Manta Ray Research Internship

We regret to inform you that our Manta Ray Research Internship is temporarily on hold until additional grant funding is acquired.

Interested in a career in marine science?

Participate in our 2-week internship and bolster your CV with valuable research skills and research experience

HAMER is offering a Manta Ray Research Internship to undergraduate or recent graduate students pursuing a career in marine biology. While diving alongside these majestic mantas, interns will work closely with a University of Hawaii Ph.D. graduate to learn valuable research techniques used in data collection and analysis, while contributing to the protection of Hawaii's largest marine resident.

These graceful giants face serious threats worldwide from direct and indirect fishing, and other man made threats. This much needed research will contribute to the ongoing efforts to understand and protect Maui's resident manta ray population.

During your stay in Maui you will:

• Dive alongside Hawaii's largest resident marine species, the manta ray
• Participate in ongoing manta ray and opportunistic marine mammal research
• Receive training, practical experience, and lectures to help develop your skills as a field biologist

Learn valuable research skills such as:

• Photo-identification of manta rays and marine mammals as a tool for developing individual life histories, population densities, site fidelity, and behavior
• Paired-laser photogrammetry for measuring the body size of animals in the field
• Line-transect survey methods used for reef habitat monitoring
• Biospy sampling for population genetics and stable-isotope analysis
• Database Management
• Small boat operation, safety, and maintenance

Cost includes:

1. Housing during your stay on Maui (cost does not include travel to and from Maui )
2. Research dives
3. All tanks and weights (dive gear can be rented at $5/day per item from Dive Maui)
4. Small boat work
5. All training and lectures
6. OPTIONAL complimentary housing for one week immediately following the internship

Preference will be given to applicants:

• with an "advanced" level dive certification or higher
• who are in good physical condition and capable of lifting 50 lbs
• a commitment to pursing a career in marine science
• prior experience with photo-identification and line transect surveys

**due to the highly physical and academic nature of the internship, not all applicants will be eligible