Research Assistants (RAs) experience a unique opportunity to assist our Science Staff in the attainment and processing of all data collected from the Dauin Long-Term Reef Monitoring Project. This one-month course is intended as an introduction into marine conservation science.

Research Assistants will not only learn practical, theoretical, problem-solving and analytical skills that will enhance their prospects as future conservationists, but will learn how to communicate science to local stakeholders through school education and community outreach programs.

Skills Acquired

• PADI Open Water SCUBA Certification
• PADI Advanced Open Water SCUBA Certification
• Intimate knowledge of coral reef ecosystems and processes
• Intimate knowledge on Indo-Pacific coral, fish, benthic, invertebrate and disease identification
• Underwater field training in 3-Dimensional reef modelling, diver operated Stereo Video System (SVS), benthic assays, and reef impact protocols (coral bleaching, coral disease, drupella spp. and crown of thorns starfish outbreaks
• Data analysis of images using the most up to date software systems (ReefCloud, EventMeasure, AgiSoft MetaShape, RealityCapture, Gwyddion and ImageJ)
• ~30-40 training and survey dives per month (weather permitting)
• Experience working with Marine Scientists in a professional environment
• Communicate science through community outreach activities
• Career guidance and job placement training

Prerequisites

• Minimum 18 years old
• Medically evaluated and cleared for diving by a physician within 12 months
• No SCUBA experience necessary
• Pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Marine Science (or equivalent) is preferable but not essential
• Minimum 1-month commitment.
• Available to begin the Research Assistant program on the 1^st of each month

What’s Included

• PADI Open Water SCUBA Course (including PIC + Manual)
• PADI Advanced Open Water SCUBA Course (including PIC + Manual)
• 10 day coral reef ecology & physiology lecture series
• Workshops on Indo-Pacific coral, fish, benthic, invertebrate and disease identification
• Underwater field training in 3-Dimensional reef modelling, diver operated Stereo Video System (SVS), benthic assays, and reef impact protocols (coral bleaching, coral disease, drupella spp. and crown of thorns starfish outbreaks
• Data analysis of images using the most up to date software systems (Reefloud, EventMeasure, RealityCapture, and AgiSoft)
• ~30-40 training and survey dives per month (weather permitting)
• Marine sanctuary fees
• SCUBA equipment (you will need to provide your own mask, fins, snorkel and wetsuit)
• All necessary field equipment
• 24hr in-country support
• 3x meals Monday to Saturday
• Accommodation
• 24hr internet access
• Airport / ferry pick-up from Dumaguete

Tuition Fees

All prices are marked in Philippine pesos

* Those requiring Open Water and/or Advanced Open Water training will be required to arrive one week prior to the start of the Research Assistant program (begins on the 1^st of each month)

Not Included

• Flights
• Visa (beyond 30 days)
• Travel and Diving Insurance
• Additional drinks and excursions
• Recreational dives (available on Sundays)

Find out more here