Location:

Pythagoreion, Greece

Program Type:

Volunteer Abroad

Degree Level:

Undergraduate

Work Types:

Animals, Education, Environment

Duration:

4-6 months

Program Overview

Program Description:

Archipelagos Institute of Marine Conservation Team is pleased to announce that the recruitment process for our Winter/Spring 2017Internship projects has just begun. Students and recent graduates are invited to join our research efforts in the Aegean Sea islands.

The Aegean Sea supports an exceptional biodiversity, including rare and protected marine habitats and species. For over a decade, Archipelagos has collected data and monitored important ecosystems of the Aegean, assessing habitats and populations, as well as the factors impacting them. This knowledge enables the development of successful and targeted management and conservation plans. Current research and projects focus on several fields of activity:

1) Visual-census surveys on littoral zone ecosystems assessing fish, algae and invertebrate biodiversity, and the factors impacting them (e.g. tourism, pollution).

2) Mapping and ecological assessment of Posidonia oceanica meadows and coralligene reefs.

3) Study of marine mammal populations (migration, ecology, threats) through visual-census and acoustic observation.

4) Risk assessment of maritime traffic in the Aegean, development of management proposals.

5) Collection of information in related conservation activities for the development of environmental awareness campaigns within the local communities and the wider public.

6) Other projects that are currently running are Marine Bird research which has developed a protocol to collect data on seabirds and migration flocks. This research is completed during marine mammal boat surveys and land surveys. The data collect on the boat and land surveys are going towards data set and it is hope that interns develop their own projects from this data set.
This internship will include some of the following:

• Boat-based surveys (weather dependent) monitoring populations. 
• Photo-identification and matching techniques. 
• Collecting environmental and anthropogenic data. 
• Gathering acoustic data.
•  Data entry and analysis. 
• Raising awareness through education. 
• Utilizing ArcGIS to map populations. 
• Questionnaire-based surveys 

The work of Archipelagos; Institute of Marine Conservation, is built upon a strong and enthusiastic volunteer team. We are therefore seeking applicants that are motivated and have a strong desire to protect and conserve the natural environment. You must be conscientious and highly motivated, able to work both individually and as part of a dynamic, multi-cultural team of people from around the world. You will be working on a variety of projects related to your placement type and so must have good time management skills, with the ability to meet deadlines, along with excellent organizational and self-management skills. Candidates must have a good eye for detail and have a high standard of work presentation. An in-depth knowledge and understanding of the English language and grammar system, being able to speak, read and write confidently is crucial. Further essential requirements include computer proficiency in Microsoft Office Programs. Previous experience relating to your placement is preferable, but not required.

Scheduled time frame: November - March 2017 but starting date could be negotiable. 

*As a non-profit organization Archipelagos cannot cover the living and working cost of the interns. Therefore, all interns will need to cover the monthly placement fees of 650 euros. This covers accommodation, full board, use of equipment, use of the research boats, transport for working purposes, Greek language lessons etc. Travelling costs are NOT included in this price and are covered by the participant.

Additional Program Information

Scholarships:

No