Summer 2020 UNDERGRADUATE COASTAL ECOLOGY INTERNSHIP

Old Woman Creek National Estuarine Research Reserve (OWC) and the Friends of Old Woman Creek are offering a PAID Coastal Ecology Undergraduate Internship during summer 2020. The internship is expected to last approximately 11 weeks, from mid- to late May – August (start and end dates are somewhat flexible). Located in Huron, Ohio, on the south-central shore of Lake Erie, Old Woman Creek is one of the state's few remaining examples of a natural estuary. OWC is part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Estuarine Research Reserve System, a network of 29 coastal reserves whose mission is to address state and regional coastal management needs through research, education, and stewardship.

The Coastal Ecology intern will assist OWC staff with coastal wetland and terrestrial monitoring primarily related to animal populations and communities, but also water quality, weather, and plants. Responsibilities include a combination of field, laboratory, and computer work, such as observing or collecting organisms, identifying organisms, recording environmental conditions, data entry and analysis, and creation of outreach products. The intern will have the opportunity to develop and pursue an independent project and be a member of a cohort of summer interns involved in OWC research, education, and stewardship programs. The intern will interact with citizen science volunteers and participate in other program areas.

Desired qualifications include: progress toward a Bachelor degree in biology, ecology, natural resources, or a related subject; the ability to identifying organism; valid driver’s license; familiarity with using water quality meters; familiarity with Microsoft Excel; an understanding of basic freshwater and coastal ecology.

All applicants must be able to swim; have some experience using self-powered boats; be able to lift at least 35 pounds; be tolerant of working in poor conditions (e.g., weather, biting insects, poison ivy).

Interns will earn a $5000 stipend, paid incrementally throughout the summer. Free onsite housing in shared accommodations may be available.

To apply: Submit electronic copies of the following application materials to Emily Kuzmick at emily.kuzmick@dnr.state.oh.us by January 24: (1) a cover letter of interest that describes your interest in, qualifications for, and anticipated benefits from the internship; (2) current CV/resume; and (3) contact information for 3 references. Interested students can contact Emily by email or phone (567.623.4868) with any questions.