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 interns to collaborate with our research scientists investigating techniques for spawning marine invertebrates (sea cucumbers and scallops) and rearing their larvae and juveniles.
Interns based at our Mission Bay facility will focus on the following tasks:
• Microalgae cultivation: interns will learn how to grow microalgae cultures and maintain them under different conditions to optimize growth.
• Invertebrate broodstock husbandry and maintenance: interns will assist in the care of adult marine animals, including feeding and monitoring health, and maintaining their living spaces.
• Invertebrate broodstock spawning: interns will assist in the invertebrate broodstock spawning induction trials, and learn artificially fertilizing techniques for marine invertebrates.
• Invertebrate larval rearing: interns will work on rearing and caring for larvae of invertebrates (sea cucumbers, scallops, etc.), and learn techniques for monitoring growth and development.
• Growth monitoring: interns will be involved in tracking the growth and development of different marine species and will learn to use tools such as microscopes and data analysis software to document their findings.
Core Responsibilities
The core responsibilities of the intern will include working collaboratively with research scientists to investigate and develop techniques for cultivating microalgae, conditioning marine invertebrate broodstock, rearing marine invertebrate larvae and juveniles. This will involve daily tasks such as cultivation, husbandry, maintenance, feeding, and growth monitoring of microalgae, invertebrate larvae, and juveniles. 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 at an accredited college or university or hold an associate or bachelor’s degree.
• Must submit a short letter of interest describing your previous experience and how this internship aligns with student’s career goals
• Must submit a resume of courses and/or experience related to position applying for, or unofficial transcript
• Proof of COVID-19 vaccination
• Daily activities will vary but will include both outdoor and indoor environments that can be wet and damp, with moderate noise levels.
• 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
• Extensive coursework or a degree in the biological sciences (or related field).
• Basic understanding of chemistry, and experience working with animals.
• Strong interest in and awareness of animal husbandry and marine science/ecology
• Able to team lift up to 50 pounds with accommodations.
• Ability to multi-task 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
Or mail it to:
Human Resources Department Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute
2595 Ingraham Street San Diego, CA 92109