Job Description
Join Our Team: The Monterey Bay Aquarium Internship Program (MBAIP) is a rich learning resource for interns and externs, enabling them to partner with the Aquarium in pursuit of our shared DEIA objectives and take our mission to the next level. The MBAIP will provide eligible college, undergraduate, and graduate students with meaningful work experience under the direction of an Aquarium mentor. The MBAIP is outcomes-based, requiring a project report at the conclusion of the program, further documenting the participant's growth along their developmental pathway. In collaboration with California State University Monterey Bay (CSUMB) Scientific Illustration program, the intern will work under the guidance of the veterinary team.
Job Summary: The Science Illustration Intern will report primarily to the veterinary team to collaborate on anatomical diagrams of animals in their care. The intern will utilize their access to necropsies/dissections, specimens, radiographs, microscopes, and live animal observation available at the Aquarium to build a series of illustrations that will be well-informed and potentially of great use to anyone working with these animals in research or husbandry. There may also be opportunities to work with other departments including Seafood Watch, or Exhibits & Publication as need for additional graphics arises, as well as potential opportunities to speak to Aquarium guests about the value of art in STEM. Interns are expected to give a brief presentation of their work at the end of their internship.
Potential Projects Include: - Sea otter anatomy charts to support rehabilitation programs, diagrams of major blood vessels, and explanatory graphics about surgical procedures such as the one to implant a tracking device
- Illustrations to inform routine examinations of Aquarium species, treat health issues, or carry out diagnostic work
- Identification guide of parasites that affect wildlife in the Monterey Bay (microscope experience required)
- Illustration of developmental phases of eggs/embryos of shark species
- Technical illustrations about fishing industry equipment and ecological impacts
Learning Outcomes: Intern will gain experience working in a creative staff position within a major scientific institution with many opportunities to learn how to work on a team, collaborate with experts, manage multiple projects and deadlines, and hone their visual communication skills. This internship also provides a unique chance to directly observe and learn about the morphology of marine species that would otherwise be difficult to gain access to.
Required Skills/ Knowledge/ Ability/ Experience or Education: - At least 18 years of age
- Current undergraduate at CSUMB, must be a student during the term immediately preceding the internship
- Enrolled in Scientific Illustration program with CSUMB
- Must be in good academic standing
- Able to accurately render morphology of both vertebrate and invertebrate animals and possess solid baseline knowledge of internal anatomy
- Must demonstrate an ability to create clear labeled diagrams, interpret difficult or complex reference material, and conduct thorough research
Location/Hours for Internship: Internship will be from July 15, 2024 - October 18, 2024. This is an onsite role with the expectation to do 30 hours per week.
Pay Rate: Pay Rate starts at $18 USD per hour.
At the Monterey Bay Aquarium, we are passionate about creating an inclusive workplace that celebrates and values diversity. We firmly believe that having a team of diverse backgrounds and voices, working together, increases our capacity to serve our visitors and fulfill our mission. We welcome people from all walks of life into our team and strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, veterans, and people with disabilities to apply.
For questions related to this position, please contact: Jordan Hopkins at johopkins@mbayaq.org
Job Tags
Hourly pay, Work experience placement, Immediate start,