2026 Internship Opportunities

Coastal “dead zones”, areas with dangerously low oxygen levels, are expanding worldwide due to the combined effects of climate change and human-driven nutrient enrichment. This project will investigate how river nutrient loading influences seasonal and long-term oxygen depletion. Using high-resolution ocean biogeochemistry model simulations and observational datasets, the student will quantify patterns of deoxygenation and identify hotspots of emerging hypoxia linked to major river systems such as the Amazon and Ganges-Brahmaputra rivers.

The student will extract and analyze data from existing model simulations and observational datasets archived on Princeton’s cluster. Tasks include calculating oxygen anomalies, mapping hypoxia occurrence near river deltas, and examining links between nutrient loading, other environmental factors and oxygen loss. The student will also review background literature on ocean deoxygenation, monsoon dynamics, and human nutrient impacts.

Gain experience handling large climate-biogeochemical datasets using analysis tools (e.g., Python, Matlab). Develop skills in mapping, statistical correlation, and time-series analysis. Understand the coupled roles of climate change and river nutrient discharge in driving coastal hypoxia. Strengthen scientific writing and presentation skills by summarizing findings in a short report and figures.

Quantitative background in calculus and physics is a plus (e.g. MAT104, PH103).

Prior experience with a language such as Python or Matlab is helpful.

Laptop is required

• Students are responsible for securing accommodations for the duration of their internship. On-campus summer housing is typically available the first week of June until the first week of August (details to become available in Spring 2026). If the internship falls outside of on-campus housing availability, students will need to secure alternate housing.