Intern Requirements
01
Passion
Interns need to have a passion for the natural world. Whether you're a marine biologist, student, enthusiastic diver, or shark lover, your shared passion for marine life and eagerness to engage in hands-on experiences make you an ideal fit for our vibrant and collaborative community.
02
Scuba Diving Licence
The sole prerequisite for participating in our program is a scuba diving license, as all our data collection activities occur underwater.
03
Not Scuba Qualified?
Become a scuba diver through our partner African Watersports Diving Centre. Email us for more information.
Intern Fees
The internship fee is R32 000 per month (approx. EUR 1 700, depending on the exchange rates). The program duration is flexible, with a minimum commitment of one month.
Includes:
Transfers
Transfers to and from King Shaka International Airport
12 Dives pm
Enjoy 12 dives per month in the Aliwal Shoal Marine Protected Area. (permits included),
Accommodation
Accommodation walking distance from the beach and Dive Centre,.
Training
Training in underwater data collection to gain Marine Biology fieldwork and data management experience.
Basic Supplies
We provide the basic house supplies, e.g. cleaning products, washing powder, and basic kitchen supplies.
Exclusive Lectures
lectures by Dr Sara Andreotti, Co-founder of the SharkWise Project, COO at SharkSafe Barrier (Pty) Ltd, and Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of Stellenbosch
Excludes:
Travel Insurance
You are responsible for organising your own travelling insurance.
Scuba gear
Gear rental is not included in the package, but can rent full gear from AWS for
R 1500 pm
Diving Insurance
Check out DAN Southern Africa for temporary dive cover.
Food
Each person have their own food preferences and habits, and is expected to cook for yourself.
Flights
We do not cover your travel expenses to and from South Africa.
Why pay for an internship?
Our internship is an intense training and learning experience. We aim to provide a platform to teach marine biology fieldwork and contribute to local scientific projects. The funds from this program contribute directly to the project's conservation initiatives and research efforts. By participating, interns allow the SharkWise Project to maintain high teaching standards, actively support marine biodiversity studies and conservation genetics, and implement sustainable practices. The fees are needed to cover the teaching and training service provided, essential expenses for equipment maintenance, research materials and the overall operational costs of maintaining a comprehensive and impactful internship program.
Accommodation
A breathtaking 180° sea view from our Intern house, which is within walking distance of the beach. We provide essential amenities for your stay: bed linen, towels, cleaning products, and kitchen staples like eggs, bread, milk, coffee, and fruits. The house comprises three separate bedrooms, each equipped with its own ensuite bathroom. The spacious kitchen and communal area have stunning views, providing a serene backdrop with occasional whale sightings just outside!
African Watersports Diving Centre
Our partnership with African Watersports aligns with their commitment to both exploring and safeguarding the Aliwal Shoal Hope Spot. Walter Bernardis, our Co-founder, also serves as the founder and operator of AWS. With over three decades of experience diving with large sharks, Walter has dedicated his life to advocating for shark conservation and the preservation of marine.
Intern Activities
Dive. Learn. Repeat
Our goal is to offer interns a comprehensive fieldwork experience in marine research. Interns will have the opportunity to dive alongside various shark species, acquire diverse data collection techniques, and immerse themselves in the abundant marine biodiversity of the Aliwal Shoal Marine Reserve. Our ongoing research concentrates on shark fin photo identification, underwater photogrammetry, genetic sampling, colour experiments, and reef biodiversity assessment. Since diving and data collection days are weather-dependent, our schedule adapts accordingly to process and manage the collected data. Fieldwork operates without fixed working hours, requiring flexibility to accommodate changes in plans.
