The Alabama Marine Mammal Stranding Network (ALMMSN) located at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab (DISL) in Dauphin Island, AL, is recruiting a highly motivated intern to assist with marine mammal stranding response in coastal Alabama waters. ALMMSN is a cooperative regional stranding network partner and works in conjunction with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Marine Fisheries Service and the US Fish and Wildlife Service to respond to dolphin, whale, and manatee strandings. Our primary goal is to enhance reporting and response efforts for marine mammal strandings to ensure collection of consistent, high-quality data that are used to evaluate causes of strandings and/or death. The DISL’s mission is to become a center for transformative U.S. oceanic and coastal research and education. This intern will gain useful knowledge, skills, and experience in the fields of marine biology, marine mammalogy, and marine mammal stranding response.

Internship Dates: 3 months (option to extend depending on funds and performance); flexible start early 2025

Daily Duties Include: Field stranding response, data collection, data management, participation in necropsy events, sample handling, report writing, and equipment/lab maintenance/cleaning. Intern will also have the opportunity to complete an independent research project based on relevant interests, culminating in a presentation.

Qualifications:

• Student or recent graduate (0-2 years) of a biology/marine biology, marine science, oceanography, zoology or related program;
• Interest in marine mammal biology, physiology and anatomy;
• Interest in research;
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record;
• 18 years or older;
• Physically fit, able to lift at least 50 lbs, drag at least 100 lbs, and a strong swimmer;
• Ability to endure unpleasant field conditions including temperatures between 30°F-100°F, rain, humidity and biting insects;
• Ability to work 35 hours per week, including weekends, nights and holidays as needed;
• Experience with scientific writing is a plus;
• Knowledge of digital SLR cameras and lenses is a plus.

This internship is a paid position ($12-$15/hour) expected to work 35 hrs/week (including nights and holidays as necessary for fieldwork). This is a physically demanding position that may involve long days in a variety of weather conditions. Intern is responsible for providing their own housing and transport to DISL. Assistance finding housing can be provided. Applicant must be eligible to legally reside in the U.S. for the duration of the internship period. International applicants are welcome to apply, however, we are unable to sponsor or take over the sponsorship of an employment VISA. 

DISL is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from a diverse pool of prospective interns without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic or any other identity information. DISL and ALMMSN recognize that a diversity of perspectives, lived experiences, ideas, and passions allows us to better meet our goal of ocean-literate communities in Alabama and that equity, diversity, and inclusion are fundamental to achieving our mission. It is the intent of the ALMMSN to be fair and impartial in all of its relations and to recognize and respect the individual. More information about ALMMSN and the DISL Marine Mammal Research Program can be found at https://www.disl.edu/research/marine-mammal-research-program or by contacting ALMMSN at almmsn@disl.org.