Kelp Forest Ecology Research Internship

About the Role

Monterey Bay Aquarium is seeking one enthusiastic and motivated individual for a Kelp Forest Ecology Research Internship. This internship will directly contribute to ongoing research focused on understanding the mechanisms of kelp forest recovery in California, aiming to inform climate-ready action and management planning. The research will be conducted primarily along the Monterey Peninsula and in Carmel Bay, California. Scuba diving is an essential function of this position. The intern is anticipated to spend approximately 70% of their time in the laboratory and 30% in the field.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory assays, including sea urchin dissections.
• Perform data entry and quality control.
• Support the organization and coordination of logistics for day-to-day field activities.
• Maintain a functioning laboratory and adhere to laboratory safe operating procedures.
• Maintain scientific sampling equipment used in the laboratory.
• Participate in scuba-based data collection at depths less than 70 feet.
• Contribute to the development of technical reports.
• A project-based report in the form of an oral presentation is required at the end of the internship.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Must have authorization to work in the US.
• At least 18 years of age.
• Current or recent student at an accredited college, university, tech, or trade school.
• Must be a student during the term immediately preceding the internship opportunity (not to exceed 1-year education gap).
• Must be in good academic standing.
• Six-month commitment of 3 full days each week (no weekends) for approximately 24 hours/week.
• Must have or obtain a valid California's driver's license within one month of starting the internship.
• Current First Aid, CPR, and Oxygen Administration certification/training.
• Minimum 60 logged dives in cold water.
• Experience diving in kelp forests is preferred.
• Experience diving from small boats is desired.
• Knowledge of kelp forest taxonomy and species identification, specifically marine invertebrates and algae.
• Applicants must provide a letter of reciprocity (LOR) from a participating AAUS institution certifying qualification as a Scientific Research Diver prior to employment.
• Able to work in a team environment, as well as independently without direct supervision.
• Strong interpersonal communication and decision-making skills.
• Comfortable in both a laboratory environment and with field-research that may include prolonged exposure to cold water and frequently adverse sea conditions.
• Willingness to spend up to 8 hours at a time at sea in small boats conducting scientific diving operations.
• Willingness to conduct 3 scientific dives in cold water (average water temperatures is 52 degrees F) per day.
• Able to lift up to 50 lbs and walk a short distance over hilly terrain.
• Strong interest in marine ecology.
• Detail-driven and highly organized, with proven ability to multitask, make effective decisions, and work independently with minimal oversight.
• Strong interpersonal skills and proven ability to work effectively with colleagues.
• Familiarity with basic data management and analysis using R is a plus.

Qualifications

• Experience through coursework conducting research in a laboratory setting.
• Nitrox certification is preferred.

Internship Period: February 2027 through July 2027 (exact dates flexible).

Hourly Rate: $18.00 USD

Application Deadline: End of day November 20, 2026.

Application Documents to Upload

• Resume/CV including courses and/or experience related to the position applying for.
• Letter of interest (maximum 2 pages, 12 pt. font Times New Roman).
• Letter of Reciprocity from Home Institution indicating active status as an AAUS Scientific Diver.
• Two Letters of Recommendation.