The Pritzker Marine Biology Research Center Lab Intern is a hands-on professional development opportunity for students interested in marine biology, animal care, laboratory operations, research, environmental science, or related fields. Working under the guidance of Pritzker Marine Biology Research Center staff, the intern will support the care and maintenance of the Center's living collection, aquarium systems, research vessels, laboratory spaces, equipment, and student research projects. Living Collection & Animal Care Assist Pritzker staff with feeding and caring for the Center's living collection in accordance with established procedures and IACUC guidelines. Assist with animal quarantine and medical treatments under the direction and supervision of appropriate Pritzker staff. Maintain accurate records and logs related to the living collection. Observe and report changes in animal behavior, health, or environmental conditions to Pritzker staff. Follow established animal care, safety, and sanitation procedures Aquarium & Life Support Systems Assist with routine aquarium maintenance, including: Conducting water changes
- Changing and maintaining filters
- Cleaning aquarium acrylics, decor, and equipment
- Assisting with aquarium diving as appropriate
- Maintaining life support equipment
- Conducting and recording water quality testing Monitor aquarium systems and communicate equipment or environmental concerns to Pritzker staff.
Maintain clean, organized, and functional aquarium and laboratory spaces. Laboratory & Research Support Assist faculty and Pritzker staff with laboratory activities and research projects as needed. Assist students with preparing, organizing, and breaking down laboratory projects and activities. Support the preparation and organization of specimens, supplies, equipment, and research materials. Assist with maintaining laboratory equipment and ensuring supplies are properly stored. Maintain accurate inventories and logs for specimens, equipment, chemicals, and other laboratory materials. Research Vessel Support Assist Pritzker staff with general maintenance and preparation of research vessels. Help organize and maintain equipment and supplies used for marine research activities. Follow appropriate safety procedures when working with research vessels and marine equipment. Laboratory Operations & Organization Support general laboratory maintenance and organization. Keep workspaces, equipment, and supplies clean and orderly. Assist with inventory management and tracking. Follow laboratory safety procedures and established protocols. Communicate supply, equipment, maintenance, or operational needs to Pritzker staff. Perform other duties as assigned that support the operations and educational mission of the Pritzker Marine Biology Research Center. Other duties as assigned Good academic and conduct standing Reliability and punctuality Strong organizational skills and attention to detail Curiosity and willingness to learn Ability to follow detailed instructions and established protocols Ability to maintain a clean and organized workspace Strong interpersonal and communication skills Ability to work effectively independently and as part of a team Willingness to perform hands-on laboratory and animal-care tasks Flexibility to work a schedule that meets the needs of the laboratory, including occasional weekend shifts when needed