Marine Debris Internship

The Marine Debris Internship is an opportunity to dive deep into MAS programs and play an integral role in their planning and implementation. It will allow the intern to understand the tremendous breadth of topics MAS specialists work in, including coastal hazards and preparedness, coastal ecology, environmental education, fisheries, social science, and climate change, and the required skills to become an effective extension-educator.

The intern will gain hands-on experiences working alongside MAS specialists and University of Delaware scientists to help collect, manage, and communicate data on the Mid-Atlantic region’s marine debris prevention priorities. The intern will investigate derelict fishing gear prevention policies, perform stakeholder analyses, and assist in advancing marine debris prevention technologies through:

• Researching derelict crab pot prevention policies and programs nationwide
• Conducting interviews within Delaware’s recreational blue crab fishery
• Assessing and field-testing novel technologies in derelict gear prevention (e.g. crab pots, fish pots, acoustic receivers, etc.).
• Exposure to current derelict fishing gear removal technologies
• Building their professional network and marine debris knowledge

The intern may also work on a host of Delaware Sea Grant projects to include our submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) restoration projects, coastal stewardship projects, and education programs for K-12 students and teachers, including delivering public presentations.

Qualifications and Requirements:
A current or recently graduated undergraduate or graduate student studying natural resources, marine science, earth science, and/or science education is preferred, but all applications will be considered. Experience with or interest in science outreach/education/communication (including public speaking), community engagement, and experimental design are preferred. The intern must be willing to work on boats, lift heavy gear, and potentially get wet/muddy.

Internship Logistics:
This is a paid internship. The internship will begin June 3, 2024, and run for 10 weeks. The intern will typically work at least 20 hours per week and up to 29 hours per week, and will be in a hybrid format, where some in-person work will be required at the UD Hugh R. Sharp Campus in Lewes, Delaware or at designated Delaware field sites, and some work can be accomplished virtually. Local and statewide travel, outside of daily commute, may be required and will be reimbursed. Required field gear will be provided if the intern does not have their own.

Application Process:
Interested parties should send a cover letter and resume to Brittany Haywood at haywoobl@udel.edu by COB March 18, 2024. Selected candidates may be asked to provide additional application materials and participate in a phone/video interview.

For more information about Delaware Sea Grant and the Marine Advisory Service, contact Brittany Haywood (haywoobl@udel.edu) with specific questions.