Marine educators deploying a seine net during a community fishing clinic. (Inset) Marine organisms captured in a seine haul. Credits: Peter J. Park, PhD.
NOTE: Applications now being accepted for New York Sea Grant's 2021 Community Engaged Internship Program! Deadline for submission is April 15th, 2021, by 5PM EDT. See below for information on how to apply. Applications will be evaluated during April and students will be notified by Monday May 10, 2021.
Background
Increasing diversity, equity, and inclusion in coastal and marine science research is an important programmatic priority for New York Sea Grant and the National Sea Grant College Program. To further this priority, the National Sea Grant Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) and Traditional and Local Knowledge (TLK) communities of practice are implementing the Sea Grant Community-Engaged Internship (CEI) program for undergraduate students in summer 2021. CEI is designed to specifically engage students from underrepresented and indigenous communities.
The overarching goal of this internship program is to broaden participation in marine and coastal professions by providing training and mentorship to the next generation of scientists, decision makers, and citizens. The program will do so by recruiting, retaining, and engaging diverse students in place-based research, extension, education, and/or communication that respects and integrates local ways of knowing. As such, we encourage applications from students from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups, individuals with disabilities, individuals from minority serving institutions, and individuals from economically or educationally disadvantaged backgrounds that have inhibited their ability to pursue a career in STEM.
CEI Program at New York Sea Grant
In 2021, NYSG will partner with SUNY Farmingdale State College in support of a field project that integrates interests in fisheries, community science, and environmental education. This project will explore the efficacy of current fish data collection methods used during NYC community science programs. The successful applicant will provide assistance to Dr. Peter J. Park, Assistant Professor of Biology at SUNY Farmingdale College, and Antoinette Clemetson, Fisheries Specialist at New York Sea Grant, to analyze historical datasets, document common data collection practices employed by local environmental education organizations, and develop evidence-based criteria to enhance data quality of community science marine surveys. The student may participate in on-site field validation trials, if permitted under the university’s COVID-19 reactivation plan, and organize a webinar to communicate these results to professionals who use seining as a surveying methodology. These duties will include working with New York Sea Grant Communications professionals to prepare a feature story describing this project for publication in NY Coastlines newsletter.
Location, Stipend, and Support
The internship begins on June 1, 2021 and it will be located at SUNY Farmingdale State College and New York Sea Grant Stony Brook University (virtual office), New York. This 10–week internship includes a $5,000 stipend.
Eligibility
Applicants must be a current undergraduate from a New York college or university seeking a degree in natural, social, environmental sciences, or science communication, who have taken coursework in the natural sciences and statistics, or related fields. Students who have recently graduated are not eligible for this program. Having completed a marine science course is not required but is preferred. Applicants with previous demonstrated engagement in environmental work (e.g., participation in community science programs, volunteered in environmental community service), or have an interest in pursuing a natural science degree, are desirable.
Networking and Professional Development
The intern will join a network of students participating in similar programs across the country. The intern will be connected to professional development opportunities through New York Sea Grant and other Sea Grant programs. Additionally, the intern will have the opportunity to attend a virtual professional development workshop to be held during the summer of 2021. The purpose of the workshop is to provide an opportunity for students to present their Sea Grant work, connect with other students in their cohort, and leaders in the network. The workshop will also expose the participants to career opportunities in Sea Grant and NOAA, and provide them with professional development to enhance their knowledge, skills, and abilities in ocean, coastal, and marine science disciplines.
How to Apply
To apply, please send your application as a single PDF document to prh22@cornell.edu with Undergraduate Fellowship in the subject line by April 15th.
The application package should include the following information:
1. The internship program seeks to broaden participation and increase access to STEM opportunities for underrepresented groups. Write a one-page essay describing how you will contribute to this program’s vision.
2. In 200 words or less, respond to each of the following:
• What do you know about community science and describe how these programs can contribute to your local natural resources? (200 words maximum)
• Write a personal and career goal statement describing what you will bring to the internship and how this internship will help you achieve your long-term career goals. (200 words maximum)
• Provide one example of your work from school, a job or internship that can assist to make the final decision for your application. This can include a description of your involvement in extracurricular work as paid or volunteer or internship position. (200 words maximum). Alternatively, provide a link to this example in the PDF document, if this information is published on the web.
3. A one page resume.
4. An unofficial transcript (released to student is acceptable).
5. A list of two references.
***Proof of Health Insurance will be required after acceptance. A letter from the school, insurance company or ID card will be accepted.***
