Mote Marine Laboratory Internships: An Ocean of Opportunity
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, nestled in Sarasota, Florida, offers a unique platform for aspiring marine scientists, conservationists, and educators through its comprehensive internship programs. Since its inception in 1955, Mote has been dedicated to fostering a community deeply committed to marine life conservation. These internships provide invaluable hands-on experience, allowing students and recent graduates to contribute to cutting-edge research, conservation efforts, and educational initiatives.
A Hub for Marine Research and Education
Mote Marine Laboratory stands as an independent, non-profit international marine research laboratory. Mote's commitment to ocean and coastal research is reflected in its numerous Research Programs and Centers, STEM education outreach, and an aquarium showcasing diverse marine species. With a team of PhD-level scientists, dedicated staff, and volunteers, Mote fosters a collaborative environment for learning and growth.
Internship Program Overview
Mote Internships offer college students and recent college graduates the chance to gain valuable hands-on experience in Ocean Science research, conservation, education, and support services. Annually, close to 200 college students and recent college graduates participate in this program.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for a Mote internship, applicants must:
- Have obtained a high school diploma.
- Be enrolled in an accredited university or college program at the undergraduate or graduate level OR be a recent college graduate.
- Maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale.
- International interns who speak English fluently are welcome to apply.
Internship Opportunities Across Departments
Internships are available in most departments, including:
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- Laboratory
- Aquarium
- Education
- Support programs
- Communication and PR teams
- Graphic design and photography
- Library
This diverse range of options ensures that students with varied interests and skill sets can find a suitable placement.
Featured Internship Programs
Marine Experimental Research Facility (MERF) Internship
This internship focuses on the Marine Experimental Research Facility (MERF), a 4,200 sq. ft. facility housing 110,000 gallons of tank space for captive research projects involving elasmobranch fishes (sharks and rays).
Responsibilities:
- Housing, care, and maintenance of elasmobranch fishes.
- Managing life support systems.
- Designing and constructing life support systems.
- Monitoring water chemistry.
- Administering medicinal treatments.
- Studying the biology of elasmobranchs.
Ideal Candidate:
The ideal candidate should possess a strong desire to learn about elasmobranch husbandry and animal care, life support system design, construction and maintenance, and water chemistry requirements for elasmobranch fishes.
Manatee Research Program Internship
The Manatee Research Program studies various aspects of manatee biology in Southwest Florida, including population dynamics, population genetics, habitat use, distributional patterns, and social behavior.
Responsibilities:
- Collecting field data and samples using photo-identification and aerial surveys.
- Assisting with data collection, boat handling, and equipment maintenance.
- Spending approximately 20% of their time in the field and 80% in the office/lab.
- Working in the field for long hours, sometimes in uncomfortable weather conditions.
Program Focus:
- Spring through early fall: Photo-identification and behavioral sampling in Sarasota and Manatee counties.
- Winter: Field work in Charlotte Harbor and Ft. Myers area.
- Aerial surveys: Conducted twice per month (during the non-winter) in Sarasota County.
The program's long-term database contributes to management and conservation measurements for Florida manatees.
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Undergraduate Research Experience (URE)
The Undergraduate Research Experience (URE) program offers a residential research experience for undergraduates, providing hands-on opportunities to participate in scientific research under the mentorship of Mote scientists.
Program Highlights:
- Gain experience in scientific research and science communication.
- Attend research seminars and workshops on career skills.
- Enhance knowledge and experience needed for entry-level employment and graduate studies.
- URE projects aim to increase the participation of diverse talent in STEM.
- Free housing in a local dormitory or a housing stipend.
- The program runs from May 24 to August 1, 2026.
Application Process:
Applicants must complete the online application form, including a Statement of Interest, a resume or CV, and an unofficial transcript.
The Mote Experience
Hands-on Learning and Skill Development
Mote internships provide practical, hands-on experience that complements classroom learning. Interns work alongside experienced scientists, educators, and animal care specialists, gaining valuable skills and insights into their respective fields.
Career Advancement
The experience gained through a Mote research internship enhances both the knowledge and experience needed for entry-level employment as well as graduate studies within related fields.
Networking Opportunities
Interns have the opportunity to network with professionals in the marine science community, building valuable connections that can lead to future career opportunities.
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Contributing to Conservation
Mote internships allow students to contribute to meaningful research and conservation efforts, making a real difference in the health of our oceans.
Life at Mote
Location and Transportation
Mote’s main campus is located on City Island in Sarasota, Florida. Mote’s Aquaculture Park is also located in Sarasota but at an offsite facility. Mote’s International Center for Coral Reef Research and Restoration is located in Summerland Key, Florida. Public transportation between Mote’s Sarasota campus and most local areas is available through the Sarasota County Area Transit bus system.
Housing
Mote is unable to provide or arrange for intern housing. However, once candidates have accepted an internship offer, Mote is able to offer a small list of housing options and can also put interns in communication with one another so that they may arrange for shared housing. For URE participants, free housing is provided in a local dormitory.
Stipends
Due to Mote’s status as a nonprofit research institution, positions offered by the Mote College Intern Program are unpaid. However, a limited amount of stipend funds are available to partially support the cost of living expenses. Candidates must exhibit strong financial need in order to apply.
Impact and Success Stories
Gina, who is part of the team at Mote, connects with applicants and successful interns during the process, and follows students throughout their time at Mote. “Speaking with students and understanding how impactful this experience is for them is very rewarding,” she says. Mote's internship program has been instrumental in shaping the careers of numerous marine scientists and conservationists. The program's emphasis on hands-on learning, mentorship, and real-world experience has proven to be a winning formula for success.
Applying for an Internship
The online application process is streamlined and user-friendly. Mote uses a system that allows them to seamlessly manage hundreds of incoming applications each year, and keep their materials organized in one, easy-to-use system; connecting with applicants every step of the way. Applicants can customize their submissions for specific programs and experiences. The system provides instant follow-up, and reviewers can efficiently access applications.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Mote Marine Laboratory is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively seeks to diversify its workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected category.
A Glimpse into Mote's Broader Initiatives
Beyond internships, Mote Marine Laboratory is deeply involved in various research, conservation, and education initiatives.
Ocean Technology Research Program
Mote is seeking a full-time senior level researcher to lead the current Mote Ocean Technology Research Program to the next level of innovation focused on autonomous and remotely operated vehicles, next generation robotics and sensor development, and use of artificial intelligence and swarm model algorithms that will together serve as an Ocean Technology Center of Excellence to support research and science education across the institution and beyond. The current Mote Ocean Technology Research Program mission is to develop and utilize various forms of cutting-edge sensor and autonomous vehicle technology in conjunction with a wide range of interdisciplinary scientific goals to assist in addressing complex ocean and coastal issues, streamline processes, and monitor the important ecological parameters off the western shores of Florida such as water quality, water temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, and chlorophyll levels in near real time.
Coral Reef Restoration
Mote is committed to coral reef restoration efforts. The Coral Reef Restoration Research Program focuses on the management, organization, archival, reporting, and analysis of all Coral Reef Restoration Research Program data. The program also involves leading and supervising staff, interns, and volunteers in the collection, processing, and analysis of experimental and monitoring data, particularly large area imagery.
Education and Community Engagement
Mote’s Education Department develops and delivers high-quality education programs using best practices and technology to reach diverse and global audiences. The Community Engagement Specialist for the Upper Florida Keys supports Mote Marine Laboratory’s mission by executing community-facing outreach, events, tours, and public engagement activities that increase public awareness and understanding of Mote’s research, conservation, and restoration efforts focused on coral reef ecosystems in the region.
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