The Wahle Lab

Summer 2009 - Lobster and Scallop Ecology

   Interested undergraduates and recent graduates are invited to apply for summer internships in subtidal benthic ecology research.  The number of internships will depend on the availability of funding. Internships will begin as early as mid-May and will likely extend through November 2009.  We especially encourage students interested in pursuing a career in marine science, ecology, or fisheries who are available into the fall.  Students returning to school in the fall should also consider applying to Bigelow’s NSF-supported REU Program.   http://www.bigelow.org/education/REU/.

Two projects supported by NOAA will be under way during the summer of 2009.  We will be continuing a fisherman-scientist collaboration to evaluate the efficacy of genetic fingerprinting techniques to distinguish hatchery-reared from wild lobsters in population enhancement trials. This year also begins a new project on the spawning and fertilization dynamics of the giant sea scallop. 

Interns will spend much of their time in the field conducting underwater surveys and experiments and working with fishermen on their boats.  In the laboratory, interns will assist with experiments, sample processing, data entry and preliminary analysis.

Applicants must be SCUBA certified and provide their own equipment, except tanks. Divers can expect water temperatures ranging from 9-18°C in the Gulf of Maine, and sometimes low visibility. Dry-suits are not required, but are highly recommended, as field days will regularly consist of multiple dives in all weather conditions. Prior experience with outboard motor boats, computer spreadsheets and statistical software is desirable, but not required. This is an intensive field-based research program with long hours and VERY physically demanding work. Therefore, a commensurate level of physical fitness is expected. Work will be staged from Bigelow Laboratory http://www.bigelow.org/ in West Boothbay Harbor and the University of Maine's Darling Marine Center in Walpole. Interns are housed at the Darling Marine Center http://www.dmc.maine.edu/. Interns are provided a living stipend and dormitory housing.

Applications should include a completed questionnaire, resumé, academic transcripts (unofficial is acceptable), and two letters of recommendation. Questionnaires are available at www.bigelow.org. If you have any questions or problems, please contact Charlene Bergeron (see below).

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Send all material by ground mail to:

Charlene Bergeron Wahle Lab / Lobster Internship Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences
West Boothbay Harbor, Maine 04575

email: cbergeron@bigelow.org tel: 207 633 9670
fax: 207 633 9641

Review of applications begins in April, 2008. If not a US citizen please apply early.