The New England Aquarium offers a dynamic and meaningful internship program tailored for students and emerging professionals who want hands-on experience in marine science, conservation, animal care, and nonprofit operations. Located on Boston’s iconic waterfront, the Aquarium serves as a hub of marine education and research, giving interns the chance to learn, contribute, and grow within an organization deeply committed to ocean health and public engagement.
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A Mission-Driven Learning Environment
Internships at the New England Aquarium revolve around real conservation and education goals. Interns join teams that are actively working to protect marine species, rehabilitate injured animals, support scientific research, and educate visitors. This mission-driven environment helps interns understand the role that modern aquariums play in ocean advocacy and allows them to participate in meaningful, impact-focused projects.
Variety of Internship Tracks
One of the key strengths of the program is the wide range of internship areas available. Students from different academic backgrounds can find a track that matches their interests:
Animal Care and Husbandry:
Interns assist professional aquarists with feeding routines, behavioral observations, exhibit maintenance, and record-keeping. These roles offer hands-on experience with fish, birds, reptiles, and marine mammals, making them ideal for students pursuing zoology, marine biology, or veterinary-related paths.
Marine Conservation and Research:
Participants may help collect data, assist with fieldwork, support research activities, and contribute to conservation reports. These internships allow students to explore scientific processes and understand how research informs policy and animal protection efforts.
Rescue and Rehabilitation:
Interns in this area support the Aquarium’s animal rescue team, which responds to stranded or injured turtles, seals, and other marine animals. Tasks may include assisting with intake exams, preparing diets, monitoring recovering animals, and helping with documentation.
Education and Visitor Engagement:
These placements focus on public communication and marine education. Interns may lead interactive programs, guide guests through exhibits, support school groups, and help develop educational materials. This area suits those passionate about teaching, science communication, or public outreach.
Business and Nonprofit Operations:
Opportunities also exist in marketing, development, event coordination, and administrative support. These roles help interns understand how a large nonprofit operates behind the scenes and how organizational functions support conservation and education missions.
Skill Building and Professional Growth
The New England Aquarium places strong emphasis on professional development. Interns receive training relevant to their department, from animal handling protocols to research procedures and communications strategies. Many roles also include workshops, networking events, and career-focused sessions designed to help interns prepare for future roles in marine science or nonprofit fields.
Interns often develop practical skills such as data collection, public speaking, animal behavior observation, report writing, and teamwork. As they work alongside seasoned professionals, they gain valuable insights into career pathways, graduate school preparation, and industry expectations.
Real-World Impact
Because the Aquarium is heavily involved in conservation and rescue initiatives, interns frequently see the immediate results of their contributions. Whether supporting the recovery of cold-stunned sea turtles or helping visitors connect with ocean conservation stories, interns leave knowing they played an active part in the Aquarium’s mission. This real-world impact makes the experience especially valuable for students who want their work to matter beyond the classroom.
A Bridge Leading to Marine Science Career Success
For many students, a New England Aquarium internship serves as an important early milestone. Alumni often go on to roles in marine research, animal care, environmental policy, education, and wildlife rehabilitation. The experience, mentorship, and references gained from the program can significantly strengthen resumes and open doors in competitive marine-related fields.
Official Website
You can explore all the details on the official website.