Restoration and Research Internship

WiseOceans Ltd

WiseOceans Ltd

Indonesia

Posted on Mar 9, 2026

Restoration and Research Internship

Programme overview

The Livingseas Restoration & Research Internship is a four-week, field-based programme designed for marine biology students, graduates and early-career marine scientists seeking real-world experience in coral reef conservation. This internship prioritises practical research components over introductory-level training, focusing on strengthening field and analytical skillsets.

About the organisation

Our founder, Leon Boey, transformed his passion for diving into active ecosystem restoration after witnessing alarming coral and fish decline, due to a massive bleaching event.

Reef restoration is at the center of our mission; it is our core. The Livingseas Foundation is leading an ambitious initiative to create one of the largest coral reef restoration sites in Indonesia. This expansive project is located off the coast of Padangbai, a charming fishing village nestled in the northeastern part of Bali. Active restoration work at this site has been ongoing since 2020, and it is set to cover an impressive area of 5 hectares, making it a significant effort in marine conservation.

Livingseas is now a global name in coral restoration, with our efforts being recognised at the prestigious Blue Water Heroes awards, presented by Dr. Sylvia Earle. Recently, Leon performed a TEDx talk in Singapore, and was also featured in the storytelling hub of the Coral Restoration Consortium (CRC).

About the programme

Working side-by-side with the Livingseas Team in Padangbai, Bali, you will actively contribute to coral planting efforts and conservation programmes, in addition to ongoing research projects—collecting, analysing, and interpreting data. With small intake groups (maximum four interns), you’ll receive personalised training and mentorship. During the internship, you will build confidence as a scientific diver and develop transferable skills for careers in coral reef conservation.

What to expect:

  • Learn all about coral reef restoration and what it takes to establish and maintain a restoration programme
  • Learn how to effectively plan and execute a variety of standardised scientific survey methodologies, used for coral reef restoration monitoring
  • Learn how to analyse benthic, fish, and photogrammetry data using various software applications
  • Learn how to master your buoyancy and become an effective and reliable scientific diver by completing our scientific diving basic training
  • Record initial restoration metrics and collect scientific long-term monitoring data on the Livingseas restoration site
  • Work closely with the Livingseas Research Team, collecting and analysing real data for Livingseas and our collaborators
  • Immerse yourself in all aspects of reef restoration at Livingseas – assist our team with coral planting, site maintenance, coral harvesting and building artificial structures
  • Assist Livingseas with education and outreach programmes (based on bookings and availability), including coral planting workshops and Conservation Diver courses

Location

This expansive project is located off the coast of Padangbai, a charming fishing village nestled in the northeastern part of Bali.

Duration

Four weeks (extensions available)

Start dates in January, April, July and October (possibility of additional intakes upon request)

Costs and pre-requisites

Cost: IDR 25,000,000

Prerequisites:

  • Completed or studying a degree in Marine/Environmental Science or a related subject
  • Basic knowledge of Indo-Pacific reef fish + coral families (preferred)
  • SSI/PADI Advanced Open Water diver (or equivalent from another certifying agency. Can be completed at Livingseas for an additional fee (+ time)
  • Personal laptop

Recommended equipment:

  • Dive computer
  • Mask and fins

What’s included

  • 32 dives (22 Scientific training dives + 10 optional restoration dives)
  • Teaching presentations covering a variety of topics key to establishing, managing, and monitoring a reef restoration site
  • Training workshops on coral health, benthic, fish, and photogrammetry data collection and corresponding analysis software
  • All required underwater survey materials
  • Dive equipment
  • Lunch (6 days/week, except on days off)
  • Visa assistance and pre-arrival support
  • Airport transfer from/to Denpasar International Airport
  • Livingseas t-shirt
  • 25% off SSI dive courses with Livingseas
  • Career support and advice

Additional costs: Accommodation, Breakfast + Dinner, General Living Expenses, Visa Fees

How to apply

In most cases, it all starts with a simple conversation. To get started, simply send us a message on Whatsapp at +62 813 37681717 or send your CV to info@livingseas.asia, subject “R&R Internship”.

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