The UF/IFAS NCBS summer internship program is intended to give undergraduate students at UF an opportunity for real-world, paid experience in research and/or extension activities. Selected students will work alongside practicing researchers and natural resource managers.

Dr. Marc Hensel (UF/NCBS) seeks an intern to work on a wide variety of projects related to coastal ecology in the nearshore environments of the Gulf of Mexico, including the Suwannee River. Projects and responsibilities will vary but include field sampling of fishes and invertebrates; quantitative assessments of environmental parameters and habitats such as seagrass, oyster, and mangroves; laboratory experiments; and other day-to-day tasks including sample identification, sample processing, data entry, and assisting other staff as needed. The selected intern will work with a variety of lab personnel including the technicians and graduate students. Field work will be performed on small boats, and interns will be required to participate heavily in field-based activities in potentially arduous conditions. The position is located at the Nature Coast Biological Station, and carpooling opportunities may be available.

Interns will participate in an orientation meeting with NCBS staff and hosts and a summer wrap-up event where interns will summarize their experiences with a short presentation.

Eligibility

• Currently enrolled University of Florida undergraduate student
• The applicant must have reliable transportation and valid driver’s license as well as an interest in community ecology and the ability to work both collaboratively and independently.
• Relevant coursework in ecology/marine biology and previous experience with small watercraft is preferred, but not required.