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Limited Positions Still Available for Winter/Spring 2021 

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Researchers, young graduates, students and volunteers with a background in sciences or communications are welcome to join the Archipelagos team on the Aegean islands! Here they have the opportunity to take part in multidisciplinary field research and high-priority conservation projects, collecting data and supporting the work of the research teams, while enriching their knowledge and improving practical skills. Possible project areas include: Marine Mammal Research, GIS Applications for Conservation, Marine Ecology, Micro plastics Research, Environmental Policy, and Media & PR for Conservation.

In response to COVID-19, all projects are currently based on the island of Lipsi in the southeastern Aegean Sea, or on board Archipelagos’ research boats “Aegean Explorer” and “Nautilos”, on which we extend our marine conservation work via research trips that cover various other Aegean Sea islands and waters of the Aegean Sea.

Participants gain valuable field research experience on key fields of marine conservation, while at the same time contributing directly towards the protection of the unique marine ecosystems of the Aegean.
All internships are geared at developing your leadership, independent research and study skills, allowing you to develop a variety of abilities, which can improve your future job prospects.

During the 2020/21 academic year, students who are enrolled in online university courses can follow a flexible on-site internship schedule to accommodate both their university course and the on-site internship.

To apply, please send your motivation letter, your CV, a copy of your resume, cover letter and one reference letter (if available) to [email protected]

Marine Mammal Research & Conservation

On board Archipelagos’ research boats you will be involved in monitoring cetacean, Mediterranean monk seal and sea turtle populations through visual and bioacoustic surveys.
The Aegean Sea sustains some of the most important remaining populations of marine mammals in the Mediterranean. However, limited scientific data is available on their populations and this region is in desperate need of protection, as it is subjected to increasing anthropogenic threats. Archipelagos’ aim is to cover the knowledge gaps by monitoring the habitat structure and population dynamics of marine mammals, as well as by quantifying the impacts of anthropogenic threats. This is required for the much-needed conservation strategies and actions.

Research & Conservation on board the “Aegean Explorer”

The “Aegean Explorer” has been the main research boat of Archipelagos since the spring of 2019. It is a 22m motor boat equipped with an array of important scientific tools, including a multibeam sonar, structure scanner, biomass scanner, ROV, camera system that can reach up to 1500m depth, an on-board lab and many more. With the capacity to host up to 22 crew members, it allows the Archipelagos team to extend the research and conservation work in various parts of the Greek Seas, during targeted research expeditions of short or longer duration.
Following data collection at sea, we normally reach the port of a nearby island in order to have workgroup meetings on board, with members of the local communities and authorities on the local conservation priorities. We also offer on-board environmental education activities to the students and teachers from the islands’ schools, sharing also with them the results of the recently completed surveys.

Applied GIS & Remote-Sensing for Marine Conservation

Geo-information is a key tool in providing answers to complex issues concerning the conservation of our environment, as spatial analysis provides a better understanding of habitats and species. In order to achieve effective environmental preservation in the eastern Aegean Islands, habitats (e.g. seagrass, coralligenous reefs, wetlands), species (e.g. dolphins, whales, fish, seals, jackals, chameleons, flora) and threats need to be mapped and analysed in detail. Through boat-based surveys and kayak based surveys, using an array of scientific equipment Archipelagos GIS interns collect various spatial data which is then assessed with the purpose of presenting distribution models. Currently, the focus of the GIS team is centred around mapping seagrass meadow distribution and habitat suitability models for cetaceans, as well as maps assessing the risk of shipping accidents.

 

Aegean Marine Life Sanctuary

Since 2019 the very important endeavour for the creation of the Aegean Marine Life Sanctuary (AMLS) is progressing very fast. AMLS has 3 parallel aims as it will function as
- a vet clinic for wild dolphins/seals/turtles in need - aiming to eventually cover rehabilitation needs for marine life in most of the Aegean Sea,
- a natural enclosed bay where rescued dolphins, that were previously held in captivity, will be rescued in the long-term,
- a research centre where a lot of innovative marine research currently takes place - right now we are experimenting on underwater replanting of seagrass meadows, artificial reefs, monitoring of climate change responses and how Posidonia seagrass reverses effects of climate change, and many more.
Interns who join this project take part in numerous research and communication projects related to the creation of the Aegean Marine Life Sanctuary, while they are also welcome to take part in the actual construction process if interested!

Environmental Policy

Interns who want to gain experience in the real-world applications of environmental policy with a focus on marine ecosystems and species, have the unique opportunity to join a marine conservation effort and work alongside environmental researchers in key conservation projects. This may relate to the protection of critical habitats such as seagrass meadows and coralligenous reefs from the increasing human threats, to the protection of key species e.g. marine mammals, or to halt destructive fishing practices. The reports produced as a result of this internship will be used to combat environmental crimes or to develop environmental management and conservation strategies.

Research on Microplastics, Marine Litter & Water Quality

The Archipelagos’ microplastics lab focuses on studies that assess and quantify microplastics and macroplastic pollution that poses an increasing threat to marine ecosystems and species. Such contamination may also impact the health of people living on the islands and coastal regions of the eastern Mediterranean. The primary areas of focus that you would be involved in are conducting microplastic assessments in water, sediment and the tissues of fish and invertebrates as well as marine mammals and turtles that may be stranded in the region.
Research takes place on Lipsi research base as well as on board the “Aegean Explorer”

Media & Public Relations for Environmental Conservation

Archipelago's research and conservation endeavours can be successful only if they are shared with and have the support of the local communities and the wider public. Our media and public relations team creates posters, leaflets, animations and documentaries, while also using social media in many ways in order to inform and inspire the wider public to take an active role for the conservation of our seas.
Working closely with Archipelagos’ research teams, the members of the media team work to raise awareness and inspire the public to take an active role for the protection of our seas! Current projects you might be involved with, are creating informational videos for key conservation projects, collection of photographic and video material, writing of articles, developing awareness campaigns, writing social media posts, design of leaflets, posters, infographics and many more

Terrestrial Research & Conservation Projects

Not Available during Summer 2020

The islands of the eastern Aegean are home to rich flora and fauna biodiversity . Thick pine forests, dense oak woods and green riparian valleys, linked to rare island freshwater ecosystems can be found here, alongside garrigue and maquis types of vegetation. Samos is the only island in the Mediterranean, where golden jackals can be found and the only place in Greece where Mediterranean chameleons still survive. The island of Ikaria supports an ancient holm oak forest, which is more than 500 years old. The surrounding islands and islets are important transit stations, feeding grounds and breeding spots for a large number of protected birds, like flamingos, Eleonora’s falcons and Audouin’s gulls. Archipelagos aims to protect these species by collecting and analysing data in order to assess human impacts on these ecosystems. As part of the terrestrial team, you will be involved in collecting data on the populations of various species, including the Mediterranean chameleon, the golden jackal, and the greater flamingo using visual surveys and diet analysis (for jackals).

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