Join our team in 2025!
The natural environment of D’Arros Island and St Joseph Atoll is among the most ecologically healthy and unique in Seychelles and in the world. More sea turtles come to nest on the beaches, more sharks, rays and fishes swarm over the coral reefs and more seabirds nest and roost in the trees than at any other island in the Amirantes Group. The Save Our Seas Foundation D’Arros Research Centre (SOSF–DRC) is tasked with preserving and showcasing the ecological integrity of these islands and their surrounding marine environment through research, monitoring, restoration and education.
The Save Our Seas Foundation (SOSF) is offering training opportunities and is looking for one:
Research Intern for the SOSF D’Arros Research Centre
Are you a young Seychellois passionate about our terrestrial and marine environments and willing to learn about conservation to help preserve our natural ecosystems? Now is your chance to apply for a three-month traineeship at the D’Arros Research Centre where you will be an active member of the team, helping in all research activities around D’Arros and St Joseph Atoll.
Applications only open to Seychellois citizens and residents. The position comes with free room and board and an allowance.
DURATION: Three months (12-14 weeks) (exact dates TBC with final candidate) between March-June 2025
PLACE OF WORK AND LIVING: D’Arros Island and St Joseph Atoll, Amirantes Group, Seychelles
COMPENSATION: room and full board plus minimum salary as per government regulations
Research intern Amy Andre helping to collect a plankton pull sample during a manta survey. Photo by Henriette Grimmel | © Save Our Seas Foundation
OVERVIEW OF MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Assist with and participate in all core and targeted marine and terrestrial research projects
- Assist with data entry and data management
- Help in maintaining lab buildings, field camp, vehicles, boats, lab equipment, dive gear and other DRC infrastructure and equipment
- Assist with logistical and administrative tasks including but not limited to social media posts, writing of blogs, reports
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS
- 18+ years old
- Native / Fluent in both spoken and written English
- Completed secondary school education
- Good swimming skills and comfortable in the water
- Demonstrated commitment to and keen interest in environment and conservation issues (e.g. school club, extracurricular activities, university enrolment plans etc.)
- Ability to share living space with others
- Ability and willingness to work long hours in the field when required
- Ability to actively contribute to tasks when working both independently and as a team member
- Ability to respond to difficult, stressful or sensitive situations in a way that reduces or minimizes potential conflict, strives to maintain good working relationships characterized by respect and mutual regard
- Professional behaviour and appearance – Self-motivated, organized
- Good communication skills – Ability to convey clear, concise messages both in written and verbal format
- Physically, medically and mentally fit (Ability to live in a remote area away from family and friends)
- Basic understanding and skills in Microsoft Office
- Good presentation skills
Research intern Alana Robert taking measurements of a juvenile shark in the St Joseph Atoll. Photo by Henriette Grimmel | © Save Our Seas Foundation
BENEFICIAL QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS
- Certified PADI Open Water diver (or higher) OR willingness to get certified before arrival
- Powerboat certification or skipper skills
- Completed tertiary/post-secondary education (e.g. maritime academy, University BSc)
- Data management experience
- Social media experience
- Proficiency in other languages
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively in the field under changing and challenging conditions
- Experience in (remote) field work in the marine or terrestrial sector
- Demonstrated intent to pursue research or conservation work in the future in Seychelles
- Qualification in 1st Aid
Research intern Kimberlie Chang-Pen-Tive helping take measurements of juvenile Aldabra Giant Tortoises. Photo by Ellie Moulinie | © Save Our Seas Foundation
APPLICATION
Individuals who meet the minimum qualifications and requirements are invited to send the following documents to Program Director Henriette Grimmel henriette@saveourseas.com and Research Director Robert Bullock robert@saveourseas.com:
- Cover letter explaining motivation for the role and intentions for the future (in PDF format)
- Full CV/Resume including details of two contactable references (in PDF format)
- Copy of ID Card
- Reference letter/s (if any)
- Proof of dive qualification (if any)
DEADLINE: 10th November, 2024 (COB 17:00 GMT+4)
Interviews will be in weeks after the application deadline.
You can also download the application details here.