A comprehensive crash-course in Marine Science and Conservation
Investigate a career in marine science whilst gaining an expansive understanding of conservation through citizen science. This immersive educational program is designed to equip you with knowledge of an arsenal of research methods whilst providing hands-on experience in conservation and community outreach.
During this program you’ll work alongside a team of passionate marine scientists as you study and observe marine environments in order to develop and implement more effective means of their conservation. You’ll develop in-depth knowledge of marine ecology, biodiversity, species identification, data collection methods, and scientific research techniques. As well as this, you’ll be involved with a range of citizen science programs working to engage local communities in ocean conservation and bridging the gap between science and the public.
This program has a heavy focus on field work providing you with not only theoretical understanding but practical experience in real-world underwater research methods. You’ll regularly embark on underwater research dives collecting data on marine species and habitats to contribute to ongoing research projects. This will endow you with a comprehensive understanding of specialized marine research techniques and equipment such as underwater cameras, transect tapes, quadrats, and conducting underwater surveys and accurate data collection.
This organization is a marine research center based in the idyllic Simon’s town situated along False Bay, South Africa. At the meeting point of two major ocean currents from the west and east, the Benguela and Agulhas currents, this well-known hotspot for biodiversity is a significant site for marine science research boasting a variety of shark, cetacean, seal and fish species. The organization runs a range of research programs aimed to better understand marine environments, then develop and promote more effective methods of their conservation.
This organization has a special focus on citizen science, utilizing public engagement as a means of mass data collection whilst widening outreach for conservation awareness. They also actively collaborate with local initiatives, NGOs, and government agencies in a range of research programs and conservation projects. On top of this, they are committed to training early-career scientists in marine research methods so as to empower the next generation of ocean conservationists.
This program is designed to provide interns with a well-rounded understanding of marine research and conservation. Your first week is devoted to dive training and lectures introducing research methods. From then on, congruent with regular underwater research dives, you’ll spend time analyzing data collected from surveys, deploying and maintaining research equipment, and facilitating citizen science programs. You’ll need to be physically fit, familiar with scientific research and communication, and hungry to learn how to better protect our oceans.
Training and lectures during the internship:
Accommodation is arranged on a case-by-case basis with interns staying in local rental properties within walking distance from the research center. At the center, you’ll have access to study spaces, diving equipment, and a well-stocked bar. In your downtime, you can enjoy a choice of delightful restaurants and bars in the area, embark on hikes around the attractive surroundings, or make the short trip to one of the most thrilling cities in the world, Cape Town.
Make sure to visit your doctor and dentist for a check-up before yor internship and to get all the recommended vaccines and/or medications necessary to stay healthy. You are not located in a malaria risk area, so the people who live here do not take malaria medication.
There is internet access at the accommodation, but we also suggest acquiring a local mobile SIM from one of South African providers (Vodacom, MTN, Cell C, Telkom and Virgin), which are inexpensive and will make it easier to communication with your team members. For this, your phone must be unlocked for international use. You can use your own SIM if your network allow international use, however this can be costly.
Accommodation is self-catered and you will have a student shared kitchen with everything you need to prepare your own meals. You will be taken to the local grocery store whenever you need to get supplies.
You’ll be situated in the quaint town of Simon’s Town in False Bay, South Africa. This small suburb on the outskirts of greater Cape Town is nestled in a stunning area boasting exquisite beaches, incredible marine life, and mountainous surroundings. Based on a peninsula that splits the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, the water sees a spectacularly diverse range of marine life with a multitude of shark, cetacean, seal and fish species, as well as kelp forests and natural reef systems. Here you’ll find an exciting array of marine environments to explore and study during your internship.
The program starts every first Monday of the month between February and November. So this internship is NOT in December and January.
What you’ll pay (2025 rates)
2 weeks USD 2,750
3 weeks USD 3,520
4 weeks USD 4,620
Some of our most commonly asked questions for programs in South Africa.
During your internship in South Africa you can expect to meet people from around the world, as well as indulging yourself into the culture of this beautiful country! If you want to know more about what to expect, make sure to check out our top 7 reasons for an internship in Cape Town.
Yes! We partner with various activity organizers that can offer discounts exclusive to Roots Interns, for example, a road trip through the Garden Route and bungee jumping off the world’s largest natural bungee. You may also explore the country on your own and we are happy to give recommendations.
Yes! You are able to do a part-time internship with certain organizations so that you can continue your studies, while also gaining valuable work experience.
Unfortunately, no. When working with a nonprofit organization, your internship will be unpaid, but there are many ways to fund your internship. Your experience will bring a wealth of knowledge and opportunities for both professional and personal growth that are invaluable!
If you’re ready to apply for this internship, here’s what to do:
Fill in the application form (it will show in a new screen) which includes sharing your CV to us.
We’ll set up a call with you to go through your application.
If we feel it’s a good match, we’ll set up a call between you and the supervisor for this internship.
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.
Only once we receive payment of the deposit your placement will be confirmed.
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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ABOUT US
At Roots, we create the perfect balance between meaningful work and valuable learning through internships with nonprofits & social enterprises in Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America.TEST
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ABOUT US
At Roots, we create the perfect balance between meaningful work and valuable learning through internships with nonprofits & social enterprises in Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
CONTACT
UK: +44 139 269 0255
US: +1 617 500 6179
internship@rootsinterns.com
OFFICE: Cape Town, South Africa
SOCIAL
SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER
ABOUT US
At Roots, we create the perfect balance between meaningful work and valuable learning through internships with nonprofits & social enterprises in Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
CONTACT
UK: +44 139 269 0255
US: +1 617 500 6179
internship@rootsinterns.com
OFFICE: Cape Town, South Africa
SOCIAL
SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER
