Marine Biologist in Training

Download the 2013 Spring MBIT application—click here.

Do you want to dive deeper into the world of marine science? Explore science at the New England Aquarium! From studying fish, jellies and fur seals, to becoming a better scientist as you contribute to a global research project, you will join researchers and educators as we investigate the world around us in a bid to better understand and protect our Blue Planet.

Marine Biologist in Training (MBIT) courses are challenging opportunities for students in ages 13 – 17 to learn about marine science through the New England Aquarium and build skills for problem solving, leadership and environmental stewardship.

Spring 2013 — MBIT: Fish

Discover the diversity and importance of the ocean’s most recognizable creatures as we study fish biology, behavior and their role in our world.

In this program, you will…

Study fish biology through dissections and close observation
Conduct fish behavioral studies
Gain familiarity with real issues facing local fish populations, and explore the solutions
Explore how fish come from sea to table
Discover what a fish needs in an Aquarium, and out in the ocean
Zero in on a unique species, to learn all about it; and to present in a program-culminating project
Meet other like-minded teens and have fun!

Schedule
Application Deadline: April 10, 2013
Class Schedule: Classes are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
4 Sundays: April 28, May 5, 12, 19, 2013

Fall 2013— MBIT: Scientist

During MBIT, participants will spend six intensive days using the New England Aquarium and nearby habitats as living laboratories to conduct research projects and discover how research is done by real marine biologists at the Aquarium and around the world. Participants lead a research team as you design and perform research studies to answer questions about the ocean’s inhabitants.

In this program, you will …

Learn scientific methods and study design
Practice project management
Gain familiarity with real field and laboratory biology techniques
Promote collaboration, build leadership and teamwork skills
Gain confidence with your public speaking abilities as you communicate your research to an audience

Schedule
Application Deadline: September 27, 2013
Class Schedule: Classes are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
6 Sundays: October 13, 20, 27, November 3, 10, 17, 2013

Tuition and Expenses

Once accepted to MBIT, tuition for MBIT:Fish (4-day spring course) is $240; tuition for MBIT:Scientist (6-day fall course) is $360 per participant. Snacks are provided, but participants must bring their own lunch. Lunch may also be purchased at the Aquarium Café. Limited needs-based financial aid may be available. Inquire with the MBIT office at 617-973-0250.

How to Sign Up

Spring MBIT applications can be downloaded by clicking here.

Fall MBIT applications will be available by July..

Return the completed application to
Camp Programs Office — MBIT
New England Aquarium
Central Wharf
Boston, MA 02110
OR
Fax it to 617-973-0251, attn: Camp Programs Office — MBIT

OR
Email it to dbadger@neaq.org, Subject Line: MBIT Application

OK, if I do MBIT, what then?

Some youth do MBIT as a stand-alone experience, to participate in a marine-oriented program at the Aquarium because it fits into their interests and adds to their tool belt of knowledge and experiences. But if you choose, MBIT can be so much more! Our goal is to provide opportunities for youth to gain the knowledge to fully appreciate and steward the ocean, along with skills that will serve our students for life in whatever path they choose. MBIT is but a rung along a ladder of learning at the Aquarium, with subsequent potential opportunities including:
• Participation in live blue™ Ambassadors (LBA)
• Assist in data collection with LBA or the Advanced level of Harbor Discoveries Camps
• Potential to be a MBIT Assistant Instructor
• Be a leader in LBA
• Eligibility to apply to be a Counselor in Training (CIT) for the Junior/Senior level of Harbor Discoveries Camps

• You will build the expertise to take a leadership role on in any science or environmental project you do inside and outside of the Aquarium

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know I got in?
Applicants will be informed by email by the date mentioned in the application. If you are accepted, you will be emailed forms to fill out, sign and return along with payment.

If I do MBIT, can I become a volunteer at the New England Aquarium?
Successful completion of the MBIT program does not guarantee a volunteer opportunity at the Aquarium. Please visit the volunteer website for details about volunteer opportunities.

What do I get with my tuition?
• A series of days of instruction by Aquarium educators with backgrounds in research science, ocean education and fish biology

• Six days of instruction by Aquarium educators, with backgrounds in research science, ocean education and fish biology
• An Aquarium water bottle
• Free access to the Aquarium when the Aquarium is open for theduration of the program
• Discount at the Aquarium Café while class is in session
• Meet students from other schools with a similar passion for the ocean
• Eligibility (and a leg up in the application process) for several other Aquarium programming options (e.g. live blue™ Ambassadors, Teen Internships, Junior Instructor roles))

What do I need to bring the first day?
On the first day you should have:
• Closed-toed shoes that can get wet
• Layers of comfortable clothing; be ready for an active classroom
• A positive attitude and a willingness to work and learn!

Is the whole program at the Aquarium?
Most of the time will be spent in classrooms adjacent to the Aquarium, along the Harborwalk around the Aquarium or in the Aquarium itself. There is, however, one day with a planned field trip (weather dependent) to a local coastal area.