Woods Hole Partnership Education Program (PEP) Internship
The Woods Hole Partnership Education Program (PEP) offers undergraduate students the opportunity to work on research projects in marine and environmental sciences, with a focus on increasing diversity within these fields. The internship is hosted in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, at several world-renowned research institutions, including the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI), the Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL), NOAA Northeast Fisheries Science Center, and the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center.
Interns participate in a combination of classroom learning, laboratory research, and fieldwork. Students are paired with research mentors and work on individual or team-based projects that explore topics such as marine biology, oceanography, fisheries science, environmental policy, and more. Past projects have included studying ocean circulation, climate change impacts on marine ecosystems, fish population assessments, and coastal geology.
In addition to research, the program includes workshops, seminars, and professional development activities that introduce students to career opportunities in marine and environmental sciences. Interns also participate in a course on global climate change and oceanographic research, which provides a strong foundation in these critical topics.
Eligibility Requirements
- Undergraduate Status: Applicants must be currently enrolled as undergraduate students, typically rising juniors or seniors.
- Interest in Marine or Environmental Science: Applicants should have a strong interest in marine biology, oceanography, environmental science, or related fields.
- Underrepresented Backgrounds: The program is particularly aimed at students from underrepresented groups in STEM fields and those who may not have access to extensive research opportunities at their home institutions.
- Academic Achievement: A competitive GPA is usually required, particularly in relevant coursework such as biology, chemistry, environmental science, or oceanography.
- Application Materials: Applicants are generally required to submit a resume or CV, a personal statement outlining their research interests and career goals, unofficial transcripts, and letters of recommendation from faculty members.
For thorough eligibility and selection information, visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.