This project evaluates the potential effects of ocean acidification and other environmental co-stressors on fish populations. The effects on fish of an increased level of ocean acidification –another consequence of C02 emissions – are largely unknown and represent a new and exciting research front. We are using a combination of field, laboratory, and experimental data to address this topic with respect to resource fish species of the northeastern USA. The student will be directly involved in laboratory experiments that address components of this larger research effort. Among other activities in 2018, we will be conducting experiments on the direct and interactive effects of C02 (acidity), dissolved oxygen (DO), and thermal regimes on embryos and larvae of fish, and assessing the adaptive potential of the fish species to these stressors.
As part of our research team, your duties and responsibilities will include:
1) Participate in lab-wide open house for public (late May, 2018) at which the student will join the group in providing oral summaries to public about the group’s research and the student’s expected role in lab research.
2) Participate in weekly internship discussions on topics pertinent to independent and collaborative research, graduate school, presentation and professional skills, networking, and careers in science among others.
3) Acquire spawning fish and/or fertilized fish eggs.
4) Implement and maintain laboratory experiments on the effects of CO2, DO, and/or thermal variations on early life features of experimental fish including their growth, development, and survival.
5) Collect, reduce, and summarize data on fish embryos, larvae, and juveniles from direct observations, digital images, and video tracking.
6) Analyze data, prepare presentation material, and present a summary of project in July to staff.
7) Support role in ongoing laboratory experiments and analyses. The student will work among other undergraduate and graduate students, research associates, and NOAA scientists.
Skills Required
Applicant attributes given preference in decision to offer hosting for summer at my lab:
1) Majoring in biological, marine, or environmental fields; primary interest in ecology, evolution, life history, ecotoxicology, and/or quantitative methods.
2) Prior research experience in any scientific discipline.
3) On academic trajectory that very likely includes graduate school for M.Sc. and/or Ph.D.
4) Willingness to work in the laboratory with some field collections of adults, prey, etc., all potentially requiring some irregularity in work schedule (e.g., early morning, late evening, and weekends as project dictates).
5) Strong work ethic, detail oriented, organized, completes assignments in a timely manner, works well individually and as a member of a team, communicates clearly.
6) Computer literacy – MS Office applications; image analysis software (training provided), experience with statistical programs encouraged but not required.
Location
NOAA Fisheries Service Northeast Fisheries Science Center James J. Howard Marine Sciences Laboratory 74 Magruder Rd. Highlands, NJ
Other Information
