Project Overview
Shoals Marine Laboratory seeks motivated undergraduate researchers to investigate questions of seabird ecology and conservation as part of the Isles of Shoals Seabird Ecology and Conservation Program. Seabirds are valuable indicators of ecosystem processes and ocean health, as they can inform us about a diversity of aspects of the marine environment upon which they rely. Shoals Marine Laboratory is located amidst a diverse community of nesting seabirds (including gulls, terns, wading birds and alcids), providing an ideal environment to study seabirds and their interactions with the marine environment. Seabird Ecology and Conservation Undergraduate Researchers work closely with Shoals Marine Laboratory and external mentors to conduct field research on a specific project. Study species include terns, Black Guillemots and wading birds. Topics may include:
- Developing a chick-aging guide for Black Guillemots
- Evaluating the influence of investigator disturbance on behavior
- Assessing foraging efficiency within and across species
- Exploring inter-annual nest site occupancy relative to reproductive success
Each researcher will gain hands-on experience in a range of field collection and observational methods by working as part of the field team for all seabird research topics. The researcher will also be a part of the larger Shoals Undergraduate Research Group cohort and will participate in weekly discussions and lectures.
Prerequisites
Appropriate coursework in wildlife ecology and/or ornithology preferred. Previous experience at SML is preferred, but not required. Relevant SML courses include: Field Ornithology, Field Animal Behavior, and the Shoals Research Apprenticeship.
Project Mentors
Dr. Liz Craig (Director of Seabird Research, SML)
Dr. Gemma Clucas (Research Associate, Cornell Lab of Ornithology)
Dates: May 29, 2026 to August 10, 2026
Stipend: $2100 for the 10-week program
Includes room & board for 10 weeks, and round-trip vessel transportation from Portsmouth, NH to Appledore Island. Researchers are responsible for their own transportation to/from Portsmouth, NH at the beginning and end of the internship.
2 undergraduate researchers will be selected.
To Apply
- This 2026 internship opportunity is open to applicants from Cornell University and Dartmouth College. Contact Shoals.lab@unh.edu for application link.
- Applicants should be prepared to upload (as separate files): cover letter, resume/CV, and unofficial transcripts. Please use the following naming convention for all files: Last_First Name_file title (example: Smith_John_resume).
- Request two letters of recommendation. At least one letter must be from a professor/faculty member. The second can be from a graduate student TA or employer.
- Undergraduates in all majors may apply.
- Prior relevant field/lab experience preferred but not required.
Note for international students: International students studying in the United States under an F-1 visa are eligible to work as a research intern at SML. Before applying, we encourage students to confirm with their academic institution about their eligibility for off-campus employment through a Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or other comparable program.
Questions?
Email shoals.lab@unh.edu
Learn more about the Isles of Shoals Seabird Ecology and Conservation Program.