NGO INTERNSHIP–MY TIME IN CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA
Lola found the perfect internship after finishing her university degrees. As a research intern, she gained valuable work experience in the nonprofit sector.
MARINE RESEARCH FELLOW INTERNSHIP IN THE PHILIPPINES
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PROGRAM OVERVIEW
GAIN COMPREHENSIVE TRAINING AND PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE AS A PROFESSIONAL MARINE SCIENTIST
This is an advanced program for those ready to take those first steps into a career in marine conservation science. Travel to the Coral Triangle, where you’ll receive expert career development whilst gaining in-field research experience and leading up teams on marine research projects.
This organization’s mission is to transform global marine ecosystems through locally-led community based conservation strategies. They achieve this by conducting innovative research on Coral Reef systems and marine biodiversity, publishing their findings in scientific papers and reports, and channeling research to encourage locally-led evidence-based marine conservation initiatives.
As an intern, it will be your responsibility to lead, maintain, and develop current research projects. You’ll also have the chance to devise and coordinate your own independent projects. What’s more, not only will you gain practical experience in innovative fine-scale research techniques of marine science research, you’ll experience lecturing and leading training programs on it too.
Learning objectives:
- Expert knowledge of coral reef ecosystems and Indo-Pacific marine life
- Leaderships skills and the confidence to develop and run independent research projects
- Comprehensive understanding of marine research tools, equipment, and software systems
- Experience lecturing on coral reef ecology and teaching marine research techniques
- Well-developed skills in the collection, processing, tracking, and analysis of data collected from research projects
- Learn and practice data analysis of images using high-end software systems
ORGANIZATION
Taking a holistic approach to marine conservation, this nonprofit organization operates on three levels: to research marine life and identify threats; to develop locally led conservation strategies; and transform global ecosystems through community-led initiatives. Institute for Marine Research (IMR) is based in Dauin, Philippines, and conducts long-term, fine-scale marine science research with a special focus on coral reefs.
IMR is a valuable resource to the Philippines, and marine science worldwide, conducting critical research on how to best protect coral reefs and marine habitats. As well as publishing their findings in high-quality papers orientated towards the scientific community, IMR uses what they learn to protect marine life. They collaborate with local coastal communities to develop sustainable conservation solutions, running community outreach programs to teach the importance of marine conservation and encourage locally led conservation strategies.
TASKS & REQUIreMENTS
Research Fellows will work leading research programs. This includes devising your own independent research projects, facilitating pre-existing long term projects, and corroborating findings for publication. You’ll also be responsible for educating and mentoring research assistants.
Responsibilities
- Conducting underwater research dives to collect samples, conduct surveys, and observing marine life
- Working in the lab, analyzing data and conducting experiments
- Collaborating with other researchers by attending conferences, presenting work, and pooling research findings for publication
- Lecturing research assistants on marine ecology and teaching research techniques
- Mentoring students, such as leading research projects, providing feedback, or writing letters of recommendation
- Communicating their research to the public, such as writing articles for the press, giving presentations, or creating educational materials
NB. If you want to do your own independent research (or do research for your thesis), please contact us for the possibilities. Fees may vary depending on your research needs.
Training and lectures during your internship:
- 10 day coral reef ecology & physiology lecture series
Workshops on Indo-Pacific coral, fish, benthic, invertebrate and disease identification - Underwater field training in 3-Dimensional reef modeling, diver operated Stereo Video System (SVS), benthic assays, and reef impact protocols (coral bleaching, coral disease, drupella spp. and crown of thorns starfish outbreaks
- Data analysis of images using the most up to date software systems (CPCe, EventMeasure, and AgiSoft)
- ~50 training training and survey dives per month (weather permitting)
Requirements
- Enrolled in or completed a Bachelor’s degree in marine science or a related field
- A strong academic background in marine science and prior professional experience is preferred
- Dive Master certification
- Ability to conduct independent research
- Advanced communication and public speaking skills
- Capable of working independently and as part of a team
WHERE YOU’LL STAY
Your accommodation will be at the IMR base, located within a resort right on the oceanfront, and five minutes from the vibrant town center of Dauin. You’ll stay in a shared room with shared bathrooms, and have the base’s well-equipped kitchen, dining room, classrooms, and a dive training pool at your disposal.
Safety & Support
Safety & Support
The small Municipality of Dauin is located towards the southern end of Negros Oriental. Its agricultural setting makes this part of the Philippines one of the safest tourist spots in the country. The community is made up of friendly, welcoming, and humble people that are always willing to offer assistance to those who seek it. Living inside Liquid Dive Resort you will be covered by the security guards at the resort as well as their CCTV security system.
Make sure to visit your doctor and dentist for a check-up before yor internship and to get all the recommended vaccines and/or medications necessary to stay healthy. Water-borne diseases, including typhoid and cholera, are endemic to the Philippines. You should use only boiled or bottled water.
Communication
Communication
Internet is available on the base, and at most nearby resorts but please be conscious of streaming and downloading to reduce intermittency. The mobile network in the Philippines is great, so if you prefer to buy a local SIM card, GLOBE is the best provider for this area.
Meals
Meals
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided from Monday to Saturday. These meals are made up of local fruits and vegetables that are in season during the time of your stay. Meals can be catered for a vegetarian or vegan diet, with meat options (chicken) available on Fridays. Please make it known before your arrival of any allergies or dietary preferences. Clean drinking water will be available at all times on site.
Location details
Location details
This organization operates from Bulak, Dauin, Philippines. Home to a diverse range of marine ecosystems, including coral reefs and seagrass beds, Bulak is a location of unique potential for marine science research. These ecosystems are located in the Coral Triangle, one of the most biodiverse marine regions in the world, populated by a stunning variety of marine life (fish, invertebrates, and algae). This makes Bulak an ideal location for studying the effects of climate change, pollution, and other human activities on marine ecosystems.
DATES & RATES
Fee Breakdown
Internship start and end dates are flexible and will be discussed with your during the selection process.
Program dates
This is an internship with fixed start and end dates
1 Feb – 28 April 1 Mar -28 May 1 Apr – 28 June
1 May – 28 July 1 June – 28 Aug 1 July – 28 Sept
1 Aug – 28 Oct 1 Sept – 28 Nov 1 Oct – 28 Dec
1 Nov – 28 Jan
What you’ll pay (2024 rates)
3 MONTHS USD 4,513
Inclusions
- Careful matchmaking. It takes time to find the right internship for each person, and we take this process very seriously.
- Initial interview with one of our team to gauge your skills, interests, and desired learning outcomes.
- An academic internship eligible for university credit. Check with your university to confirm if this internship qualifies for credit or alternatively we can assist you with purchasing transfer credits.
- Accommodation in a shared room (up to 6 pax). If you prefer a single room, please contact us for availability and prices.
- Wifi access
- Three meals a day from Monday to Saturday
- Airport/ferry transfers upon arrival and departure
- Marine sanctuary fees
- SCUBA equipment (tanks, weight belt, and weights only)
- All necessary field equipment
- Assistance with your visa arrangement and other preparations
- An orientation program with your supervisor
- Supervision and support during your stay
- Regular check-ins during your internship with your supervisor
- Troubleshooting if needed
- A reference letter at the end of your internship
Exclusions
- Flights to Dumaguete
- Visa and medical/travel insurance costs for the duration of your placement – must include cover for diving and repatriation
- Meals on Sunday, drinks, snacks, and items of personal nature (f.e. curios, gifts, clothing)
- Other SCUBA equipment (gear hire available)
- Costs for additional excursions, activities, or recreational dives (available on Sundays)
QUICK FACTS
LOCATION: Bulak, Dauin, Philippines
PROJECT FOCUS :Marine Conservation
TASK FOCUS: Data Analysis, (Lab) Research, Reporting, Mentoring, Education
LENGTH: 3 months
HIGHLIGHTS
- Gain practical experience devising, coordinating and leading marine science research projects
- Comprehensive training in innovative, fine-scale marine research techniques and career guidance
- Get work published
- SCUBA dive in and study an area of unique potential for marine research
- Contribute to the furtherment of marine conservation at a global and local level
ENQUIREAPPLY NOW
HOW TO APPLY
If you’re ready to apply for this internship, here’s what to do:
APPLY
Fill in the application form (it will show in a new screen) which includes sharing your CV to us
SPEAK WITH AN ADVISOR
We’ll set up a call with you to go through your application.
INTERNSHIP MATCHING
If we feel it’s a good match, we’ll set up a call between you and the supervisor for this internship.
PAYMENT
If everyone’s happy, we’ll provisionally confirm your placement! We’ll then send you the invoice for the deposit, getting started with the booking process and all the info you need.
CONFIRMATION
Only once we receive payment of the deposit your placement will be confirmed.
NEED TO MAKE AN ENQUIRY FIRST?
Or if you’d just like to ask us some questions about this internship first, just fill in the contact form below. We’ll be happy to assist!
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