Veterinary/Research Externship in Marine Animal Health

Summary:
This is a short term, 3-12 week, position that introduces a veterinary student or recent graduate to the veterinary and scholarly experiences at an aquarium with research, public display, and wildlife response mission areas. A Scholar’s time will be divided between working on an assigned project, observing
veterinary procedures, supporting necropsies at the center or in the field, and assisting with routine operational tasks as needed. Additionally, time may be scheduled with specific departments to broaden the Scholar’s knowledge base in aquarium operations, aquatic animal husbandry, and research. The project will be mutually agreed upon with a mentor/supervisor at ASLC in advance, likely involve data analysis and literature reviews, and may involve seabird, marine mammal, or fish species under one of the following topical areas with the expectation of a presentation and written report by the end of the experience.

Education/Training Requirements:
Current enrollment in a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM or equivalent) program; with at least one year of schooling towards a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM or equivalent) completed.

Essential Duties:
1. Assists with veterinary, research, and laboratory procedures.
2. Completes routine operational tasks such as laboratory maintenance, organizing samples, completing paperwork, filing reports, data entry.
3. Assists specific staff, as assigned with other ongoing projects.
4. Assists with collection and publication of scientific information gathered during routine exams, clinical cases, wildlife response activities, animal rehabilitation, and research activities while helping to ensure permit compliance and fulfillment of grant obligations.
5. Deliver information presentations to visitors or staff.
6. Fosters good relations with visitors, volunteers, community leaders, contractors, and fellow staff by promoting positive attitudes, goodwill, cooperation, and providing high standards of service.
7. Complies with all Alaska SeaLife Center policies, procedures, and programs.
8. Maintains valid driver’s license.
9. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Other Skills and Abilities:
Ability to be organized, self-motivated, independent, and possess a strong desire to see the completion of projects. Exceptional time management/organizational skills; ability to communicate effectively with various levels in the organization. Excellent written and oral communication skills. Computer skills including Google applications, Excel, Word, and database programs, experience with ZIMS Species 360 is highly desired. Knowledge of basic research methods and data collection techniques. Comfort with an ever changing/dynamic workplace and an ability to be flexible is highly desired.

Physical Requirements:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodation may be made
to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Ability to swim; see and hear; move about; stoop, kneel, and crouch; use arms and hands; handle objects, tools and controls; and sit. Must be physically fit with a good sense of balance, able to lift and move 50 pounds. Ability to work with and around large, wild animals.

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Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Open Until Filled, apply by 3/15/2025 for full consideration

START DATE: Negotiable

PAY RATE: Unpaid Externship

Please upload your CV, cover letter, and three letters of reference when you apply. In your cover letter, please advise how soon you would be available to start and/or your preferred start date as well as if you have any flexibility for a start date.

Must be able to pass a background check.