Marine Mammal Internships

The National Marine Mammal Foundation’s Internship Program

The NMMF proudly offers two distinct internship opportunities designed to ignite a passion for marine mammal science and conservation. Open excusively to U.S. Citizens, our program provides an immersive and educational experience for both undergraduate students and those pursuing a career in veterinary medicine. Whether you’re on a path towards a degree in marine science or are a veterinary student ready to embark on a comprehensive marine mammal experience, the NMMF’s internships will inspire and empower you.

Through a full time, 16-week commitment, interns gain valuable career experience while contributing to the welfare and research of marine mammals. The NMMF’s program operates in collaboration with the Navy Marine Mammal Program, offering an unparalleled opportunity to observe, assist, and participate in various aspects of marine mammal care and research.

Undergraduate Internship

The NMMF offers a highly sought-after Undergraduate Internship Program, providing students with a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the marine mammal field. This experience is designed to give undergraduate students a dynamic educational experience in the marine mammal field while offering valuable career experience.

Undergraduate interns will have the opportunity to engage in a wide range of responsibilities, contributing to the well-being and study of dolphins and sea lions. These responsibilities include:

  • Diet Preparation: Assist in preparing the diets for marine mammals, ensuring they receive proper nutrition.
  • Animal Husbandry: Assist with husbandry tasks, including caring for the marine mammals and supporting the training staff.
  • Animal Physicals: Provide support to the animal care staff during marine mammals physical examinations.
  • Sanitation: Maintain cleanliness and hygiene within the facility.
  • Equipment and Facility Maintenance: Upkeep and maintenance of equipment and facilities used in the program.
  • Research Support: Assist in various ongoing research projects related to marine mammal studies, helping gather valuable data and contributing to scientific advancements in the field.
  • Lectures and Field Trips: To enhance their learning experience, interns will have the opportunity to attend lectures and participate in field trips that provide insights into marine mammal science.

Veterinary Externship

For students in their fourth year of veterinary school, the Veterinary Medical Externship provides graduate students with a unique opportunity to gain valuable hands-on experience in marine mammal veterinary care and research. The NMMF’s long-standing commitment to the welfare and study of marine mammals has created an exceptional learning environment for those pursuing a career in marine science and veterinary medicine. 

The Navy maintains and cares for a large population of dolphins and sea lions in an open-water environment in San Diego Bay. The NMMF, in collaboration with the Navy Marine Mammal Program, is dedicated to the well-being of marine mammals involved in these military operations. Graduate students will have a unique opportunity to contribute to the preventive medicine program, which includes comprehensive physical examinations, nutrition and sanitation oversight, and support for animal deployments. Responsibilities include:

  • Marine Mammal Health: Assist with marine mammal health assessments, including physical examinations, diagnosis, and treatment plans.
  • Medical Procedures: Observe and participate in all clinical activities, under the direction of the veterinary staff, as the situation permits.
  • Laboratory Work: Engage in laboratory work, which may include sample processing, data analysis, and the archiving of biologic specimens.
  • Research Support: Assist in ongoing research projects related to marine mammal health and physiology, contributing to advancements in scientific understanding.
  • Advanced Clinical Technologies: Students will be exposed to the development of advanced clinical technologies in the field of marine mammal veterinary care.
  • Staff Development: In addition to hands-on clinical experience, graduate students may participate in staff development activities related to animal care.
  • Networking: The program offers a valuable opportunity to network and connect with pioneers in marine science, providing students with access to a diverse range of industry professionals.

As part of the program, students are expected to select and complete a clinical project in marine mammal medicine, allowing them to apply their knowledge and skills in a practical setting.

Application Details

The application process for both programs requires a competitive approach. 

Both the Undergraduate Internship and Veterinary Medicine Externship require a 40 hours per week, 16-week commitment. 

Undergraduates must arrange to receive college credit to be considered for the internship. 

To apply for either program, prospective interns are required to submit a comprehensive application package, including a resume, cover letter, transcripts (unofficial or official), proof of medical insurance, proof of US citizenship, and a minimum of three letters of recommendation from professors or employers. Please note that all applicants must be U.S. citizens to be eligible for these internship opportunities.

Deadlines

Spring Internship: Application deadline is October 1st

Summer Internship: Application deadline is March 1st

Fall Internship: Application deadline is June 1st

Veterinary Externship: Rolling basis

How to Apply

Interested individuals should contact Erika Putman, Director of Education and Outreach, at erika.putman@nmmf.org for application instructions and inquiries.

What do students think?

"This internship gave me the opportunity to see everything that happens in this field of work, and not just the fun stuff but the details of diet prep, training plans, record keeping, and cleaning."
"This internship is a great way to see what it's actually like working with marine mammals. A lot of people don't realize how hard trainers work (both physically and mentally) to train their animals."
"I have done a previous marine mammal internship before, and I feel like I learned soooo much more here with the Navy. I'm very happy with my experience and I feel like I have grown a lot in the past few months in regards to marine mammal care and training."
"This internship has definitely taught me a lot and has showed me that this is exactly what I want as a career. This internship is very well structured and realistic."
"This program is so well-rounded and is connected to so many pioneers in marine science that not only are you getting experience but you can network and meet such a range of people."
"This was the most rewarding experience I have ever had. I feel that I have learned so much about the field in such a short period of time. I would do it all over again in a heartbeat."
"This opportunity has been the best experience of my life and I have learned so much. I have gained not only career knowledge, but friendships and an even deeper passion for the field!"

About the U.S. Navy Marine Mammal Program

Established in 1960, the U.S. Navy Marine Mammal Program (MMP) is a specialized division within the U.S. Navy, working with marine mammals for various military applications. Dolphins and sea lions have played a crucial role in tasks such as detecting underwater mines, object retrieval, and supporting underwater surveillance. The NMMF, in collaboration with the MMP, is dedicated to the well-being of marine mammals involved in these military operations. This includes comprehensive veterinary care and health assessments to ensure the animals are in optimal condition to perform their duties. The NMMF also conducts vital scientific research projects, such as investigating marine mammal hearing abilities, biosonar systems, and physiological responses to the marine environment. These studies not only benefit military applications but also contribute to the broader field of marine science and conservation. If you’re considering an internship with the NMMF, this dynamic partnership provides a unique and rewarding environment for hands-on experiences in marine mammal care, research, and conservation, fostering a deep appreciation for these magnificent creatures and their role in our oceans.