Research Intern

The Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve (ANERR) is seeking an intern to join the Reserve’s research department. Responsibilities will include assistance with water quality, nutrient, and biological monitoring projects in Apalachicola Bay, FL. Water quality monitoring involves the care and maintenance of data sondes that are positioned throughout the bay and nearby rivers. Water samples are collected monthly to monitor fluctuations in nutrient concentrations. On the biological side, long-term nekton monitoring is conducted through trawl surveys.

The intern will have opportunities to assist with additional field projects such as sea turtle nesting surveys, seagrass surveys and more. The intern will conduct lab work and assist with office tasks. Examples include filtering water samples, calibrating data sondes, and data entry. Through this experience the intern will gain exposure to multiple techniques and types of sampling equipment utilized by coastal and marine scientists. Work will be conducted in field, office, and laboratory settings.

About: ANERR is a center for research, stewardship, education, and coastal training in Eastpoint, FL. The Reserve is managed by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection in cooperation with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). ANERR is one of thirty reserves around the country. Additional support for ANERR is provided by the non-profit Friends of the Reserve. More information about the NERRs system and ANERR can be found at: https://coast.noaa.gov/nerrs/ and https://www.apalachicolareserve.com/

Qualifications: Applicants must have or be working towards a B.S./B.A. in a marine or environmental science related field, basic computer skills, and a valid driver’s license. The applicant should be comfortable on boats and physically able to work in Florida’s summer outdoor conditions that include heat, humidity, biting insects, and rain. Attention to detail and ability to work both as a team member and independently are required. The intern must provide their own transportation. While previous experience conducting field work is a plus, it is not a requirement and training will be provided.

Internship Dates: May 2026 – August 2026. We are looking for at least a 3-month commitment with a possible extension to October 2026. Exact timing to be agreed upon with the successful candidate.

Internship Schedule: 35-40 hours/week, Monday to Friday 7:30 – 4:00 with occasional earlier start times required.

Location: ANERR’s Nature Center and offices are located on the Florida panhandle in Eastpoint. The area is rural and public transportation is not available. The position includes housing in ANERR’s dormitory in Apalachicola. Apalachicola is 10 miles from ANERR’s Nature Center.

Compensation: $1,000/month and free housing is provided in ANERR’s dormitory in Apalachicola.