RESEARCH ASSISTANT AND DIVEMASTER INTERNSHIP IN THE PHILIPPINES

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

CAREER DEVELOPMENT IN MARINE SCIENCE AND PROFESSIONAL DIVING, PLUS A CHANCE TO MAKE AN IMPACT

Gain practical experience in marine science research and receive comprehensive training for a career in marine conservation whilst studying one of the most biodiverse regions in the world. This is an ideal internship for talented marine scientists to use their expertise for the furtherment of marine conservation.

This organization conducts critical research on marine ecosystems in the Coral Triangle. They study coral bleaching, corallivorous invertebrates, pollution, with special focus towards developing community-based marine conservation strategies. Their primary function is publishing their findings in scientific papers and journals to involve the scientific community in finding conservation solutions. As well as this, they use what they learn to conduct outreach programs to inspire locally-led, evidence-based, conservation strategies.

As an intern role will revolve around leading underwater surveys monitoring the biodiversity of marine ecosystems. In this, you’ll expand and deepen your understanding of marine science, marine conservation, and the role of a research assistant. At the same time, you’ll be gaining valuable experience and career guidance for work as a professional diver.

Learning objectives:

  • PADI Divemaster certification with experience leading dives
  • An intimate and expansive knowledge of coral reef systems and marine life in the Indo-Pacific region
  • A practical understanding of Marine research tools and methods including 3-D reef modeling, diver operated stereo video systems, and the most up to date software systems
  • Experience leading underwater training and research dives
  • Communicating scientific findings on two levels: through scientific publications and through community outreach programs
  • International work experience as a marine scientist working in the nonprofit sector

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

Day-to-day your duties and responsibilities will revolve around conducting underwater research dives, analyzing your findings and tracking data. You will also have a fairly packed schedule of lectures and workshops to get you up-to-speed on Indo-Pacific coral, fish, benthic, invertebrate and disease identification.

Responsibilities

  • Conducting underwater research dives
  • Surveying marine ecosystems, cataloging marine species,and monitoring biodiversity
  • Processing, tracking, and analyzing data
  • Practicing scientific research using innovative techniques, various methods and an array of marine science tools
  • Utilizing state of the art image analysis software to collect data
  • Writing reports and papers for publications orientated towards the scientific community
  • Putting together information packages and educational resources for community outreach programs
  • Leading training dives
  • Teaching marine science research knowledge and skills

Training and lectures during your internship:

  • Divemaster training
    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

  • PADI Rescue Diver and Emergency first responder qualifications
  • Medical evaluation clearing you for diving
  • Passion for marine conservation science
  • Data-processing and analysis skills
  • Willingness and aptitude to learn about marine species and scientific research methods

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 your 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 a 3-month 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 6,356

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)
  • PADI Divemaster Positive Identification Card (PIC)
SCHOLARSHIP & FUNDING

QUICK FACTS

LOCATION: Bulak, Dauin, Philippines
PROJECT FOCUS :Marine Conservation
TASK FOCUS: Data Analysis, Monitoring, Research, Reporting, Education
LENGTH: Min. 3 months
COST: USD 6356

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Gain practical, in-field experience researching marine conservation science
  • Practice data processing and analysis using professional equipment and softwares
  • Develop an detailed knowledge of marine life and coral systems of the Indo-Pacific area
  • Scuba-dive up to 50-times per month (weather permitting) in one of the most biodiverse marine regions in the world
  • Earn a PADI Divemaster qualification
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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