Marine Mammal Research and Conservation Internship – Coastal Cambodia 

Khmer Ocean Life is a UK non-profit in partnership with local NGO Samaky Organisation in Cambodia, based in the coastal town of Kampot. The organisation focuses on supporting the conservation of coastal cetacean species (Irrawaddy dolphin, Indo-pacific humpback dolphin), dugongs, and their habitats, through research, capacity building and outreach. 

Khmer Ocean Life was founded by two experienced marine mammal researchers and conservationists, with support from the Royal Government of Cambodia’s Fisheries Administration. 

We are currently looking for marine mammal research interns to join the team from June 2024 onwards.

Project activities:   

• observational land surveys
• observational boat surveys with community fishers
• photo-identification
• social science
• data entry, processing, and analysis
• potential for aerial surveying using drones
• turning findings into reports and articles for peer-review
• responding to marine mammal strandings
• social media and content creation
• education and outreach

Basic internship training schedule

• Session 1: Introduction to Khmer Ocean Life
• Session 2: Research method training on observational land and boat surveying techniques
• Session 3: Marine mammal identification and behaviour training
• Session 4: Marine vessel identification training
• Session 5: Datasheet and data entry training
• Session 6: Drone footage analysis training
• Session 7: Theory test 
• Session 8: Photo ID training
• Session 9: Drone flight training

You are also welcome to conduct your own research or outreach project with us, depending on your interest, skill set and length of stay. 

Internship requirements:

We are looking for dedicated, motivated, and hard-working interns that would love to join our fantastic team of Khmer and International members. Everybody with a keen interest in marine mammals and their conservation is welcome, from University students, recent graduates, experienced conservationists and individuals who want to gain experience in marine mammal conservation. We are looking for those who can join us for a minimum period of one month and are happy to commit to early mornings for surveys.

Project site & fee description:

There is a small fee associated with this internship. The project is based in Kampot, Cambodia. The project office and intern accommodation are at the same site. Intern accommodation is fitted with everything you will need, it is very comfortable and right in the heart of the town. All marine mammal research training and accommodation is included in the fee, but not your food, giving you freedom with your meals and the chance to explore Khmer food as you like.

For more information about our work please visit our website https://www.khmeroceanlife.com/