The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources’ (MDAR) mission is to cultivate a roust and equitable agricultural economy, promote a safe and resilient food system, and preserve a healthy environment for Massachusetts farmers, animals, and consumers. The Massachusetts State Reclamation and Mosquito Control Board (SRB) within the Department of Agricultural Resources, oversees mosquito control in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts including 12 regional programs. SRB establishes administrative and technical policies, guidelines, and best management practices to ensure mosquito control programs are safe and effective. The Pioneer Valley Mosquito Control District (PVMCD) is dedicated to safeguarding the health of its member communities in Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin Counties by addressing the public health risks associated with mosquito-borne diseases. Our primary objective is to meticulously monitor and effectively mitigate the transmission of these diseases through the implementation of a robust Integrated Mosquito Management (IMM) program. This program is designed to encompass a wide range of environmentally conscious and scientifically proven mitigation strategies. _Brief Description of Academic Internship Position_: The Pioneer Valley Mosquito Control District (PVMCD) is currently seeking qualified intern(s) who are eager to obtain valuable work experience in the fields of public health and epidemiology. As part of the PVMCD team, interns will have the opportunity to engage in diverse tasks, including fieldwork, data analysis, and research projects. They will work closely with the Director and Entomologist to gain insights into disease dynamics relating to the spread of arboviruses throughout the region and the transmission cycles. This hands-on experience will provide interns with a comprehensive understanding of the complex interactions between vector-borne diseases and their ecological contexts, helping them to prepare for future endeavors in public health and epidemiology. This position is for an academic internship; therefore, candidates must be currently enrolled in a college program. _Description of Duties and Responsibilities_: · Assist the Director and Entomologist with deploying and collecting mosquito surveillance traps, identifying mosquitoes, preparing samples for delivery to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, and writing weekly reports. · Assist the Entomologist with running and maintaining the Aedes albopictus (Asian Tiger Mosquito) surveillance program. · Support District staff in utilizing GIS software to identify potential mosquito vector habitats. · Assist the Director and Entomologist in sampling and/or surveying of mosquito habitats. · Attend meetings with District staff as needed. · Follow lab protocols for maintaining a safe, clean, and organized work environment. _Preferred Knowledge and Skills_: · Completed coursework in biology, public health, and epidemiology._ · Understanding of basic mosquito biology and habitat selection._ · Ability to communicate effectively and at a professional level with municipal officials when needed. _ · Excellent organizational skills._ · Strong writing, communication, and analytical skills._ · Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly with Excel and the use of CSV files. _ _Hours per week_: This is a full-time internship position from M-F. Some work, as determined by the director, may be completed remotely. _Period of Employment:_June 3, 2024- August 16, 2024 _Hourly Rate:_$21.00 per hour First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days. Please see the Preferred Knowledge and Skills. There are no benefits with this position, except earned sick leave. An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role. Job: Science* *Organization: State Reclamation Board *Title: *Field and Lab Intern Location: Massachusetts-South Deerfield - 67 N Main St Requisition ID: 240004A1