Every summer, for over 20 years now, the Shaw Institute welcomes a new group of talented students eager to explore the connections between environmental science and human health through hands-on research, education, and community engagement.
Our Summer Internship Program provides undergraduate and graduate students with the opportunity to work alongside our scientists on meaningful projects that address some of today’s most pressing environmental challenges. From microplastics and PFAS research to water quality monitoring and environmental education, interns gain valuable experience while contributing to work that makes a real-world impact.
This year, we are again so thankful for another fantastic group of young scientists and environmentalists coming on board to help advance our efforts.
“We’re excited to welcome this year’s group of interns, who already show great promise,” said Dani Rodriguez, Education & Outreach Manager at the Shaw Institute. “They’ll gain valuable field experience while serving as ambassadors for our environmental education center. After spending just a few days with them, I can already see how passionate they are about making a difference in our community.”
It is indeed a trio of talented and inspiring young people, so we’re excited to give you a snapshot of their backgrounds:
Katie Chan
Katie Chan is majoring in Global Studies with a concentration in Global Health and minoring in Environmental Studies at Colby College.
Katie’s academic interests center on the intersection of public health and the environment, making the Shaw Institute a natural fit for her summer experience. During her internship, Katie will work alongside Shaw Institute researchers to deepen her understanding of environmental contaminants and their implications for human health while building valuable science communication skills.
Sophia Kim
Sophia Kim is an Earth and Oceanographic Science major with a minor in Urban Studies at Bowdoin College.
This summer, Sophia is particularly excited to contribute to the Shaw Institute’s environmental monitoring efforts and community-focused research initiatives. Her work will help support ongoing efforts to better understand environmental conditions that affect local communities while providing valuable experience in data management, field sampling, and environmental health research.
Milo Antoniades
Milo Antoniades is an incoming senior at Oberlin College pursuing a double major in Environmental Science and Biology.
With a career goal of working in marine and watershed environmental chemistry, Milo is eager to expand their scientific skill set through both laboratory and field-based research. Throughout the internship, Milo will gain firsthand experience conducting environmental research while exploring the complex relationships between ecosystems, pollution, and human health.
Investing in the Next Generation of Environmental Scientists
The Shaw Institute continues to be committed to educating and empowering future science and environmental leaders. It’s a commitment that has never been stronger and has been secured long term thanks to a recent endowment from the Chris and Susan Pappas Fund for Charitable Giving. It’s the level of support that will allow us to continue offering a vital hub for connecting research to education.
“This program is so important because it allows us to train and mentor the next generation of scientists and researchers,” said Dr. Charles Rolksy, Executive Director of the Shaw Institute. “Without terrific university collaborations and the support of people like Chris and Susan Pappas, none of it would be possible.”
Interns gain exposure to laboratory techniques, field research, data analysis, science communication, and community outreach—skills that help prepare them for graduate studies and careers in environmental science, public health, policy, and education.
As environmental challenges become increasingly complex, investing in the next generation of researchers and problem-solvers has never been more important.
We are thrilled to welcome Katie, Sophia, and Milo to Blue Hill this summer and look forward to supporting their growth as scientists, environmental stewards and community educators while benefiting from their enthusiasm, curiosity, and fresh perspectives.
To learn more about the Shaw Institute’s Summer Internship Program, visit our internship page and explore how we’re helping train the environmental leaders of tomorrow.
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