Applications are now open for the Marine Institute Summer Bursary Programme 2026, a paid summer opportunity hosted by the Marine Institute — Ireland’s national agency for marine research, innovation, and development.
This programme offers undergraduate students the chance to gain hands-on experience in marine science, data analysis, technology, environmental monitoring, and policy research. It is designed for students who will have completed at least two years of university study by June 2026.
Participants will work on real-world marine projects that contribute to Ireland’s national environmental and ocean research priorities.
Key Programme Details
- Application Deadline: 16:00 (GMT), Friday 27 February 2026
- Duration: 8–12 weeks
- Weekly Stipend: €495.25 (subject to tax and PRSI)
- Interview Period: March–April 2026 (online)
- Programme Locations:
- Oranmore, Co. Galway
- Newport, Co. Mayo
- Dungarvan, Co. Waterford
Placement Areas for 2026
The bursary programme spans multiple disciplines, giving students exposure to both scientific research and digital innovation.
Marine Science & Ecology
Students may work on projects such as:
- Salmon genetics and scale analysis
- Fish stock monitoring and eel surveys
- Ecological research in Burrishoole
- Oyster and shellfish environmental studies
- Marine chemistry and ocean carbon data
- Phytoplankton diversity and AI-based imaging
- Fish health diagnostics and molecular research
Data Science, AI & Modelling
Opportunities include:
- Oceanographic data stewardship
- Remote sensing for aquaculture mapping
- Marine databuoy instrumentation
- AI-powered species detection models
- Data quality and management frameworks
Policy, Economics & Marine Planning
Students may contribute to:
- Marine spatial planning and reporting
- Mapping national marine research investments
- Ireland’s Ocean Economy reporting
- Marine socio-economic and policy analysis
Digital Systems & Communications
Roles are also available in:
- Website development and science communication
- HR digital systems transformation
- Dashboard development and workflow automation
Ideal Fields of Study
This programme is particularly suited to students studying or interested in:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Machine Learning
- GIS & Remote Sensing
- Programming (Python, R, Matlab)
- Environmental Sustainability
- Data Management & Analytics
- Marine Biology or Environmental Science
What You Will Gain
Successful applicants will:
- Work alongside professional marine scientists and technical experts
- Gain laboratory, fieldwork, and/or desk-based research experience
- Develop skills in data analysis, GIS mapping, molecular techniques, policy research, or digital systems
- Contribute to nationally significant marine monitoring initiatives
Depending on your placement, tasks may include:
- Genetic laboratory diagnostics
- Marine field surveys and environmental sampling
- AI-based image classification
- Satellite data analysis
- Policy and economic research
- Web development and communications support
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, candidates must:
- Be enrolled in a university, technological university, or national higher education institute
- Have completed at least two years of study in a relevant discipline by the programme start date
- Be available for the full 8–12 week duration
- Both national and international undergraduate students are eligible
Eligible Countries: Open to applicants from all countries.
Programme Benefits
- Paid, structured work experience in marine research and innovation
- Professional development in science, AI, sustainability, policy, or digital systems
- Opportunity to work within one of Ireland’s leading marine research institutions
- Strengthen future postgraduate or marine-sector career applications
How to Apply
Interested students must submit their application through the official Marine Institute website before the deadline.
Deadline: Friday, 27 February 2026 (16:00 GMT)
Early applications are strongly encouraged.
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