Okeanos 2014 Internship
Okeanos Explorer Mapping Internship Program
We are no longer accepting applications for the 2014 season. Please check back in January, 2015.
Program Description:
The Office of Ocean Exploration and Research (OER) provides the nation with unparalleled capacity to discover and investigate new oceanic regions and phenomena, conduct the basic research required to document discoveries, and seamlessly disseminate data and information-rich products to a multitude of users. The program strives to provide resources, develop technological solutions, and innovative applications to address critical problems in undersea exploration. A fundamental part of the OER mission is the engagement of the marine science community, general public and training of the next generation of explorers.
The NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer, is the Nation’s only federally-operated vessel dedicated to ocean exploration. The ship is equipped with advanced tools that support systematic exploration of unknown ocean regions. High-resolution sonars, deepwater remotely operated vehicles, and telepresence technology are used to collect baseline information in unexplored areas. Real time collaboration with scientists and other experts at exploration command centers around the world enables rapid dissemination of information-rich products to the scientific community and ensures that data from new discoveries are available almost immediately to experts in relevant disciplines for further analysis and research.
Internship Description:
The University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR) is currently seeking Mapping Interns to participate in the Okeanos Explorer Program’s Mapping Internship for the 2014 field season. This internship is open to enrolled undergraduate and graduate students as well as those who have recently graduated from a higher education program. The internship will provide the opportunity to gain experience using an advanced multibeam bathymetric sonar mapping system, while contributing in a significant way to the Okeanos Explorer ocean exploration mission.
A typical internship will consist of one (1) 2 to 3 week offshore expedition during the spring or summer of 2014. Interns will stand an eight hour mapping watch each day while on board. The duties of mapping watchstanders typically includes the acquisition and processing of multibeam data and associated sound velocity profile data, as well as precise record keeping. Each intern will also complete an onboard project of their own interest, with approval and support from experienced mapping team personnel.
Required Skills:
- Interest in learning about seafloor mapping operations.
- Familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office tools
- Ability to stand an 8-hour at-sea watch.
- Attention to detail.
Additional Skills (Preferred but not required):
- Previous experience in the acquisition and processing of multibeam data.
- Previous experience with geographic information systems (GIS).
- Previous experience with fisheries or sub-bottom sonars.
Compensation:
A pre-tax daily stipend per day (commensurate with applicant’s experience) is provided during the internship. Please note that the stipend will be taxed by the Federal government, and interns will be provided a 1099 Form at the end of the tax year. All travel costs to and from the ship are covered in addition to the stipend.
If interested please apply at: https://www.regonline.com/okeanosfy14
The following information is requested as part of the application process:
1. A current resume or Curriculum Vitae, including name and contact information for at least two references. If you are working with an academic or research advisor, please include his/her contact information and a letter of reference as well.
2. A brief letter of interest in the internship, which specifically addresses these questions:
- Why do you think ocean exploration is important?
- What are your anticipated educational / academic goals for this internship?
- How do you anticipate that an internship with the Okeanos Explorer program will apply to your future academic and/or career pursuits?
3. Your availability between February 1st and August 31st, 2014.
4. Are you a US citizen? (For administrative purposes only. US citizenship is not a requirement for the internship)
For additional information about the Okeanos Explorer and the Office of Ocean Exploration and Research please visit: http://oceanexplorer.noaa.gov/okeanos/
