Blue Crab Survey Internship Opportunity: Deadline January 31, 2024

January 3, 2024 Undergraduate internships

Internship Opportunity: Blue Crab Survey at the Darling Marine Center

Are you interested in marine ecology and looking to learn more about field science and invasive species? The Brady Lab, Maine’s Center for sustainable coastal resources, at UMaine’s Darling Marine Center is recruiting an undergraduate summer intern to join our team as a field scientist on our pilot Invasive Blue Crab Callinectes sapidus Survey in the Upper Damariscotta River. This position offers a unique chance to contribute to novel ongoing research aimed at understanding and managing the invasive blue crab population in the Damariscotta River, a hub for Maine’s aquaculture industry.

Key Responsibilities:

  1. Field Surveys: Conduct day-to-day activity on field surveys focused on the invasive blue crab population in the Damariscotta River. Surveys will be conducted from DMC skiffs using blue crab traps.
  1. Data Collection and Analysis: Collect, record and transcribe data on survey catch in each trap. Learn to organize data and contribute to the analysis of invasive blue crab trapping dynamics.
  1. Environmental Monitoring: Assist in monitoring environmental parameters that may influence blue crab behavior and distribution. Using temperature sensors monitor and compare catch and temperature. Collect chlorophyll data from the DMC dock and perform chlorophyll extraction and analysis.
  1. Collaboration: Work closely with a team of graduate researchers, research scientists and faculty at the Darling Marine Center. Engage in collaborative discussions to enhance your understanding of marine ecology and fisheries management.

Qualifications:

  • Current enrollment in a relevant undergraduate program (e.g., marine biology, environmental science, biology).
  • Ability to work with animals outdoors in various weather conditions and on boats (previous operation experience is a plus).
  • Attention to detail and organizational skills.
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills.
  • Ready to learn new things.

Benefits:

  • Gain hands-on experience in the characterization of invasive species populations.
  • Develop field science skills operating boats, hauling survey gear, handling animals and recording data.
  • Develop practical skills in data collection and organization, statistical analysis and computer programming, and environmental monitoring.
  • Develop laboratory skills performing chlorophyll extraction and analysis.
  • Contribute to meaningful research that will directly inform fisheries for invasive species management.

Logistics:

Duration: 

This internship position is available for Mid-May – Mid-August 2024 with the potential to extend into the Fall 2024 semester for UMaine Semester-by-the-Sea students. 

Location:

Darling Marine Center, Walpole, Maine, UMaine’s Marine Science campus. Housing will be provided contingent on availability.  

Compensation: 

$15.80 / hour; 40 hours per week.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should submit a resume, unofficial transcript, a short cover letter, and a writing sample (coursework works) to Everett Rzeszowski, everett.rzeszowski@maine.edu. Please include “Blue Crab Population Internship Application” in the subject line.

Application Deadline: 

January 31, 2024

Start your next chapter by spending a summer on the Maine coast at the Darling Marine Center. Embark on a rewarding internship that addresses the ecological challenges posed by invasive blue crab populations. Contribute to cutting-edge research and gain valuable skills for your future career in marine sciences.