Prince Undergraduate Internship
Prince Undergraduate Internship - Using computed tomography to reconstruct fossil plants from Mazon Creek, Illinois
The Mazon Creek fossil beds southwest of Chicago preserve a diverse flora and fauna from the Pennsylvanian Subperiod (307 million years ago), when Illinois was located along the equator and forests grew along the ancient coastline. Mazon Creek plant fossils are preserved in beautiful detail, and the recent implementation of state-of-the-art techniques has revealed never-before-seen internal anatomy and surface features. X-ray computed tomography (CT) is a powerful technique used to visualize specimens in three dimensions and expose details of the internal anatomy, increasing our understanding of the structure and function of the plants and leading to the hypothesis that floral diversity is higher than previously recognized. The intern will process CT scan data using Avizo software to make 3D models of fossil plant specimens from the Field Museum’s collection, including the base of a small lycopsid and unidentified cones. These models will then be used to interpret the morphology, anatomy and ecological functions of the plants, as well as the diversity of the flora. The intern will also photograph the specimens and learn how to properly curate both physical fossils and associated digital data.
Salary of $17.50 per hour; 35 hours per week for 10 weeks with a desired start date of June 2nd or 9th, 2025. Applications must be received by May 9nd, 2025. Candidates chosen for interviews will be contacted by May 14th, 2025.
Applicants must apply through the Field Museum website at www.fieldmuseum.org/careers. Applications through other websites- including Handshake- will not be considered.
The Field Museum is an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination, embracing diversity, and fostering mutual respect. We value the unique perspectives each team member brings, which empowers our ability to innovate and overcome challenges.