The Department of Animal Care at Mystic Aquarium, a division of Sea Research Foundation, offers an annual opportunity for graduate veterinarians looking to specialize in aquatic animal medicine through a Veterinary Internship in Aquatic Animal Medicine and Research. Applicants for the internship should be graduates of an AVMA-accredited veterinary college or ECFVG certified. This internship is typically a one-year position; however, with agreement by both parties, a second year in the program may be possible.
All applicants should have successfully passed the NAVLE and must possess or be able to acquire a license to practice medicine in the state of Connecticut. Preference will be given to applicants with postgraduate clinical experience in a practice or internship setting; however, applications from new graduates with significant achievements in aquatic animal medicine are also welcome. Entry-level familiarity with ultrasound, radiology, and endoscopy systems is expected. Must have a valid driver’s license. The veterinary intern must willingly work a flexible schedule that may include evenings, weekends, and holidays. The stipend for the position is expected to be at least $50,000 per annum plus benefits.
The successful applicant will work with the veterinary staff in the diagnosis and treatment of medical cases from the Aquarium’s extensive collection of invertebrates, fresh and saltwater fishes, reptiles, amphibians, penguins, seals, sea lions, and beluga whales. In addition, the intern will participate in the rescue, rehabilitation, and release program for wild stranded marine mammals and sea turtles. Collateral educational opportunities at cooperating universities, aquatic institutions, government, and private industry laboratories are possible and encouraged. The intern will have an opportunity to develop teaching skills by his/her involvement in the Aquarium’s veterinary externship program and informal seminars. The intern will pursue one or more clinical research projects and is encouraged to prepare the results for presentation at a professional conference and for publication in a peer reviewed journal.
Previous graduates of the program have gone on to well-recognized graduate/residency programs and employment in the field of aquatic, comparative, or zoological medicine. Applicants may visit the Aquarium website: https://www.mysticaquarium.org/research-and-conservation/aquatic-animal-health/veterinary-science/veterinary-educational-opportunities/ for more information and a list of the program’s alumni.
Application Materials Required:
A current transcript from the veterinary school and any post-baccalaureate program which he/she has attended. Unofficial copies of transcripts are acceptable.
Three letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with the applicant’s academic performance and his/her potential in the clinical and research arenas. At least two of the letters must be written by a veterinarian.
A cover letter reflecting the applicant's goals in aquatic animal medicine and research.
A current curriculum vitae or resume.
Potential applicants who will be in the southern New England area are encouraged to contact us for a tour of our facilities and a chance to meet with our staff.
Applications are due by December 13, 2024, and should be submitted electronically, ideally with a cover letter, resume/CV, and transcript as one pdf file, to Dr. Allison Tuttle at atuttle@mysticaquarium.org. Letters of recommendation may be included with that package or emailed directly to Dr. Tuttle, if preferred by those writing the letters. A decision will be made before VIRMP match withdrawal deadline. The successful candidate should be prepared to start in June/July 2025.
Additional information may be obtained by emailing Dr. Tuttle at atuttle@mysticaquarium.org . A general orientation to our facility and programs can be obtained by viewing our web page http://www.mysticaquarium.org.
Mystic Aquarium is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. It is our policy to provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or sexual orientation. Women and under-represented groups are encouraged to apply.