Research Internship

Raritan Headwaters Association (RHA) is a non-profit conservation organization based in Bedminster, New Jersey, dedicated to protecting water resources in the Raritan River watershed. Since 1959, RHA has been collecting high-quality data and advancing conservation efforts through science-based management. RHA produces annual reports on surface water quality, informing watershed planning and helping address sources of pollution. Learn more at www.raritanheadwaters.org.

About the Position: RHA is seeking a Research Intern for the summer of 2025 who will provide hands-on experience in both watershed monitoring and lake research. The intern will assist with data collection, analysis, and community science efforts while supporting staff in stream and lake monitoring programs. The role will provide valuable experience in water quality testing, field research, data management, and project coordination.

Key Responsibilities:

Stream Monitoring Program

• Assist with chemical, biological, and habitat assessments of stream sites in the Raritan River watershed.
• Coordinate volunteer participation, organize site assignments, and ensure quality data collection.
• Support data management and analysis using tools like Excel, R, and ArcGIS.
• Help prepare reports summarizing monitoring results.

Limnological Research

• Support biweekly monitoring, including water and hydric soil quality testing, macroinvertebrate collection, and habitat assessments.
• Coordinate volunteer community scientist activities for lake research.
• Input data from research and assist with report preparation.

Qualifications:

Required

• Working toward or completed degree in environmental science (or related field) or equivalent professional experience.
• Experience or willingness to learn how to use data analysis tools (Excel, R, ArcGIS).
• Comfortable working outdoors in a variety of conditions, including kayaking/canoeing.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple tasks.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and preferably a car (mileage reimbursed).

Preferred

• Prior experience with water quality testing or environmental research.
• Experience coordinating volunteers or community science efforts.
• Interest in hydrology, lake management, and watershed science.

Hours: Approximately 15–20 hours/week for 10 weeks

Term: May through August (flexible start date)

Location: RHA headquarters in Bedminster, NJ, and research sites in the watershed.