A key component in understanding a fishery’s status is to understand its age structure; what proportion of the population is of a given age. For fishes this is typically done by identifying growth markers (rings) in the otoliths. However, validating (or confirming) the accuracy of the estimate can be time and sample size prohibitive. Recently, a new method for direct age estimation of fishes, and therefore potentially age validation, was identified using amino acid racemization. This project seeks to pilot this method on fish(es) of interest within the northeast region. Student(s) will process fish eye tissue using SOPs and follow laboratory safety procedures. They will also analyze data, plan and create presentation materials, and present a summary of the project to other student interns and laboratory staff. Students will also participate in weekly meetings of the Sandy Hook Internship Program (SHIP) wherein interns and mentors discuss and share topics relevant to students and early career scientists (e.g., applying to / life in graduate school, finding research topics, grants, networking, presentations, careers, etc.).