A unique opportunity to boost tropical marine research in Belize

Situated at the heart of Belize’s snorkeling and diving paradise and part of the world’s second-largest coral barrier reef, Ambergris Caye offers unparalleled opportunities for marine research and discovery.

You’ll participate in monitoring one of the world’s oldest shark and ray aggregations within the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Working alongside our researchers and local fisher partners, you’ll collect data both from the boat and in the water by snorkeling or diving to assess populations of turtles, rays, and reef sharks, including the threatened hammerhead and bull sharks. Your efforts will directly support conservation strategies that guide protected area and tourism management in Belize.

Immerse yourself in the following scientific techniques:

• Species ID: Identifying marine megafauna, including sharks, rays, turtles, and piscivorous fishes, is essential for assessing marine ecosystem biodiversity. This process involves recognizing species by specific physical characteristics and behaviors, providing critical data for conservation. Accurate species identification enables scientists to monitor population trends, understand ecological roles, and evaluate the health of marine habitats.

• Underwater Visual Surveys (UVCs): Through rigorous training in species identification and size and distance estimation, you'll conduct standardized in-water visual transects, providing invaluable insights into the diversity and abundance of sharks, rays, turtles, and finfish.

• Baited Remote Underwater Video (BRUVs): Join us in the deployment and analysis of these ingenious underwater camera traps, offering a glimpse into the hidden world beneath the waves and aiding in the assessment of shark abundance, diversity, and distribution, alongside other mesmerizing marine species attracted to the bait.

• Longline: Immerse yourself in shark and ray conservation by assisting with the capture, tagging, and release of these majestic creatures. From baiting and setting longlines to collecting biometric and environmental data, you’ll gain invaluable skills in handling techniques designed to ensure the safe and responsible management of shark and ray populations.

• Turtle Tagging: Delve into sea turtle conservation as you learn the intricacies of safely capturing, tagging, and releasing these ancient mariners, contributing to our efforts to protect and preserve these remarkable creatures for future generations