Natural Science Trainee Internship

For High School Students

The Natural Science High School Interns support the daily summer operations of the Maria Mitchell Aquarium, Natural Science Museum, and Research Center. Responsibilities include caring for live animals, setting up and cleaning equipment, providing professional and courteous visitor engagement, and assisting with general facility upkeep. Depending on the program cycle, interns may also have opportunities to contribute to ongoing research projects.


Interns will be expected to learn the names, ecology, and general biological backgrounds of marine and terrestrial species found around Nantucket.


Ideal candidates are hardworking, self-motivated, and genuinely interested in the natural sciences. These positions are highly competitive with limited availability. Applicants who have previously volunteered with us will receive priority consideration, and past performance as a volunteer or intern will be reviewed alongside the current application.


High School Interns are classified as trainees and scheduled for 4-hour shifts at $10 per hour. Interns may work 2–5 shifts per week over a 12-week period and may be assigned to the Aquarium, Natural Science Museum, and/or Research Center. We welcome continued enthusiasm and involvement beyond the standard internship window.



Residents of Nantucket are highly encouraged to apply!


The 2026 application window will begin January 15, 2026 and close April 10, 2026.


Contact: jgurley@mariamitchell.org.

  • Responsibilities and Tasks

    Provide daily care for live animals (animal husbandry) within the Aquarium and/or Natural Science Museum


    Interact professionally and enthusiastically with visitors during programs, field trips, tours, and general public hours


    Learn and articulate the ecology and natural history of species on exhibit


    Check, maintain, and clean animal tanks, enclosures, and related equipment


    Assist with field or laboratory work to support ongoing research projects


    Communicate MMA research findings to the public during tours, programs, and educational experiences


  • Key Requirements and Qualifications

    Be at least 16 years old and in grades 9-12 by June 1, 2026.


    Willingness to handle and feed different types of animals, including turtles, fish, snakes, etc. 


    Enthusiasm and curiosity in environmental or life sciences • Interest or experience in working in natural sciences and/or the outdoors 


    Comfortable working as part of a team 


    Good interpersonal skills and communication skills when interfacing with the public 


    Demonstrate maturity, dependability, leadership potential and adaptability 


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


    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

    Please click here to download and complete your application form. Applications must be submitted in PDF form to be considred complete. These can be mailed or emailed.


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


    Jónelle Gurley, 

    Director of Science & Programs

    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.