Marine Biology Internship in the Azores: Whale Research and Ocean Monitoring

Duration

1 week to 3 months

Location

Horta, Faial island, Azores

Focus area

Marine biodiversity, field methods in marine biology and ecology, photo-identification of whales, sea turtle tagging, sperm whale acoustics

Internship price

512€ to 1375€ per week
(insurance included)

Your tasks & learnings at your
Whale Research and Ocean Monitoring Internship in the Azores

Join whale and dolphin research expeditions

Take part in 3–4 boat-based surveys per week to observe and record cetacean behavior, environmental conditions, and other ocean data alongside marine biologists.

Learn marine fieldwork and monitoring techniques

Receive hands-on training in cetacean biology, ocean monitoring, GPS tracking, photo-identification, and acoustic recording with professional research tools.

Participate in land-based and coastal surveys

Support coastal monitoring from observation points or assist in beach surveys to document pelagic species and marine debris.

Engage in data processing and analysis

Work with researchers to organize and interpret collected data, contributing to ongoing marine ecology and conservation projects.

Attend expert scientific talks

Join 2 thematic sessions on cetacean evolution, biodiversity, ocean monitoring, and the latest research findings led by PhD-level trainers.

Contribute to real marine conservation efforts

Help generate valuable scientific knowledge used to improve sustainable whale watching, ocean literacy, and marine biodiversity protection.

This hands-on program embeds you directly with marine biologists on active research
expeditions
. Your week will include 3 to 4 boat-based field trips (weather
dependent) and 2 expert scientific talks. You will be working around 5 hours a day.

Internship requirements

Age

18 or older (exceptions
possible with legal consent)

Education

Students or graduates in marine
biology or related fields

Languages

Good command of English
and Portuguese

Commitment

Minimum stay of 1 week (Weekly Programs – Monday to Saturday)

Attitude

Motivation, teamwork, genuine interest in marine science & sustainability

Our Azores Internship Program Options & Costs

A) Program Only
512€ per week


What’s Included: Full program 5 to 8 h a day, fieldwork training, scientific talks, taxes and insurance.

What’s NOT Included: Flights, accommodation, meals, and airport transfers.

B) Full Package (Program + Stay)
1375 Euros per week


What’s Included: 
Everything in Option A, plus one pickup transfer and one drop-off at the airport to the accommodation (Horta) and accommodation at the Porto Pim Guest House (subject to availability).

What’s NOT Included: Flights and meals.

Why Join?
Beyond building your resume, the data you help collect is actively used to improve sustainable whale watching practices, boost ocean literacy, and protect marine biodiversity in the Atlantic.

What our
Students are saying

Realize your potential with an international internship

Apply online

Complete our simple application form and tell us about your passions, qualifications, and experiential requirements.

Interview

If your interview is successful, confirm your enrollment with a tuition deposit.

Secure your internship

Collaborate in the internship placement process & accelerate your career.

Star your internship

Join us in shaping a brighter future. Let’s embark on this exciting adventure together.

Scroll to Top