[SEMCO] Waquoit Bay Reserve Seeks Summer Research Intern

[Tompkins, Laurie (DCR)]

Research Internship (unpaid)
Summer 2015

The Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (WBNERR) in Falmouth, MA (Cape Cod) is one of 28 NERRs around the country whose mission is to promote stewardship of coastal ecosystems through research, education, and outreach. As part of our mission we monitor a number of biological and abiotic parameters: water quality and nutrients, coastal erosion, groundwater, various fish and bird populations, and plant community composition. The Reserve strives to provide interns with a wide variety of experiences that can benefit them in pursuing future employment or education. We provide a dynamic atmosphere interacting with staff and visiting scientists located at a historic estate overlooking Waquoit Bay.

WBNERR seeks a research intern with a background in biology, chemistry, or environmental science. The candidate should be willing and able to help with field and laboratory work.

The summer projects include, but are not limited to: 1) analyzing local water samples in the lab; 2) collecting continuous water quality measurements using automatic data loggers in the field; 3) monitoring salt marsh elevation and vegetation at our NERRS Sentinel Site to track climate change impacts; and 4) managing biomonitoring datasets and conducting preliminary analyses (as needed).

Laboratory Duties and Tasks:

*       Filter water samples.

*       Process turbidity/water clarity samples.

*       Acid-wash dishware.

*       Calibrate handheld field equipment.

Field/Data Duties and Tasks:

*       Identify salt marsh plants and collect basic stem height and density measurements.

*       Upload/download of data on/off of data logger instruments.

*       Conduct elevation surveys with Real Time Kinematic GPS device or optic level.

*       Lift heavy (30-50 lbs) field equipment.

*       Handle Trimble GPS unit.

*       Assist with boat handling.

*       Enter data and run preliminary analyses (as needed).

Preferred qualifications: Undergraduate coursework in biological, environmental, or marine science (with lab component); experience with Microsoft Office software; previous experience with GPS devices highly desirable; boat experience highly desirable (must be comfortable on boats); ability to work independently (with oversight) and as part of a team; a strong desire to work outside in sometimes adverse weather conditions for long periods.

Desired timeframe: 12 weeks June through August, with extensions on either end possible (part-time). Preferred hours are 9am-5pm, 2-3 days per week. Dormitory housing on-site may be available.

To apply: Please e-mail resume and cover letter to Ms. Jordan Mora, Waquoit Bay NERR Research Associate, at jordan.mora at state.ma.us<mailto:jordan.mora at state.ma.us>. For questions, call (508) 457-0495 x 128.


Laurie Tompkins
Event Coordinator
Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve
P.O. Box 3092
Waquoit, MA 02536
Tel. 508-457-0495 x108
Fax 617-727-5537
www.waquoitbayreserve.org<http://www.waquoitbayreserve.org/>

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