The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is offering an annual opportunity for graduate veterinarians pursuing specialization in aquatic animal medicine through a Veterinary Internship.
The successful applicant will join a veterinary team of two full-time veterinarians with specialty training in aquatic and zoological medicine, a hospital manager/lead licensed veterinary technician, and a clinical licensed veterinary technician. The veterinary team is responsible for the preventative health, emergency medical care, and welfare of over 4,000 animals housed at the Aquarium, representing over 250 species including invertebrates, teleost fish, elasmobranchs, amphibians, reptiles, birds, small mammals, seals and otters. The veterinarians also provide comprehensive medical care and necropsy services for stranded sea turtles and marine mammals through the Virginia Aquarium Stranding Response Program.
The intern will act as a primary clinical veterinarian, reporting to the Chief of Veterinary Science and Research (Allyson McNaughton, DVM) and the Associate Veterinarian (Alissa Mones, DVM, DACZM). The successful candidate is expected to work independently and efficiently with mentorship and support from the veterinary team. Clinical responsibilities include performing annual examinations, anesthesia, development and implementation of diagnostic and treatment plans, interpretation of diagnostic findings, surgical case management, and necropsy. The intern will also gain experience teaching by providing mentorship to veterinary and undergraduate students and participating in other informal educational programs and seminars. The intern will also educate Aquarium guests as a component of the main veterinary hospital includes a window for interactive guest experience.
The veterinary intern will be encouraged contribute to ongoing research projects and to complete a publication for submission to an appropriate scientific journal. Additional opportunities for education and professional development, including cross-training at other facilities, are possible and encouraged.
This internship will prepare the successful candidate for a zoological medicine residency, specialty internship, or a position working in the field of aquatic animal medicine. This is typically a one-year position, with an opportunity for a second year in the program with agreement by both parties. The successful candidate should be prepared to start in July, 2026. A decision will be made prior to the VIRMP match withdrawal deadline.
Qualifications:
DVM or equivalent degree from an AVMA accredited veterinary college.
Preference will be given to applicants with a minimum of one-year postgraduate clinical experience in small animal medicine and/or zoological medicine in a practice or internship setting.
Applicant should have successfully completed the National Board Veterinary Licensing Examination.
Ability to acquire a license to practice veterinary medicine in the state of Virginia.
Willing to work a flexible schedule that may include evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Valid Driver’s License and use of a personal vehicle throughout the internship.
Rabies and tetanus vaccination.
Entry level familiarity with radiology, ultrasound, and endoscopy expected.
Application Requirements:
Current transcript from veterinary school.
A current curriculum vitae or resume.
A cover letter reflecting the applicant’s goals in aquatic animal medicine and research.
Three letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with the applicant’s academic performance and potential in clinical and research settings. Two letters of recommendation must be written by a veterinarian.
Application materials will be submitted through the City of Virginia Beach job site at the following link:
For additional information contact: amones@virginiaaquarium.com and amcnaugh@virginiaaquarium.com
To apply: https://phg.tbe.taleo.net/phg02/ats/careers/v2/viewRequisition?org=VBGOV&cws=37&rid=47933
