MARINE RESEARCH INTERNSHIP IN MOZAMBIQUE

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

GAIN HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE IN MARINE RESEARCH ON A STUNNING ISLAND, STUDYING DIVERSE ECOSYSTEMS AND CONTRIBUTING TO CONSERVATION EFFORTS

Here’s an opportunity to get field experience in marine research in an absolutely stunning setting. Whether you’re a budding marine or environmental scientist or simply passionate about marine conservation, we invite you to apply for our Marine Research Internship in Mozambique; an internship that will take you to an idyllic island that is the perfect base for studying marine life, and contributing to marine conservation efforts.

As a marine research intern, you’ll collect data on the rich ecosystem of this area, and you’ll observe and study animals such as whales, dolphins, turtles, and manta rays. You’ll be part of a dedicated team of scientists and environmentalists that are running innovative research programs with the aim of better understanding the environment – and preserving marine ecosystems in this part of the Indian Ocean. Not unimportantly, you’ll get to live on the island, and soak up this unique environment on a daily basis. You’ll get to dive amongst colorful fish, observe one of the world’s most biodiverse coral reefs, and walk along white sandy beaches.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

  • An in-depth understanding of the multilayered nature of marine conservation
  • Practical field experience in studying, mapping, and analyzing a marine environment
  • Learn how marine science is crucial in understanding how vulnerable ecosystems work
  • A thorough knowledge of marine conservation challenges in the Indian Ocean
  • Learn how to use diving as a technical tool for research
  • Build valuable relationship in the marine science industry

ORGANIZATION

You’ll be part of a nonprofit organization that provides a platform for multifaceted marine conservation research. The overall goal of the center, which is the first permanent marine observatory in Africa, is to study the rich ecosystem in the Archipelago and to use the data to address conservation needs on both a local and regional level. This is done through a combination of environmental sensors, measurements, and surveys to understand changes in the environment using time-series techniques.

The main activities of the center are:

  • Ecosystem monitoring: seawater sampling, collection of species for microscopic analysis, and using sensors to measure oceanographic parameters in order to detect and predict climate-driven changes of biological and chemical changes
  • Species identification and habitat mapping: conducting coastal and underwater surveys to study marine life hotspots
  • Studying of migratory partners of marine life: locating certain species, taking bio-samples, and studying these in a laboratory setting
  • Marine debris monitoring: raising environmental awareness, exploring recycling solutions, and monitoring marine debris

TASKS & REQUIreMENTS

As a marine research intern, you’ll join the local team of world-class scientists and environmentalists, and assist with all elements of their daily activities.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Assist with ecosystem monitoring (taking seawater samples, ocean acidification monitoring, collecting plankton samples and microscopic identification, measuring oceanographic parameters)
  • Do marine life identification, take surveys, and help with habitat mapping
  • Study migratory patterns and population dynamics during research boat expeditions
  • Go on diving expeditions to maintain underwater equipment
  • Monitor marine debris to help analyse the extent of marine pollution, and help explore waste management solutions
  • Help raise awareness of marine conservation in local communities on the mainland

Note that if you don’t have your diving certification, you’ll be able to do a PADI diving course on the island.

REQUIREMENTS

  • Ideally, studying marine biology, environmental sciences, or a related field
  • Passion for marine conservation
  • A desire to learn and to gain field experience
  • Any practical research experience is an advantage
  • Speaking and writing English skills
  • A flexible and resourceful approach to work
  • PADI Open Water diving certificate (or equal). NB. It’s possible to do a diving course on the island and if your last dive was more than 6 months ago at the time of arrival, you will need do a refresher course (USD 130).

WHERE YOU’LL STAY

During this Marine Research Internship, you’ll be staying at the research center, on Benguerra Island. The island is one of five small islands that make up the Bazaruto Archipelago, a protected conservation area and national park. You’ll wake up every morning with views of clear turquoise waters and wide sandy beaches. Quite the place to live for a few months!

The center is carefully designed to blend in to its surroundings and to have a minimum carbon footprint; it’s built with local materials, it runs on solar energy, and it has zero-waste policies. You’ll enjoy comfortable accommodation with shared dorms rooms and plenty of communal areas to relax in. And since it’s a fully serviced accommodation, you’ll be cooked three meals a day.

DATES & RATES

Fee Breakdown

Internship start and end dates are flexible and will be discussed with your during the selection process.

What you’ll pay (2024 rates)

2 WEEKS USD 1,900

4 WEEKS USD 3,450

6 WEEKS USD 4,730

8 WEEKS USD 5,900

12 WEEKS USD 6,800

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
  • Serviced accommodation on Benguerra Island
  • Airport transfers to and from Vilankulos
  • Three meals a day
  • Assistance with your visa arrangement and other preparations
  • Visa transport to Maxixe (for visa extension)
  • Park fees
  • An orientation program with your supervisor
  • Supervision and support during your internship
  • Regular check-ins during your internship with your supervisor
  • Troubleshooting if needed
  • A reference letter at the end of your internship

Exclusions

  • Flights to Vilankulos
  • Visa and medical/travel insurance costs for the duration of your placement – must include cover for diving and repatriation
  • Costs for additional excursions, activities, or recreational dives (you’ll get a 20% discount on a PADI diving course)

FAQs

Some of our most commonly asked questions for programs in Mozambique.

What can I expect from an internship in Mozambique?

You’ll get the opportunity to work on real-world projects that make an impact for a meaningful cause. You can also expect to get exposed to the flamboyant fashions crafted from Capulana fabrics, the customs and traditions of the indigenous Bantu cultures, spirited music and dance scenes, and the spiciest piri-piri in the world.

Will I have time to travel during my internship?

Unfortunately no, since the internships are based on-site the research project. If you really want to explore the country, make sure to take time before or after your internship, but keep the visa regulations in mind when planning.

Do I receive university credit for an internship in Mozambique?

Yes, but you must confirm with your supervisor that your home university accepts this. You can purchase transfer credits to add onto your internship experience if you’d like.

During my internship, is it possible to receive any compensation?

Unfortunately, no. When working with a nonprofit organization, you will not receive any kind of stipend, but you can fund your internship in other ways. The wealth of knowledge and opportunities for both professional and personal growth that your experience will bring are invaluable!

QUICK FACTS

LOCATION: Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique
PROGRAM FOCUS: Marine NGO
TASK FOCUS: Research, Reporting, Monitoring, Education
LENGTH: 2-12 weeks
COST: From USD 1,900

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Be part of an innovative research team
  • Get involved in multifaceted marine field research
  • Contribute to important marine conservation work
  • Live and work in an absolute tropical paradise
  • Enjoy amazing travel opportunities in your time off
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.

GET STARTED

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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