Next internship opportunity in early 2027
ANNOUNCEMENT: OPEN INTERNSHIP 2027
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.
Do you want to learn about handling sharks and how to monitor juvenile populations? Photo by Dario Bühlmann | © Save Our Seas Foundation
Applications only open to Seychellois citizens and residents.
DURATION: Three months (10-12 weeks) mid/end February to end May 2026 (exact dates TBC pending flight schedule)
PLACE OF WORK AND LIVING: D’Arros Island and St Joseph Atoll, Amirantes Group, Seychelles
COMPENSATION: minimum salary as per government regulations, room and board
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
The internship might even see you at the helm on a few occasions. Photo by Priya Didon | © Save Our Seas Foundation
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS
- 18+ years old
- Native / Fluent in both spoken and written English and Creole
- Completed secondary school education
- Excellent swimming skills and comfortable in the water
- Certified PADI Open Water diver with minimum 10 dives
- Demonstrated commitment to and keen interest in environment and conservation issues (e.g. school club, extracurricular activities, university enrollment 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
- Some experience in (remote) field work or research in the marine or terrestrial sector
- Good communication skills – Ability to convey clear, concise messages both in written and verbal format
- Physically, medically and mentally fit
- Basic understanding and skills in Microsoft Office and general digital literacy
Unique moments are part of the job. Photo by Henriette Grimmel | © Save Our Seas Foundation
BENEFICIAL QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS
- Certified PADI Advanced Open Water diver (or higher) OR ability 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
- Presentation skills
- 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
- Qualifications in 1st Aid
If you want to be part of this team, learn and grow, apply as per the guidelines. Photo by Robert Bullock | © Save Our Seas Foundation
APPLICATION
Individuals who meet the minimum qualifications and requirements are invited to send the following documents to SOSF-DRC Director Henriette Grimmel henriette@saveourseas.com and Research Coordinator Emma Weschke emma@saveourseas.com.
Please note: Incomplete applications will not be considered.
- 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 or recommendation letter/s (if any)
- Proof of dive qualification(s) (if any)
DEADLINE: 30th October 2026 (COB 17:00 GMT+4)
Interviews will be in weeks after the application deadline.
A PDF with all details can be obtained here.