Program
Fisheries Interaction Team

Location
Alaska Fisheries Science Center in Seattle, Washington.

Project Description
Do fishing and climate variability affect marine fish communities in the Gulf of Alaska? This project will explore how community structure and species interactions change in response to climate change. To facilitate these analyses we are integrating data from multiple sources, such as those from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, the International Halibut Commission, and NOAA Fisheries. Once this is accomplished, figures, graphics, and reports related to individual fish diet and distribution, physical oceanographic conditions, and fishery catch statistics will be developed.

At the end of the internship, the intern will develop a report, poster, or presentation describing a specific part of the Gulf of Alaska ecosystem and the important ecosystem interactions. Alternatively, the intern may develop a report describing the background, objectives, and design of the research cruise, along with a field diary (if the cruise is funded).

Field Work Description
If funding is available, the intern may participate for either 2 or 4 weeks. The cruise will take place in the Gulf of Alaska (sailing out of Kodiak, most likely). The duties of the intern will be to assist with sampling of the fish catch (identifying fish species, counting, weighing, measuring length, dissecting fish for tissue samples, etc.). The intern will also keep a field diary including taking digital pictures to document field operations.

Qualifications Required
Experience with data management, Microsoft Access, and Structured Query Language (SQL) would be ideal. If the applicant does not have this experience, then experience with Excel and interest in learning data management skills and software would be suitable. There may also be the opportunity to develop skills in ArcGIS. Ability to work independently and to write clearly are also good qualities for an intern for this project.