Mexico: Shark Internship Program – Dive into Hands-On Research and Conservation

Introduction

This project is with a nonprofit organization headquartered in Baja California Sur, Mexico, dedicated to the conservation and research of sharks and rays within the Gulf of California.

We lead the charge in marine education and shark research, recognizing the pivotal role of ongoing scientific inquiry and education in fostering lasting change and commitment to preserving our marine ecosystems. Through a combination of research and education initiatives, we aim to inspire, engage, and empower future marine biologists and community members to take meaningful action for the health of our oceans.

Our organization serves as a valuable educational and professional platform for students at local, national, and international levels, offering comprehensive logistical support to aid them in achieving their research objectives. Under the guidance of our experienced team, students have the opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research while gaining invaluable hands-on experience in marine conservation efforts.

Our mission is twofold: to conduct in-depth studies on elasmobranch species in Mexican waters and to foster opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students to engage in our ongoing research, advancing their knowledge in marine science and conservation biology. Additionally, we aim to raise awareness about the importance of sharks and other marine species in our ecosystems. Through our research efforts and educational programs, we strive to inspire the next generation of marine scientists and conservationists while advocating for the protection of these vital oceanic creatures.

Daily Life

Our shark internship program offers an unparalleled opportunity for students and volunteers to immerse themselves in hands-on field experience alongside our team of seasoned field technicians and shark experts.

Participants in our program engage in every aspect of our shark monitoring initiatives, gaining practical training in the field, attending scientific lectures, and acquiring experience in an office setting. With a maximum of three internship placements available at any given time, we ensure a valuable volunteer experience and ample opportunities for personal development.

Our internship program welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and levels of experience. Whether you’re a marine biology graduate, an aspiring early-career professional, or simply passionate about sharks and eager to contribute, our program provides a perfect platform for your involvement.

The Shark Internship Program offers a diverse range of activities aimed at providing participants with comprehensive experience in shark research:

1. Conducting underwater and terrestrial surveys to observe sharks in their natural habitat.
2. Performing health assessments on sharks to analyze toxicity and nutritional status.
3. Tracking sharks using passive and active acoustic telemetry techniques.
4. Participating in artisanal fish camp surveys to study shark abundance and species composition.
5. Assisting the scientific team with biopsy and blood sampling procedures.
6. Utilizing morphological and visual estimation techniques to estimate shark growth.
7. Analyzing the diet and nutrition of sharks to assess their health and condition.
8. Conducting habitat sampling, including plankton sampling, eDNA sampling, and habitat mapping.
9. Engaging in underwater and aerial drone surveys to study shark abundance, distribution, and behavior.
10. Implementing photo identification techniques and utilizing identification software.
11. Deploying non-invasive underwater video camera stations (BRUVS) for monitoring.
12. Conducting data entry and analysis using various statistical software tools.
13. Participating in outreach projects with schools and the local community to raise awareness about shark conservation.
14. Assisting with shark tagging trips alongside the scientific team and local artisanal fisherfolk.
15. Conducting pelagic shark monitoring to study species distribution and population estimates.

Travel and Accom.

You will be met at the local airport and transferred to the project.

Accommodation is provided on site, and you will be given a private studio apartment, with private bathroom and kitchen. Food is not included, however there is a super market nearby.

Requirements

• Minimum age 18
• Passion and enthusiasm for marine conservation
• Not afraid to get wet!
• Good swimming ability
• Ability to work within a team environment
• Minimum 2 weeks commitment
• Good English skills
• Necessary vaccinations
• Necessary flight & visas
• Full travel & medical insurance. Full assistance will be provided in getting everything you will need ready if you choose our Placement Support Package.

Costs

2 weeks – $1500 USD
4 weeks – $2250 USD
6 weeks – $3500 USD

* Check the latest currency conversions with xe.com
** All payments incur a 5% bank transfer fee
*** Placements are confirmed with a $250 deposit

What’s Included:

Project Fee includes;

• Airport transfers (Arrival & Departure)
• Accommodation for the entire duration of your stay (In our Research Centers facilitates)
• Scientific lectures given by our scientific team and our students
• Shark anatomy and Shark handing workshop
• Training in scientific sampling techniques (Blood, Genetic, bacteria tissue)
• Statistical training & Courses in a number of analysis software
• Training in field-based scientific monitoring techniques of sharks
• All field trip expenses (food, accommodation, park fees & boat expenses whilst in the field)
• An unforgettable experience in marine conservation with us and our affiliated partners
• Discounted SCUBA diving courses, free-diving training & first response certifications with our affiliated partners.

What’s not included:

• Flights to and from our research center
• Personal Medical Insurance
• Food (but we provide a fully equipped kitchen with a fridge, freezer, stove, microwave etc.. for preparation of meals)
• Travel Insurance
• Personal expenses
• Visas (if applicable) and vaccinations. Full assistance will be provided in getting all these arranged if you choose our Premium Support.

Premium Support Upgrade

We understand there’s a great deal to plan and organise for your trip. When booking a Placement, many of our participants choose to purchase our Premium Support Upgrade to benefit from the expertise, knowledge and experience of our Project Coordinators.

We can provide the personal advice you need to ensure your trip is organised with excellence and planned with efficiency; ensuring the very best experience possible. Read more about how we can help you.