Internships

We are seeking a student to intern in the DMNS marine invertebrate collection. The Museum’s marine invertebrate collection holds a diverse group of worldwide specimens, the largest portion being marine shells, followed by terrestrial and freshwater shells, corals, and echinoderms. The intern will be tasked with creating high quality images of micro-mollusks using an imaging microscope and a benchtop Scanning Electron Microscope (or SEM). S/he will learn how to use stacking software to create high quality composite images and will gain an understanding of all the other curation and data management skills including databasing involved in maintaining this Museum collection.

Responsibilities

• Photograph micro-mollusks using various microscopy imaging systems.
• Use a photo stacking program to create high quality images for incorporation into an online field guide.
• Learn Adobe Photoshop techniques to improve image quality.
• Re-curate specimens.
• Learn data management methods.
• Use online taxonomic references to update the specimens’ taxonomy.
• Learn data entry tools, including image management and geolocation.

Qualifications

• Must be currently enrolled in college/university in undergraduate or graduate program or recently graduated.
• Must have an interest in a career in museum studies, or marine biology.
• Should (ideally) have taken one or more courses in biology.
• Must complete 180 hours for the internship.
• Must be able to work during weekdays.
• Knowledge of Mollusca and other marine invertebrate species is helpful.
• Basic computer skills including Excel, Word, Google Earth, and Internet search.
• Flexibility and ability to work with a variety of other people.

Working Conditions

• Laboratory position working for long periods at a microscope or computer
• Ability to help lift heavy trays (20 lbs) of specimens
• Comfort climbing or working on ladders

Learning Objectives 
The intern will be tasked with creating high quality images of micro-mollusks using an imaging microscope and a benchtop Scanning Electron Microscope (or SEM). S/he will learn how to use stacking software to create high quality composite images and will gain an understanding of all the other curation and data management skills including databasing involved in maintaining this museum collection.

Compensation 
$2,700 Stipend for 180 Total Hours

Schedule and Total Number of Hours 
January 15 – May 15, 2020 
Schedule flexible (can schedule based on university course schedule). However, intern must be available to work any weekday between 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Application Deadline 
Sunday, December 1, 2019

How to Apply 
If you are a current or former volunteer or intern at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science please contact [email protected] with the subject heading Marine Invertebrate Internship. You will be sent instructions on how access your account.

Applying for the First Time?
Please click on the APPLY NOW button to create an account, complete the application and required forms.

All applicants are required to submit a cover letter describing previous field experience and a CV to your account. Please combine the cover letter, resume, or CV into one document before uploading to your current or newly created account.

Questions?
For questions about the application process please contact Moe Shuley at [email protected] or 303.370.8345.