Mystic Aquarium offers a post graduate training position for veterinarians looking to specialize in aquatic animal medicine through a Veterinary Internship in Aquatic Animal Medicine and Research. The internship is a one-year, full-time position; however, in select cases extension to a second year may be possible.
The Veterinary Intern will train under the mentorship of four ACZM board‑certified veterinarians and will contribute to the medical care and welfare of the diverse animal collection at Mystic Aquarium, as well as animals admitted through the Aquarium’s Animal Rescue Program. The institution maintains an extensive collection that includes invertebrates, freshwater and marine fishes, elasmobranchs, reptiles, amphibians, penguins, pinnipeds (harbor seals, spotted seals, Northern fur seals, California Sea lions, and Steller sea lions), and beluga whales. The Animal Rescue Program responds to stranded marine mammals and sea turtles along approximately 1,000 miles of coastline, with the goal of rehabilitation and release. The aquarium’s hospital and diagnostic laboratory are equipped with comprehensive clinical capabilities, including in‑house hematology and biochemistry, digital radiography, portable ultrasonography, rigid and flexible endoscopy, computed tomography, and a state‑of‑the‑art surgical suite. Interns will receive guidance in designing and conducting one or more clinical research projects, with the expectation of presenting results at a professional conference and preparing a manuscript for submission to a peer‑reviewed journal. Interns may pursue supplemental training opportunities at collaborating aquatic and zoological institutions. The internship also provides opportunities for teaching and mentorship through engagement with students and participation in informal seminars.
Graduates of the program have successfully advanced to competitive residency programs and careers in aquatic and zoological medicine. Additional information, including a list of program alumni, is available on the Mystic Aquarium website:https://www.mysticaquarium.org/research-and-conservation/aquatic-animal-health/veterinary-science/veterinary-educational-opportunities/
Applicants for the internship should be graduates of an AVMA-accredited veterinary college or be ECFVG certified. Candidates must have passed the NAVLE and hold, or be eligible to obtain, a Connecticut veterinary license. Preference is given to applicants with postgraduate experience in an internship setting or clinical practice, though highly qualified new graduates with demonstrated achievement in aquatic animal medicine are encouraged to apply. A valid driver’s license is required.
The position requires flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays. The annual stipend is expected to be $53,000, plus benefits.
Application Materials:
A cover letter reflecting the applicant’s goals in aquatic animal medicine and research.
A current curriculum vitae or resume.
A current transcript from the veterinary school and any post-baccalaureate program which he/she has attended. Unofficial copies of transcripts are acceptable.
Three letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with the applicant’s academic performance and his/her potential in the clinical and research arenas. At least two of the letters must be written by a veterinarian.
Submit all application material to Dr. Allison Tuttle - atuttle@mysticaquarium.org by December 20, 2026.
Potential applicants who will be in the southern New England area are encouraged to contact us for a tour of our facilities and a chance to meet with our staff. A general orientation to our facility and programs can be obtained by viewing our web page http://www.mysticaquarium.org.
Mystic Aquarium is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, part of Sea Research Foundation, Inc., and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It is our policy to provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, veteran status or sexual orientation. Mystic Aquarium participates in E-Verify.