Veterinary Laboratory Winter Internship

Summary:
Intern will learn about the diagnostics and instruments commonly used in a veterinary laboratory specializing in Alaskan marine mammals, birds and fish. Intern will be exposed to the methods used to maintain a clean and efficient laboratory. Skills and procedures learned will include: blood analysis, urine and fecal analysis, total and fecal coliform water quality analysis, sample collection during animal exams or necropsy, and maintaining veterinary records and sample inventory. Although tasks will be in direct support of animal welfare, there is very little direct contact with animals in this position.

Education/Training Requirements:
Working on or have a Bachelor's degree in a science related field and interest in the Veterinary Medicine field. Experience in a veterinary laboratory setting is helpful but not required.

Essential Duties:
1.    Assist with setting up and processing routine blood samples. Work with laboratory technicians to perform plasma/serum separations, prepare blood slides, and assist with performing serum chemistries and cell counts using an automated analyzer.
2.    Assist with maintaining laboratory and veterinary clinic cleanliness and routine maintenance of equipment.
3.    Conducts weekly water quality testing.
4.    Assist with maintaining sample inventory
5.    Assist with shipping samples to outside researchers
6.    Assist with maintaining medical and laboratory records and logs.
7.    Assist with organizing and inventorying consumable supplies for the laboratories, to include lifting and moving boxes up to 50 lbs.
8.    Fosters good relations with visitors, volunteers, community leaders, contractors, and fellow staff members by promoting positive attitudes, good will, cooperation, and providing high standards of service.
9.    Present structured and impromptu talks on topics regarding the Alaska Sealife Center’s Veterinary Department by learning to employ appropriate public presentation techniques and devices geared to the characteristics and interest of particular audiences.
11. Complies with all Alaska SeaLife Center policies, procedures, and programs.
10. Performs other related duties as assigned. 

Other Skills and Abilities:
Applicants should be agile with a good sense of balance in order to maneuver around the exhibits and holding areas, including uneven and potentially slippery surfaces. Applicants must be comfortable working with database computer programs (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access) and sensitive equipment. Must be willing to work with frozen samples and in walk-in freezers. As well as possess good communication skills and the ability to follow instructions. 

Physical Requirements:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums

Internship Dates: January 27, 2025 to April 11, 2025

Unpaid Internship: Housing Available

Please submit a cover letter, resume, and letter of recommendation.

A background check will be conducted on any potential intern.