​The Nature Conserv​ancy 

​​California Oceans Program​

Bull Kelp Forest Ecosystem Research and Restoration Internship

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Host: The Nature Conservancy, California Oceans Program

The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is a global environmental nonprofit working to create a world where both people and nature can thrive. In California, TNC works to protect the ecosystems, species and natural resources that California relies on and that make our state unlike anywhere else. From land to sea, we access the power of nature to protect the thing that matters most: our home. 

California’s incredible kelp forests are a critical ecosystem that are a breeding ground for more than 1000 species, act as a protective blanket for our iconic beaches, and have an immense impact on jobs and revenue for our state. However, a perfect storm of compounded stressors has destroyed 96% of kelp forests on California’s North Coast. The combination of warming ocean temperatures and the deadly Sea Star Wasting Syndrome​ has led to the die off of the sunflower sea star, which has set off a chain reaction resulting in massive loss for kelp. 

Climate-driven changes like those on the North Coast are leading to a massive die-off of kelp forests not only in California, but in places like Australia, Norway and Chile. Alongside community and partners, TNC is committed to leading the way to address this global conservation threat by advancing solutions for protecting kelp forests in California and around the world. 

Location: Fort Bragg, Men​docino county, ​CA (m​a​​p).

Format: In-person. Interns must be able to participate in a combination of at-home working (no TNC office), single-day and multi-day trips to conduct field work. Most fieldwork will occur in coastal Mendocino County. 

Internship Dates: June 2 - August 15, 2025

Stipend: $8,000 

Time Commitment: The internship is a full time (40hr/week), 11-week commitment. Hours may occasionally include long days in the field (10-12 hours), late afternoon/evening work and weekend days. Over the 11 weeks, the intern may take up to five days off for personal reasons, vacation, or illness. If participation is less than 100%, the stipend will be prorated.

Position Description and Responsibilities: TNC has two (2) positions available for this opportunity. The interns would be working with TNC scientists in Fort Bragg to support the research and restoration of bull kelp forest ecosystems in Northern California. Activities led by interns will help to inform resource management and restoration. Interns will directly assist with regular field-based research, including:      

• Implementation of scientific survey protocols via SCUBA or snorkel;
• Lead sea urchin morphometrics “dockside monitoring” data collection; 
• Preparation and organization of all sampling equipment;
• Collection and processing of kelp and other marine algae sample specimens;
• Assist in conducting field-based Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) surveys;
• Assist with workforce development training for local community;
  
• Science communication and engagement via art and experience.
  

Interns will work closely with TNC scientists and partners to practice safe and efficient shore and boat-based fieldwork, which may include scientific diving and lifting of heavy scuba and research gear. Other tasks include:

• Literature reviews and summarizing information;
• Attending and supporting meetings including supporting kelp ecosystem research;
• Data entry, database management and quality control, and data analysis using various computer applications such as Microsoft Suite. 
• Interns will be required to draft detailed meeting, field, and laboratory notes and to assist in the preparation of materials for research presentations and reports. This position may allow interns the opportunity to take a leadership role in an ongoing project relevant to kelp ecosystem management and/or restoration.

Preferred Experience and Capabilities: Familiarity with basic biological, ecological, and scientific principles. Experience with marine taxonomy or a willingness to learn marine species identification is desired. Ability to follow detailed instructions and collect data in a variety of settings. Strong work ethic and ability to work in a team setting. Experienced with MS office including Excel and PowerPoint​. AAUS scientific diver certification and ownership of SCUBA gear is strongly desired but not required.  Interest and ability to communicate results of research in creative ways through art, photography, writing, education, photography and events are strongly encouraged. 

Skills Gained: Interns will gain understanding in how to conduct applied kelp research activities and how these data support kelp restoration and management in California. Interns will become familiar with collaborative kelp research and restoration projects being conducted in California and will work closely with TNC scientists and with other state, federal, university, NGO agencies and local communities. In addition to gaining field and lab experience, interns will learn the importance of working with a locally-based research team to gain awareness in conducting field operations in the north coast. Interns will work with local commercial sea urchin divers and develop a greater understanding of the intersections between kelp forest health and a blue economy.  Interns will also learn about the data management process and gain experience with data visualization. Through this experience, interns will have the opportunity to work one-on-one with TNC scientists and become familiar with nonprofit initiatives and research. 

Eligibility/Requirements: Interns must be able to work in the rural setting of  Fort Bragg, California and must be able to work from home and/or remotely. In addition, interns must be willing to travel and conduct multi-day field trips. Travel may be required aboard research vessels to execute this project. Interns must be able to lift 50 pounds and must be able to swim. Strong communication and organization skills and attention to detail are preferred. Interns must be able to work independently, maintain positive interactions in a team environment, and interface with partners, public, community and TNC staff in a professional manner. ​Applicants are also subject to general eligibility requirements​​.

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