Jim Hill Conservation Fellow - Fish Ecology

Tennessee Aquarium•Chattanooga, TN

10d•$16

About The Position

The Jim Hill Fellowship program honors the legacy of one of the Tennessee Aquarium’s early leaders, who championed inclusivity in all areas of the Aquarium’s work. The Jim Hill Fellowship offers a 9-week, work-based learning opportunity at the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga, Tennessee. It seeks to provide valuable experience and support, with the goal of encouraging greater participation in conservation science careers. This fellowship aims to guide and empower students with a passion for conservation, to explore practical solutions to conservation challenges while gaining meaningful hands-on experience. Selected Fellows will be paid a $16.00 hourly wage along with campus housing and parking. The Fellowship period is May 18th to July 17th, 2026, and fellows must be available for the full 9 weeks. Jim Hill Conservation Fellows will be exposed to several aspects of freshwater conservation science with the Tennessee Aquarium Conservation Institute team. Areas include field biology surveying endangered species, conservation aquaculture for reintroduction biology, lab analysis to understand emerging threats to aquatic ecosystems, and translating scientific concepts for educational audiences. This hands-on opportunity will offer students an increased understanding of concepts in freshwater biology, ichthyology, and aquatic biodiversity conservation. Fish Ecology fellows will focus primarily on field research of rare native fishes.

Requirements

Currently enrolled in college as an undergraduate student in biology or a related field
Good working knowledge of computers, frequent use of Excel and Word
Good written and oral communication skills
Ability to work independently with little supervision, and as part of a team
Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
Responsible for own transportation from campus housing to the Conservation Institute (approx.10-min drive)

Nice To Haves

Background knowledge in aquatic ecology preferred

Responsibilities

Conduct independent research in southeastern aquatic conservation biology.
Prepare a scientific presentation to be presented to Aquarium staff at the end of summer.
Assist with the propagation of Lake Sturgeon, Brook Trout, and other live animals as needed.
Assist with hands-on work in genetics laboratory to learn conservation genetics techniques.
Interact with Conservation Institute science staff to support ongoing research projects.
Assist in fish and freshwater mussel disease surveillance efforts.
Assist with education and conservation science outreach programs.
Assist with lab and field work as needed.
Other duties as assigned.