Summer Internship Program
The Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant (IISG) Summer Internship Program provides undergraduate students opportunities to help address issues impacting coastal communities by combining social and environmental conservation sciences. Through this program, IISG’s interns will gain knowledge and skills in practices that help Lake Michigan coastal communities make more informed decisions about resource management and everyday activities. These paid internships may include research, communications, and/or outreach activities. Applicants may have the opportunity to participate in activities (e.g., attending a professional conference) outside of their specific internship duties.
As part of this program, IISG offers required professional development trainings. Throughout their employment, each intern will participate in professional development opportunities that will require approximately eight hours or one hour per week; one or more of the sessions may take more than an hour, so in some weeks, no training will be offered.
Please check back in late 2025 for more information about our 2026 program.
Recent News
- Water Safety Month shines light on lifesaving Lake Michigan resources
- New crayfish curriculum engages students in Great Lakes and local invasive species issues
- Relaunched website provides resources for proper medicine disposal
- Meet our Grad Student Scholars: Lena Azimi
- Spring brings a program review as well as education and outreach opportunities
IISG Instagram
Don`t miss out on the latest edition of our "Making Waves in Education" newsletter! Reserve your spot for a live, Students Ask Scientists call from Lake Superior, and stay updated on upcoming in-person events to learn and network with fellow educators. Perfect for Illinois and Indiana educators passionate about the Great Lakes and environmental education.

Join us on June 6-7 at the Indiana State Fairgrounds to explore aquaculture business management at the NCRAC Aquaculture Business Short Course! Presented by Sea Grant & @purdueextension, this course provides essential skills for effective farm finance management. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your expertise in aquaculture!
Important Info:
-Hands-on training to help aquaculture producers manage their farm finances
-Includes one-on-one expert time + free $120 textbook
-Instructors from Purdue, Mississippi State, and University of Maryland
-Laptop + farm financials required for participation
-Limited seating – first come, first served!
More info at the link in bio.

May is National Water Safety Month—and Lake Michigan deserves your attention. Its waves may look calm, but dangerous currents and sudden drop-offs make it the most hazardous Great Lake for drownings.
This May, we’re encouraging everyone to take a moment to get informed. Check out our brochures, safety tips, and the new Lake Michigan water safety video before heading out to the beach or boat.
Full story at the link in bio.

Join the Invasive Crayfish Collaborative for an exciting webinar featuring educator and author Rick Reynolds. Rick will demonstrate how to engage grade 2-12 students using the newly developed science curriculum "Investigating Crayfish and Freshwater Ecosystems". Rick will share STEAM activities, including scientific investigations and simulations. Participants will also gain the tools and confidence to participate in the Invasive Crayfish Collaborative’s crayfish study- supporting ongoing research and conservation efforts.
Register for the webinar at the link in bio.
