Oceans Research’s Marine Biology Field Course enables aspiring scientists and conservationists to work in conjunction with leading marine biologists as they undertake groundbreaking research on the charismatic marine mega-fauna of Southern Africa, including great white sharks.
Our research training program has been recognised by many international universities providing up to a full semester credits for one month with us due to the intensive experience obtained by the students.
Oceans Research Institute’s marine biology field research program provides a first-hand practical experience in marine research and conservation. Anyone with an interest in marine biology, conservation and/or education can benefit.
Our research is interdisciplinary ranging from biological to socio-economic studies of marine and terrestrial resource use in Southern Africa’s coastal society. Our shark field course focuses on long-term research projects like the population assessment of white sharks or the habitat use of many other shark species. But also bioacoustics of marine mammals as well as different approaches to biodiversity assessments. Similar projects work in conjunction on teaching research skills to our students, like how to use BRUVs, ROVs or drones in marine research and monitoring projects. We also teach practical skills, from what to do when a boat engine does not start, to how to fish responsibly in order to tag sharks. Furthermore, the possibility to apply the research knowledge our students obtain into our various conservation and awareness programs in local schools adds to the diversity of skills and experiences which can be obtained.
Here is two short videos regarding the training course: https://youtu.be/CktI1_VKhvU
