Natural Science Internship

For High School Students

High School Natural Science Internship application process is officially open!


The Maria Mitchell Association is seeking high school trainee applicants to participate in the Natural Science High School Internship program. This internship offers unique learning and leadership opportunities for high school trainees interested in life and environmental sciences.


This Natural Science Training Internship provides students with the opportunity to explore future career and or educational options in the fields of natural and environmental sciences. High school students are eligible to work a minimum of 2 and maximum of 5 shifts per week over a 12-week program cycle and will be scheduled in 4-hour blocks. 

  • Responsibilities and Tasks

    Caring for live animals in the Aquarium and/or Natural Science Museum


    Interacting with visitors in a professional and engaging manner during field trips, feeding programs, and aquarium/museum tours


    Maintaining animal tanks and enclosures 


    Learning the ecology of all species in our exhibits


    Working in the field and in the lab to conduct research


    Communicating research findings with the public

  • Key Requirements and Qualifications

    Enthusiasm and curiosity for science.


    Interest or experience in natural sciences and the outdoors.


    Experience working and interacting with the public is desired but not required.


    Comfortable working both in a team and independently.


    Comfortable working in laboratory and/or outdoor settings (i.e. in waders), and lifting up to 40 lbs (equal to a full 5-gallon bucket).


    At least 16 years old by June 1, 2024.


    High School interns under the age of 18 are required to provide the MMA with a Youth Work Permit prior to the first day of the internship.

  • Application Process

    The application window for 2024 runs from February 8 to April 12, 2024. 


    Please click here to download and complete your application form. Applications must be submitted in PDF form to be considred complete.


    To check on the status of your application after April 12, please contact:


    Jónelle Gurley, Director of Science & Programming 

    4 Vestal Street

    Nantucket, MA 02554

    jgurley@mariamitchell.org


    The Maria Mitchell Association is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need. 

Share by: