Student Research Assistant, Studying Toxic Red Tide, Moscoso EDAP 2026

The primary goal of this project is to investigate how benthic filter-feeding invertebrates help maintain water quality in estuarine systems and how their associated microbiomes influence their resilience to environmental stressors, such as red tide events. Participate in an orientation session covering lab safety, project goals, and experimental procedures; Meet regularly with the professor regarding job duties, expectations, and progress Assist faculty with primary research by maintaining marine invertebrates in recirculating aquaria at the Pritzker Marine Biology Research Center (PMBRC) in temperature-controlled, recirculating aquaria, collecting invertebrate tissue samples, preparing seawater for animal maintenance, feeding algal cultures, and assisting in algal culture husbandry. Students can receive course credit as an internship through the Office of Career and Engagement. Other duties as assigned Be comfortable working in a laboratory environment that involves frequent observation, note-taking, and sample handling. Much of the work involves attention to detail, such as preparing experimental treatments, maintaining aquaria, and monitoring organism behavior and water quality. Be dependable, organized, and capable of following detailed experimental protocols. Has good communication and teamwork skills, as interns will work closely with research staff and other students. Has the ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs (e.g., seawater containers or lab equipment). Successfully completed an introductory course in biology, ecology, or environmental science (recommended but not required).