FWRI Steidinger Scholar Intern, Crocodilian Research - Gainesville

The Steidinger Scholars, launched in 2023, celebrates the life and impact of Dr. Karen Steidinger, a pioneering scientist harmful algal bloom research and a formative leader in the history of FWC’s Fish and Wildlife Research Institute (FWRI). Her groundbreaking work is recognized worldwide, and the organism that causes red tides in Florida, Karenia brevis, is named in her honor. Just as Karen mentored generations of scientists, the program continues her legacy by creating opportunities for future scientists.

The goal of the Steidinger Scholars program is to inspire students to explore careers in fisheries and wildlife research through experiential learning. Successful applicants participate in 3-month long part- to full-time paid internships mentored by FWRI scientists. Interns work on a variety of projects that inform the protection, conservation, and management of Florida’s fish and wildlife resources.

The program is open to all recent high school graduates or new college students (years 1-2) of all genders from all backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. Successful candidates will have the ability to work in a team environment, adapt to changing work environments and priorities, and work in a range of settings including office, laboratory and outdoors in all weather conditions. 

Duties/tasks are position specific to the opportunity (see below) but include:

• Direct project activities such as training in and assisting with field and laboratory duties to ongoing research and management projects and programs.
• Shadowing staff and researchers in a variety of research areas.
• Participating in training, workshops, and other education and career development planning activities.
• Presenting on the experience.

Qualifications:

• A recent or expected high school graduate, or 1-2 year college student; must be 18 years of age or older by the start of the internship
• Willingness to learn
• Good interpersonal and organizational skills
• Good written and oral communication
• A passion for and interest in science. Prior learning or experience is not required
• Must be eligible to work in the U.S. including having a valid social security card

Women and students from historically underrepresented racial and ethnic groups are encouraged to apply.

Wildlife Research, Crocodilian Research and Management - Gainesville 

Opportunity #: FWRI SS-SU26-03

This opportunity is for a highly motivated individual to aid the FWC Crocodilian Research Team with nighttime spotlight alligator surveys. Surveys are conducted during the Spring (May 1st to June 15th) and Summer (July 1st to August 14th) field seasons. Interns will be required to travel around the state to different waterbodies (lakes, rivers, and man-made impoundments) to assist our wildlife biologists’ alligator surveys as data recorder from an airboat or outboard motored boat. During a typical survey night, interns would assist with prepping the vessel for launch, recording data correctly into a tablet form as the vessel operator gives alligator size and count data over the communications headset, and safely unloading the boat and storing field equipment after the surveys. A typical work week involves surveys Monday to Thursday nights, usually from around 7:30 PM until ~ 1 AM, excluding the drive back to the hotel or office. When not conducting surveys, participants will work towards earning their Florida boaters card, CPR & First Aid certification through the American Red Cross, and complete agency training for Watercraft & Trailering Safely. Interns will also assist with and learn about equipment maintenance and safety.

*This position often requires late nights and a flexible schedule that is dependent on the changing weather and unpredictable field conditions, and a valid driver license.

Tasks/Position Requirements: The primary responsibilities will be assisting with nighttime alligator surveys in the field, including but not limited to:

• Travel to and conduct surveys in various freshwater bodies throughout the state
• Record survey data 2-3 days per week
• Prepare vessels for launch
• Maintain and safely store field equipment

Successful candidates should:

• Have an interest in Florida’s crocodilians, wetlands, and wildlife research and management
• Hold a valid Driver’s License and clean driving record
• Be comfortable working in remote locations at night, often in adverse conditions (high heat and humidity, flying and biting insects, or poor weather conditions should they arise)
• Be comfortable lifting up to 50 lbs of gear or equipment
• Be comfortable using a tablet to record data accurately as it is called out

Dates: May 1 (preferred) – August 15

Hours: Part-time opportunity (average 30hrs per week Monday to Thursday; shifting schedule for on-site training during days and surveys during evenings typically ending around 1-2AM)

Supervisor: TBA

Location: Gainesville, Florida 

Housing is not provided.

College credit is possible. Candidates are responsible for checking with your department advisor at your home institution.