Marine Mammal & Sea Turtle Necropsy Intern

Apply now for: Summer 2024

*Fall applications will be available in April. Spring and Winter applications will be available in August.

Time commitment: 

Winter: 125 hours minimum

Spring: 12-16 Weeks. At Least Three Full Days (8 AM - 6 PM)


Summary:

The New England Aquarium is currently seeking a Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Necropsy Intern to assist in the daily operations of the Marine Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation Department and focus on tasks that relate to post-mortem exams of stranded marine mammals and sea turtles. The ideal candidate will be highly-motivated, able to work independently, meticulous about detail, and have an interest in marine animal pathology. This position will report to the Necropsy Specialist and work occasionally with the larger Rescue and Rehab team of volunteers and staff. 



Duties/Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: 

• Assist in post-mortem exams of stranded marine animals in the lab and in the field. This includes tissue sample collection, report writing, and photography
• Basic data collection of dead stranded marine mammals in the field
• Cleaning and maintenance of laboratory environment
• Frozen and fixed tissue sample inventory and management
• Data management and record keeping
• Interns may also have the opportunity to assist with live animal care in the sea turtle hospital and with live animal stranding response
• Interns may have the opportunity to assist in research projects

Skills/Qualifications: 
 

• Must be at least 18 years of age
• Must be able to handle the sight of blood and acrid smells
• Must be able to perform significant cleaning tasks daily
• This position requires physical tasks; Applicant must be able to lift and carry 50 lbs
• Must have strong attention to detail
• Must be proficient in a data management program (i.e. excel, access or similar)
• Must be able to work independently as well as with a team
• Strong organizational skills are a must
• Attend five intern events with the Volunteer Programs and Internships Office

This position is not located in Boston and is at our Animal Care Center located along the Fore River in Quincy. Transportation to this facility is easiest by car but one can also reach the facility by public transportation. Public transportation requires taking the Redline to Quincy Center, transferring to bus, and walking about 5 minutes.


Organizational Description:

The New England Aquarium is a catalyst for global change through public engagement and education, commitment to marine animal conservation, innovative scientific research, and effective advocacy for a vital and vibrant ocean.

Department Description:

Established in 1968, the Marine Animal Rescue Team has responded to thousands of calls providing medical treatment to sick and injured whales, dolphins, porpoise, seals and sea turtles throughout the New England coastal region. The rescue team is also committed to advancing stranding science through post-mortem investigation into the cause of the strandings and/or disease of local marine animal populations.


To Apply:

Please register an account here and click "Submit an Application." If you already have an account, please login and click "Submit an Application."

Questions?

Visit: Frequently Asked Questions

E-mail: intern@neaq.org



Applications should be submitted by*:
 

For details about priority deadlines, please click here 
 

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