The Pacific Marine Mammal Center rescues, rehabilitates and releases marine mammals and inspires ocean stewardship through research, education, and collaboration. As part of our mission of education, the Pacific Marine Mammal Center offers a 4-week externship for veterinary students that provides experience in marine mammal medicine, rehabilitation, husbandry, necropsy and research.

Position: Veterinary Student Externship

Location: Laguna Beach, California

Duration: 4-weeks

Description:

The extern will work under the direct supervision of the veterinarians, as well as assist animal care staff and volunteers with daily care and feeding of the patients. Externs will participate in pinniped (and occasional cetacean) triage, physical examinations, medical treatments, anesthesia, biological sample collection, radiography, ultrasonography, endoscopy and surgery depending on the needs of the patients at the time of their externship. In addition, externs will participate in live animal stranding response and necropsy, including pinnipeds and cetaceans.

Externs will be required to complete a small project. Results will be presented to Pacific Marine Mammal Center staff and volunteers, with the potential of completing a research project that can be presented at a conference and/or published in a peer-reviewed journal.

This is an unpaid position. Preference will be given to students who will be in their final clinical year of veterinary school at the time of the externship. Travel, transportation, and housing will not be provided and is the responsibility of the extern. Please note that housing in this area can be expensive and plans should be made accordingly.

Requirements and Preferences:

 *   Preference will be given to students in their final clinical year of veterinary school at the time of the externship

 *   Must be able to lift 50 pounds, be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions and maintain a safe work environment

 *   Unpaid position: Travel, transportation, and potentially housing will be the student's responsibility

 *   Hours and availability: 40 hours per week; must be available for after-hours emergencies, weekends and holidays

 *   Preference will be given to those with marine mammal and/or research experience

 *   Excellent communication skills

 *   Ability to accurately and effectively complete medical records

To apply, please include the below materials with PDF saved with the applicant’s last name:

1. Cover letter, including 3 preferred blocks consisting of 4-weeks (if the student schedule is completely open for several months, please indicate that as well)

2 Curriculum vitae and three professional references

3. One letter of recommendation from individuals familiar with the applicant's academic and/or clinical performance (these can be submitted to Hospital@pacificmmc.org directly from the writer)

To: Hospital@pacificmmc.org

Subject: 2025 Veterinary Student Externship Program

Sincerely,