Spring 2026 HTC Undergraduate Research Internships at the USF College of Marine Science

For the third consecutive year, USF College of Marine Science (CMS) is pleased to offer research internships to USF students through the Florida High Tech Corridor Undergraduate Research Initiative. Internships will take place during the Spring 2026 semester, from January 12–May 7 (exact start and end dates TBD) on USF’s St. Petersburg campus.

Selected interns will work about 10 hours per week at a rate of $18 per hour, contributing to ongoing scientific research alongside graduate students and staff mentors. In addition to hands-on research, interns will collaborate with the CMS communications team to strengthen their science communication skills and share their work through university and project social media channels and webpages.

Each student will complete and present a final research product, such as a scientific poster, oral presentation, or ArcGIS StoryMaps. Learn more about each project and how to apply below.

Applications are now CLOSED – Thank you for your interest!

Crowdsourced Bathymetry & Hydro Health Modeling (COMIT)

Analyze bathymetry data from the Crowd the Bay initiative, process datasets with ArcGIS Pro and Pydro Explorer, and test NOAA’s Chart Analysis tools. Work informs NOAA’s hydro health model and provides training in geospatial analysis and communication. See internship announcement.

Marine Invertebrate Contaminant Analysis (TBS)

Lab-based analysis of oysters and barnacles as indicators of contaminant exposure. Interns will assist with handling, dissection, sample prep, and use imaging software with undergraduate and staff mentorship. There may be occasional fieldwork opportunities. The project builds critical lab skills while addressing contamination concerns in Tampa Bay. See internship announcement.

Ocean Circulation & Habitat Characterization (IMaRS & OCL)

Support research on circulation and connectivity in Rice’s Whale habitat through shipboard and lab analyses of chlorophyll-a, CDOM, and zooplankton. Gain microscopy and AI-imaging experience while contributing to conservation science. See internship announcement.

Tampa Bay Observing Network (TBON) Water Quality Monitoring (OCL)

Assist with deploying and servicing real-time sondes on Coast Guard towers, lab calibration, and chlorophyll-a sampling. Mentorship from a former HTC intern now on staff provides continuity. Students gain fieldwork, sensor, and data QA experience in applied coastal monitoring. See internship announcement.

USF sophomores, juniors, and seniors are eligible to apply. Apply to only one project and email your application to roxannv@usf.edu with the project name in the subject line.

Application packages must include the following:

  • 1–2 page resume
  • Statement of Interest / Cover Letter (250–450 words)
  • Unofficial Transcript
  • Contact information for 1 professional reference (work or academic)
  • Availability for the Spring 2026 semester

Interviews will take place in mid-December. The internship will begin around the start of the Spring 2026 semester (classes begin on January 12).

We look forward to hearing from you!