Duration: 3 to 6 months
Start Date: October 2026 onwards
Position: Unpaid internship
Erasmus+: Erasmus+ trainees are welcome to apply.
About BMRS
Bantry Marine Research Station Ltd. (BMRS) is a privately owned marine biotechnology company based on the shores of Bantry Bay, Co. Cork. With over 20 years of experience, BMRS is a leading provider of marine research and aquaculture innovation.
BMRS operates advanced land-based and offshore cultivation systems for macroalgae, working with species including Alaria esculenta, Saccharina latissima, Laminaria digitata, and Asparagopsis armata. The company supplies seeded string to Irish seaweed farmers and biomass for research and commercial applications, while expanding cultivation activities to include Porphyra spp. and Ulva lactuca.
BMRS collaborates on national and EU-funded projects focused on sustainable aquaculture, seaweed cultivation, processing technologies, Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA), and innovative applications of seaweed biomass.
The Role
BMRS is seeking a highly motivated and organised Seaweed Aquaculture Intern to support a range of cultivation, nursery, laboratory and research activities.
The internship provides an opportunity to gain practical experience in seaweed aquaculture and marine biotechnology, while contributing to ongoing commercial and research projects.
The successful candidate will work across multiple activities and projects, both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary international team. Depending on experience and project requirements, activities may include seaweed cultivation and nursery work, monitoring and sampling, laboratory activities, experimental work, biomass handling and supporting research projects.
Who Can Apply
This internship is particularly suited to Bachelor's and Master's students, recent graduates and research students with an interest in seaweed aquaculture, marine science and biotechnology.
Relevant academic backgrounds include:
- Aquaculture
- Marine Biology
- Marine Science
- Environmental Science
- Biotechnology
- Biology
- Fisheries
- Environmental or Marine Engineering
- Other related disciplines
Students undertaking research projects or seeking practical experience alongside their academic studies are particularly encouraged to apply.
Previous laboratory or aquaculture experience is desirable but not essential, as full training will be provided.
This is an unpaid internship. BMRS welcomes students and recent graduates seeking to undertake an Erasmus+ traineeship in Ireland. Candidates interested in an Erasmus+ placement are encouraged to discuss the internship and available funding arrangements with their home university or institution.
Qualifications & Knowledge
Candidates should possess:
- An interest in seaweed, marine science and sustainable aquaculture
- Good organisational and problem-solving skills
- An ability to work carefully and methodically
- Basic written and spoken English
- A willingness to learn and work as part of a team
- Enthusiasm for practical and laboratory-based work
Knowledge of additional languages would be considered an advantage but is not required.
Application Procedure
Applicants are encouraged to submit:
- A 1 to 2-page Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- A cover letter outlining their suitability for the internship
- Where applicable, details of their Erasmus+ traineeship programme or funding arrangements
For further information about BMRS, visit www.bmrs.ie.
To submit an application, please contact us at information.contact@bmrs.ie with the email subject "Seaweed Aquaculture Internship".