Stroud Water Research Center is seeking current students or recent graduates who are excited to learn and contribute to freshwater science. This internship is designed for people who want hands-on experience in field and laboratory research related to stream ecology, supported by mentoring from a multidisciplinary team. If you’re interested in this work, we encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet every qualification listed.
This internship is offered under the direction of a multidisciplinary research team dedicated to understanding the science of freshwater streams and rivers. Training and experience will include laboratory and field research related to stream ecology. The primary work location is Stroud Water Research Center in Avondale, Pennsylvania, with additional work at field sites in surrounding counties. The intern will work closely with staff scientists and other interns at the Stroud Center.
The Stroud Center is internationally recognized for pioneering research on streams and rivers. Research teams with expertise in chemistry, microbial ecology, invertebrate biology, watershed ecology, and ecosystem modeling study the physical, chemical, and biological processes of streams and rivers, the ecology of individual organisms, and the relationship between streams and their watersheds.
Appointment Details
Application period: Until March 15, 2026, or until the position is filled. Review of applications will begin upon receipt of materials.
Start date and duration: Start date is negotiable, ideally by the end of May 2026. Employment will extend to mid-August, with the possibility of extension depending on performance and program needs.
Location: Stroud Water Research Center, Avondale, Pennsylvania (rural). Field sites are located in surrounding counties.
Housing: Stroud Water Research Center does not provide housing; local options may be limited. Applicants are encouraged to plan accordingly.
Transportation: Because public transit is not available, reliable personal transportation is essential.
Salary: Starting $15/hour, scaling with experience and qualifications. This is an hourly position that does not provide health or retirement benefits.
Responsibilities
- Assist with general laboratory activities such as water, soil, and sediment sample processing and analysis using methods that may include gravimetry, ion and gas chromatography, spectrophotometry, fluorometry, pH titration, automated chromatography, and related techniques.
- Assist with field activities such as instrument maintenance and data download, and soil, water, and sediment sample collection and preservation.
Qualifications
Required
- At least 18 years of age.
- Ability to follow standard operating procedures and laboratory protocols for analytical chemistry techniques.
- Ability to perform physical activity outdoors in a variety of conditions (e.g., hot weather, invasive plants, mud).
- Ability to work collaboratively with others (including landowners) and communicate effectively.
- Ability to work independently with limited supervision, demonstrating initiative and responsibility for high-quality work.
- Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation for off-site work.
- Reliable means of communication during field activities (e.g., mobile phone).
Preferred (Not Required)
- Coursework and/or experience in mathematics, chemistry, and/or biology.
- Prior laboratory and/or field experience.
We encourage you to apply: Stroud Water Research Center is committed to building a team that reflects the communities we serve. We strongly encourage applications from people who are underrepresented in STEM, including (but not limited to) people from racially and ethnically underrepresented groups.
Application Process
Submit your application using the form below. Accessibility: If you need a reasonable accommodation to apply or participate in the hiring process, please contact communications@stroudcenter.org.
