2026 Fisheries Ecology Lab Internship Program

The Fisheries Ecology Lab is seeking interns to work under the faculty direction of Dr. Sean Powers at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab on a wide variety of projects in waters adjacent to Dauphin Island, a gulf barrier island in the northern Gulf fringing the Mobile Bay estuary. Paid internships are available throughout the 2026 field season. Preference is given to those who can participate for a minimum of a six-month commitment.

Internships in the Fisheries Ecology Lab involve hands-on participation in ongoing research. Qualified applicants will have the opportunity to assist with studies in Fisheries Ecology in the northern Gulf that involve a variety of fish (bony fishes, sharks and rays) and shellfish from both offshore and inshore locales. Interns will gain experience with various sampling techniques used in fisheries research, as well as associated laboratory sample processing. Potential candidates will work closely with a variety of lab personnel, including principal investigators, post docs, graduate students, and lab technicians.

Requirements:

• B.S. or B.A. in biological or life sciences (Note: must be graduated by the start of the internship)
• Minimum of a 6-month commitment
• Willingness to work a flexible schedule, which may include weekends, evenings, and holidays
• Willingness and capacity to spend long days on a boat, potentially in harsh weather conditions/high seas
• Ability to handle heavy physical work: lifting, pushing, or pulling up to 50 pounds
• Must be a U.S. citizen or hold a current U.S. work visa

Interns will be required to participate heavily in field-based activities, which are sometimes characterized by long hours and potentially arduous conditions. Much of the research conducted at the lab is by boat, thus experience on marine vessels is helpful though not a requirement. Travel across the Gulf States in support of various field projects may be required. Overall, the lab is looking for committed and dependable individuals that are highly motivated to participate in our diverse research program.