Intern ResearcherAt — Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, Opportunities For All Program

-Lab work (Animal husbandry, water quality, biological assays, dissections) -Field work (shark tagging, water quality) -Science outreach -Science communication

Tasks:

Laboratory Work
Interns will be actively involved in various lab-based activities, ensuring the well-being of marine organisms and collecting vital data. Tasks include:

Animal Husbandry: Daily care for marine specimens, including feeding, tank cleaning, monitoring health, and maintaining accurate records.
Water Quality Testing: Conducting regular tests on water samples using various lab instruments to monitor parameters like pH, salinity, temperature, and nutrient levels.
Biological Assays: Assisting with specific laboratory procedures such as preparing samples for genetic analysis, performing basic enzyme tests, or microscopic examinations.
Dissections: Participating in the dissection of marine specimens for research purposes, focusing on anatomical identification and sample collection.
Field Work
A significant portion of the internship involves hands-on data collection in natural marine environments. Tasks include:

Shark Tagging: Assisting experienced researchers with the safe and ethical capture, tagging, and release of sharks. This involves boat-based operations, data recording, and precise application of tracking devices.
Field Water Quality: Collecting water samples and taking in-situ measurements of environmental parameters (e.g., dissolved oxygen, temperature, depth) using specialized field equipment.
Science Outreach & Communication
Interns will play a crucial role in sharing scientific knowledge with the public and broader scientific community. Tasks include:

Educational Programs: Developing and delivering engaging presentations or activities for school groups, community organizations, or visitors to foster an understanding of marine ecosystems and conservation.
Content Creation: Assisting with the creation of informative and engaging content for various platforms, such as social media posts, website articles, or educational brochures, to communicate research findings and conservation messages effectively. This may involve writing, photography, or basic graphic design.

Training:

Training Provided During Placement:
Interns will receive comprehensive, hands-on training across all facets of marine science research, conservation, and outreach, guided by experienced professionals. The training will be practical, focusing on the skills necessary for real-world application in both laboratory and field settings.

1. Laboratory Skills Training:

Animal Husbandry: Interns will be directly trained in the daily routines of animal care, including feeding protocols, habitat cleaning and maintenance, observation of health indicators, and proper handling techniques for various marine organisms. This will involve shadowing experienced staff, then performing tasks under supervision until proficiency is achieved.
Water Quality Analysis: Detailed instruction will be given on the use and calibration of laboratory equipment for measuring parameters like pH, salinity, temperature, dissolved oxygen, ammonia, and nitrates. Training will cover correct sample collection, analytical procedures, data recording, and initial interpretation of results.
Biological Assays: Interns will learn specific protocols for preparing samples and conducting various biological assays relevant to the research (e.g., preparing DNA samples for PCR, running basic enzyme assays, or preparing slides for microscopy). Emphasis will be placed on sterile technique, precision, and safety.
Dissections: Students will receive guidance on ethical and safe dissection techniques, focusing on the systematic identification of anatomical structures. Training will cover proper specimen handling, tool usage, and data collection during dissections.
2. Field Work Training:

Shark Tagging: Extensive training will be provided on safe boat operation procedures (if applicable and authorized), ethical methods for attracting and handling sharks, proper application of various tag types (conventional, acoustic, satellite), and precise collection of morphometric data and biological samples in dynamic field conditions. Safety protocols for working with large marine animals will be paramount and rigorously enforced.
Field Water Quality: Interns will be trained in the deployment and operation of portable field instruments for measuring water quality parameters in natural environments. This includes learning proper sampling locations, data logging techniques, and basic troubleshooting of equipment in the field.
3. Science Communication & Outreach Training:

Public Engagement Skills: Interns will be coached on how to translate complex scientific information into engaging and understandable language for diverse audiences, including students and the general public. This may involve workshops on presentation skills, developing educational materials, and practicing delivery for different age groups.
Content Creation: Training will cover the development of engaging content for various outreach platforms, including social media posts, public presentations, and informational brochures. This could involve learning about effective visual communication and storytelling for science.
Communication Strategies: Interns will learn about effective strategies for disseminating scientific findings and conservation messages to wider audiences, understanding the role of different media.
4. Data Management & Professionalism:

Data Recording: Rigorous training will be provided on accurate and organized data collection, logging, and initial data entry, emphasizing the importance of precision and detail in scientific research.
Safety Protocols: Comprehensive safety briefings and ongoing training will be provided for all lab and field activities, including chemical handling, equipment safety, and emergency procedures.
Teamwork & Collaboration: Interns will be integrated into the research team, receiving guidance on effective collaboration, communication within a scientific setting, and contributing to shared goals.
Throughout the placement, interns will work closely with mentors and staff, receiving direct supervision, constructive feedback, and opportunities for independent practice as their skills develop.

Learning Outcome:

Demonstrate proficiency in the daily care and maintenance of marine organisms in a laboratory or aquaculture setting
Interpret water quality data and identify potential issues affecting aquatic health.
Understand the principles behind common biological assays and their applications.
Identify and describe major anatomical structures and their functions.