildlife. In addition, interns will be introduced to science-based marine management and policy as well as community and stakeholder engagement to understand how field research underpins and informs resource management and protection of marine species and their habitats.

Learning Outcomes

• Learn about New York’s marine biodiversity and monitoring methods used in the wild (e.g., environmental DNA (eDNA), tagging & telemetry).
• Construct, prepare, and use wildlife and environmental monitoring equipment.
• Properly capture and handle marine species currently being studied (e.g., eels, sharks).
• Collect, manage, and analyze field data for use in community engagement, conservation, and management.
• Collate and review published materials and help develop Seascape content (including social media).
• Support outreach activities targeting the public and other stakeholders.
• Be introduced to animal care within an aquarium setting.
• Attend partner planning meetings and workshops.

• Collaborate with the WCS Social Media team to develop content for the NY Seascape Program.

Qualification Requirements

• Must be a current college student (preferably majoring in biology, ecology, or related field).
• Comfortable in and around water and being on a boat.
• Ability to work independently and commute to field sites in Bronx and Westchester (WCS may cover extra transportation costs if needed).
• Able to lift at least 30 lbs.
• Must be eligible to work in the United States.
• Background check required if accepted (provided by WCS).
• Resume and cover letter are required for full consideration.

Salary

Stipend of $500–$750 depending on internship duration.

Duration & Schedule

• Mid/late May–August 2025; approximately 10–15 hours per week (weekly commitment may vary).
• Application Deadline: May 6, 2025 (applications reviewed on a rolling basis).
• To be fully considered for this role, all applicants must upload a resume & cover letter.