[Coral-List] Microfragmentation Internship with Grupo Puntacana Foundation

[Victor Galvan]

*TITLE: *Microfragmentation Intern *REPORTS TO: *Biodiversity Coordinator

*DATE: *To start as soon as possible for a period of six months



*Description:*



Grupo Puntacana Foundation was a pioneer in the Caribbean in the use of
microfragmentation to assist in the recovery of coral reefs. This technique
complements the foundation’s *Acropora *in-situ coral restoration program
which has been running for close to 14 years. This position is based at the
new Center for Marine Innovation. The Microfragmentation intern assists in
the day-to-day operation of the microfragmentaion lab, Grupo Puntacana,
Dominican Republic. This is a full-time, 6-month position supported by a
European Union, GIZ grant titled Biodiversity and Business en America
Central y Republica Dominicana. General shift would be 8am-5pm, or 9am-6pm.
This position will also require weekends, and some nights due to the nature
of animal care. This position also requires health insurance or the
purchase of insurance in the Dominican Republic and DAN divers insurance.



*Responsibilities:*



·      Identification and collection of fragments of opportunity.

·      Implementing quarantine procedures for newly introduced coral
colonies.

·      Water quality monitoring of both internal and external tanks.

·      Constructing and curing of coral growth substrates.

·      Microfragmenting donor colonies.

·      Implementing microfragment recovery procedures developed at the
center.

·      Develop and implement a protocol for transplanting microfragments
back onto the reef.

·      Literature review, experimental design and implementation.

·      Data collection & analysis.

·      Presentations for staff and volunteers; and design and
implementation of laboratory activities for tours of the Center for Marine
Innovation.

·      Assisting in other areas of the Marine Center of Innovation
including: *Acropora* coral propagation, sea turtle husbandry, and other
general husbandry tasks.

·      Assisting in all aspects of upkeep of the microfrag lab: sweeping,
mopping, scrubbing, wiping down tanks, and washing filter socks, minor
repairs to pipes, etc.



*Prerequisite Qualifications:*

·      Bachelor’s degree in biology, marine biology, or a related field.

·      Experience with microfragmentation both theory and practical.

·      Advance SCUBA certification.

·      Medical Clearance to dive.

·      Excellent organization skills to manage time to meet workload and
deadline demands.

·      Excellent interpersonal verbal and written communication skills to a
wide variety of audiences including guests, volunteers, students and staff
to influence productive outcomes.

·      Able to work independently while maintaining consistent and frequent
communication with supervisor.

·         Available to work a flexible schedule, including weekends as
needed or to respond to emergency situations.

·         Proficient in MS Office programs with the ability to collect and
report on data and to prepare written reports and grant information.



*Preferred Qualifications:*

·         Experience in coral husbandry.

·         Previous work experience in a microfragmentation lab or similar

·         Knowledge and understanding of local natural wildlife.

·         Conversational Spanish.

·         Some aquaculture experience.

·         Peer-reviewed manuscript or publication experience.

·         Knowledge of mechanical, biological and chemical aquarium
filtration systems.



*Physical Demands:*

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must
be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this position.
Sitting, standing, walking, and bending are required of this position. Use
of a computer keyboard and computer screen for periods of time with close
vision and the ability to adjust visual focus plus manual dexterity are
required. Comfortable with getting dirty, wet, and smelly.



Ability to lift 50 pounds or more on a frequent basis.   Must be able to
climb ladders, stairs and other devices within and without the work
environment to perform job duties.  Ability to perform cleaning tasks for
the microfragmentation lab.



*Expected Performance Outcomes:*

Prior to concluding the internship, the intern must (a) prepare and present
a PowerPoint presentation to foundation staff related to his/her work done
as an intern and (b) prepare and present a technical report of the work
completed (for Foundation use). The intern is encouraged to develop a
poster board display at the Center for Marine Innovation, as well as a peer
reviewed manuscript for publication.



Interns will work with other staff to design and develop printed material
promoting the Center for Marine Innovation and their work done as an
intern. Interns (if applicable) will be required to present at national,
regional or international conferences.





*Benefits:*

·         Potential collaboration opportunities with one of the world’s
expert in microfragmentation.

·         Dorm style housing (may have roommates).

·         Bicycle for travel to hatchery, if desired.

·         In addition to lodging, a stipend ranging from US$300-500/ month
will be provided depending on the qualifications of the intern. This
stipend is to compensate for personal expenses while participating in the
internship.



To apply for this internship or for additional information , please send
your CV and a short cover letter to vgalvan at puntacana.com and copy
smercado at puntacana.com.