INTERNSHIP Sea Turtle Research

During the course of this internship the participant will gain experience and hands-on training in the field of sea turtle research. This position is challenging and requires participants be enthusiastic self-motivated hard-working and dedicated to animal return the Intern will receive in-depth hands-on training in all aspects of sea turtle nesting and conservation. Interns will learn how to use ATVs and operate boats as well as the intricacies of working at night on a barrier island. Furthermore interns will not only gain confidence working with endangered and threatened sea turtle species but also develop confidence and capability as a scientist working in the field of wildlife conservation.

Essential Duties

Will monitor beaches on Keewaydin Island and the City of Naples between Doctors Pass and Gordon Pass for sea turtle nesting activity.

Cage nests and tag nesting turtles on the southern four miles of Keewaydin Island.

Patrol on an ATV to look for nesting sea turtles (nights and / or days).

Cage nests to prevent depredation by raccoons.

Tag nesting females and accurately record data on carapace dimensions and nest locations.

Monitor nest-hatching success by excavating nests and counting hatched and un-hatched eggs.

Safely operate ATV and a motorboat; maintain the ATVs a generator and a motorboat by changing the oil on a regularly scheduled basis fix flat tires make sure gasoline is on the island to fuel the generator and ATVs and prepare the equipment for the next evening after each nights field work is completed.

Keep the field station clean during the course of the summer.

Enter research information in computer systems database.

Relate to the public in a cheerful positive manner when asked questions about sea turtles while patrolling the beaches.

Education and / or experience : Applicant must be at least a college senior in one of the biological or environmental sciences with BS or BA preferred.

Qualifications / Work Environment

Applicants must complete the application process including submitting the Conservancy intern application cover letter resume two letters of recommendation and college transcripts.

Interest in field biology and willingness to work under adverse field conditions at night.

Working knowledge of the care and operation of ATVs motorboats and small engines an asset.

Must possess a valid drivers license and clean driving record.

The Conservancy is a drug free and smoke free equal opportunity workplace.

$300 bi-weekly cost of living stipend and dorm accommodation including laundry provided.

Required Experience :

Intern

Key Skills

Laboratory Experience,Spss,Data Collection,DNA Isolation,Stata,Biochemistry,Qualitative Research Interviewing,Research Experience,Statistical Software,Molecular Biology,Research Laboratory Experience,Western Blot

Employment Type : Intern

Experience : years

Vacancy : 1