COMBINE EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING & IMMERSION IN A RICH MARINE ENVIRONMENT
Combine incredible experiential learning with immersion in a rich marine environment.
Secure a resume-boosting experience as you explore potential career options in Marine Science as an intern in the Cayman Islands. If you are a student looking for the perfect marine science internship abroad, then join us in this 3-month research field training while exploring the phenomenal marine life of the Cayman Islands.
In a marine research internship, you will be providing support to the Research Director and learn the technical know-hows working closely with Research Technicians and Manager in all conducted programs. You’ll have a vital role as the resource to all visiting scientists and providing logistical assistance in all activities – planning, preparation, execution, and clean-up endeavors. Our marine internship offers you massive opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Complete the AAUS course from a diver in training to a certified scientific diver
- Conduct independent project development and execution
- Have guidance and training in data analysis and scientific report writing
- Get helpful coaching sessions in scientific findings presentation and public speaking
- Make significant contributions on current marine research projects in the Cayman Islands
Roles & Tasks:
During a marine science research internship in the Cayman Islands your duties and responsibilities will include:
- Provide help on acclimatization experiments-focused delivery of research program, field, and laboratory activities
- Assist on marine research-related scuba dives and coral restoration activities as well as cleaning and maintenance of the nursery
- Contribute to technical research dives by helping as a deckhand when needed
- Help facilitate research dives by printing data sheets, preparing field equipment and supplies, loading and unloading the boats, cleaning and properly storing equipment after dives
- Maintain laboratory equipment and supplies, as well as tidying up and organizing the lab
- Record vital data and organize spreadsheets
- Attend weekly meetings with research team and station staff
- Analyze data when necessary
- Contribute to outreach initiatives and provide relevant imagery for publications and social media
Requirements:
- Open Water SCUBA certification
- Current DAN dive insurance
- Enrollment as an AAUS scientific diver in training
- Complete an independent project during the internship period
- Submit a final research report at the end of the marine science internship
- Give a public presentation on focus research area at a CCMI seminar
DESTINATION
ORGANIZATION
Marine Impact has partnered with the Central Caribbean Marine Institute (CCMI) to provide marine research internships in the Cayman Islands. CCMI built its research station on one of the stunning Cayman Islands – the Little Cayman – in 2005. It is a female-led institution hosting a variety of education and research groups, as well as university courses and international research scientists. CCMI’s research team is ardently studying forefront marine research topics including coral reef adaptation, acclimatization, and restoration, as well as cutting-edge solutions to repercussions of climate change and disease. The organization is assiduously operating to be environmentally friendly at all times, in all its daily operations.
WHERE YOU’LL STAY
This marine research internship will be hosted on Little Cayman, which is the smallest of the three islands that make up the stunning Cayman Islands in the Caribbean Sea. It is famous for its incredible scuba diving sites – one the world’s favorite, the Bloody Bay, and the Jackson’s Bight. Being the least populous among the popular Cayman Islands, Little Cayman is the perfect paradise for interns who want to stay away from the city’s hustle and bustle to relax and unwind. Its’ beaches are ideal for any intern who wants to be near the waves, lounge around wonderfully smooth and sparkling sand, or go for a refreshing swim under the sun or stars.
A Cayman Islands internship means warm tropical weather year-round. Summers are from June to October, which can be wet and hot. August and September are usually the hottest months. Winters are from November to May, which are windy and sunny with less rain. December and January are the coolest months, which may still be quite warm.
Marine Impact’s interns comfortably stay at the CCMI, an active marine research and education institution. You won’t miss home as you will be provided with everything you need for a home-away-from-home stay, which includes WiFi, hot showers, beach-front access, limitless ocean views, and outdoor area for socializing and star-gazing. Interns also enjoy a help-yourself breakfast and 2 freshly-cooked meals (for lunch and dinner).
PROJECT IMPACT AREAS
RESEARCH AND ANALYSIS
You will work alongside our conservation team to compile data into reports, maps, and presentations. Some of the techniques you will learn about include coral and fish identification, monitoring of threatened conch populations, restoration techniques, and terrestrial conservation. Your observations are essential for providing critical information that will influence conservation strategies that protect endangered and vulnerable wildlife.
These research sessions will teach you about data collection and compilation techniques that are used to influence conservation strategies. Conservationists and field guides can use this data to monitor the health of Little Cayman Island for years to come.
TROPICAL ECOLOGY
Physical conservation work is a vital part of wildlife conservation (and a lot more fun than you would think it would be), so you will have plenty of opportunities to get your hands dirty. Whether you assist in collecting rubbish from the beach or identifying lionfish gut content, the work you do is key to the survival of coral reefs and success of conservation in the area. It transforms the land and sea back into a healthy habitat where wildlife can flourish.
CONSERVATION AND EDUCATION
Sustainable conservation is only possible with the education and inclusion of all people that visit an ecosystem. Working with the local dive resorts, you will help us teach conservation education by attendance and participation in weekly public seminars in order to raise awareness around local and global conservation issues.You will also get involved in physical conservation activities organized by the local community that help us restore habitats and eco-systems, including cleaning local beaches or removing invasive species (Iguanas and Lionfish).
OTHER ACTIVITIES
BLOODY BAY WALL MARINE PARK
With the world-famous Bloody Bay Wall Marine Park right on our doorstep, going on weekend dives will be at the top of your list of things to do during your stay in Little Cayman. The sheer vertical walls host amazing biodiversity and is by far among the best diving in the Caribbean. Corals, sponges, tunnels, and vertical walls make up the landscape of Boody Bay Wall. Reef sharks, sea turtles, sting rays, and groupers – are the most well-known residents. But hundreds of other animals call the Bloody Bay Wall Marine Park home, so keep your camera ready!
EXPLORE THE SISTER ISLANDS
Rock climbing in Cayman Brac is a must do during your time in the Cayman Islands. A weekend trip gives you a chance to explore the sights on the Brac, both above and below the water. It is the second largest of the three islands. The highlight of this weekend retreat is climbing up the ocean front cliffs to the highest point on the Cayman Islands with the best viewpoints. Grand Cayman offers a brief reminder of modern life. The largest and most heavily populated of the three Islands, Grand Cayman has something for everyone. Spend a day at the Botanical Gardens or the Parrot Sanctuary, visit the Cayman Islands Turtle Center, or take a stroll down the famous 7-mile beach. If you’re in the mood for nightlife, explore the many bars and clubs along 7-mile and Camana Bay. For the ultimate indulgence, treat yourself to a spa treatment, a yoga class, or a gourmet meal at one of the many options available.
TAKE IT EASY
After the day’s excitement, you can relax on the beach, have a drink at a local bar, watch a movie, or enjoy a games night with the other interns and volunteers. Bikes and kayaks are always available for an afternoon ride or sunset paddle. Dinners on the deck are a highlight, as are the marshmallow roasting get togethers around the fire!
DATES & RATES
START DATES
January – March 2024
April – June 2024
June – August 2024
September – November 2024
*NOTE: Maximum of 2 interns available per 3-month session
RATES
3 months: US$7,500
PROJECT FEE INCLUSIONS
- Airport pick-up and drop-off
- Accommodation throughout your stay
- 2 cooked meals a day and help-yourself breakfast
- 24/7 support from experienced international and local staff
- Required equipment and resources for the project
- Full orientation on arrival
- WiFi
PROJECT FEE EXCLUSIONS
- Visa Related Costs
- Insurances (Travel and Medical)
- Flights/Air Fares
- Snacks, gifts, soft drinks, souvenirs
- Off-project Scuba Diving activities
- US$ 25 Mandatory Contribution donated to the Sustainability Fund
- Off-project tours or personal weekend trips
PROJECT REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Open Water SCUBA certification
- Current DAN dive insurance
QUICK FACTS
 |
LITTLE CAYMAN ISLANDS |
 |
ALL YEAR (January, April, June, and Sept. 2024) |
 |
3 Months |
 |
Marine Research |
 |
US$7,500 |
PROJECTS HIGHLIGHTS
- Gain invaluable knowledge about Marine Science Research
- Experience working with a dynamic and passionate group of scientists and educators
- Learn how to facilitate research dives, accomplishing an independent research project, and presenting scientific findings
- Get insightful experience working on technical research dives
- Build a research skill set that can be applied to a range of careers
- Enjoy exploring the picture-perfect paradise of Little Cayman during your free time
RELATED PROGRAMS
Underwater Photography & Conservation Internship in the Cayman Islands
5th September-30th September 2024
Little Cayman Islands
5-10
Join our field guides and conservation team on one the most pristine coral reef habitats in the Caribbean for the ultimate underwater photography and conservation experience.
