Internship Highlights

Minimum Duration: 2-weeks
Maximum Duration: 12-weeks
Availability: All year round except for August and the two weeks around New Year’s Day
Fees: Starting from $1,950
Language: The internship is conducted in English
Schedule: Five days per week, 9am – 5pm
Location: Mesologi, Greece
Eligibility requirements: Must be 18 years old or over and preferably with least one year of undergraduate study completed, with a relevant scientific major such as biology, aquaculture and fisheries is desired but not essential. Interns must have a genuine interest in marine conservation and commitment to hands-on work and research activities at the research center.
University Credit: Cerca Abroad in cooperation with Webster University (Athens Campus) is able to offer a transferable US university credit option for this internship program. Learn more here.

Aquaculture and Fisheries Internship

This is an in-country hands-on program with provided shared housing and local team support.

Dive into advanced research in aquaculture, fisheries, and marine ecosystems with this comprehensive internship. Designed for students and graduates in marine biology, environmental sciences, aquaculture, and related fields, this program offers hands-on exposure to cutting-edge research techniques and innovative aquatic system designs.

Program Overview

Interns will collaborate with leading researchers and industry professionals, working on diverse projects that explore the complexities of aquatic ecosystems and sustainable fishery practices. The program offers a unique opportunity to engage with practical research across various disciplines—ranging from aquarium system design to aquatic animal nutrition and aquaponics. This immersive experience equips participants with valuable technical skills and scientific knowledge essential for a career in aquaculture or fisheries research.

Key Research Areas

1. Aquarium Design & Water Management

• Freshwater, saltwater, and reef aquarium construction
• Aquascaping and plant aquaria design
• Filter systems: biofilter functions, nitrification processes, oxidizing capacity, and water reuse
• Hydraulic parameters: Hydraulic Loading Ratio (HLR), recycled water ratio, and Hydraulic Retention Time (HRT)
• Water quality management and filtration efficiency

2. Aquatic Animal Research

• Study of ornamental species (e.g., angelfish, clownfish, koi) and commercial species (e.g., seabass, gilthead sea bream, prawns, Holothuria)
• Research on growth rates, breeding conditions, farming practices, and nutritional management
• Monitoring water quality parameters crucial for aquatic animal health

3. Nutrition & Feed Technology

• Research on feeding practices for fish and prawns
• Nutritional analysis of fish tissue (protein, lipids, ash, moisture)
• Development of customized feed formulations and digestibility studies
• Data analysis for feed efficiency and consumption metrics

4. Aquaponics & Sustainable Systems

• Investigation of nutrient removal efficiency and water quality in aquaponic systems
• Research on fish waste conversion, bacterial processes, and plant nutrient uptake
• Studies on fishless cycling, pH control, and system function indices
• Experimental cultivation of halophyte plant species

5. Abiotic Environmental Monitoring

• Water chemistry testing (pH, salinity, temperature) using advanced analytical methods
• Measurement of ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and phosphorus levels in fresh and saltwater
• Total Organic Carbon (TOC) and inorganic nitrogen analysis
• Chromatography and phasmatophotography for water quality research

6. Histology & Microbiota Research

• Sample processing from aquatic organisms: hepatopancreas, gills, and intestine
• Research on microbiota correlations with environmental factors such as temperature, salinity, and nutrition
• Techniques for anesthesia and safe sample storage

Why Choose This Internship?

• Hands-On Research Experience: Participate in real-world scientific projects and gain practical laboratory skills.
• International Expertise: Work alongside a diverse team of experts with international experience in aquaculture and fisheries research.
• Advanced Research Techniques: Access cutting-edge technology for water analysis, histology, aquaponics, and nutrition research.
• Professional Development: Build essential skills in data analysis, research methodology, and scientific reporting.

Who Should Apply?

This internship is ideal for:

• Students and graduates in marine biology, aquaculture, environmental science, and related fields
• Aspiring researchers seeking experience in advanced laboratory techniques and aquatic ecosystem management
• Professionals in sustainability and fisheries looking to enhance their technical expertise in aquaculture research

Program Benefits

• Research Collaboration: Work directly with researchers on innovative projects in aquaculture and fisheries management.
• Technical Skills Development: Gain hands-on experience with modern research equipment and scientific methodologies.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with international scientists, researchers, and industry professionals.
• Real-World Impact: Contribute to sustainable aquaculture solutions that support environmental conservation and food security.

Get Involved

Expand your knowledge of aquatic ecosystems and fisheries management while developing practical skills essential for a future in aquaculture research. Apply today and immerse yourself in groundbreaking research that contributes to a more sustainable future.

Fees include:
– 24/7 in-country support
– Airport pick-up
– Customized internship plan
– Fully furnished shared accommodation
– Local English speaking coordinator
– International reference letter
– Program & host city orientation
– Support before, during, and after your internship
– Sourcing and securing your internship placement
– Supervisor coaching
– Support to gain academic credit

Fees do not Include:
– Airport drop-off
– Local activities, meals/drinks (of any sort)
– International/local travel costs (incl public transport)
– Visa (if required), vaccinations
– Travel Insurance (mandatory), background check (mandatory)
– Any other service not mentioned

Important Things to Note:
– A deposit of US$350 is required to secure your internship
– The balance of your Program Fee is due 60 days before your internship start date
– Terms and Conditions apply
– To convert fees to another currency visit the XE currency converter
– Our fees are transparent with no hidden fees or extra charges