Pacific Whale Foundation is now accepting applications for its Research Internship Program based in Maui, Hawaiʻi. This is a full-time, four-month paid internship beginning in March, offering hands-on experience in marine mammal research. The internship combines photo-identification, data analysis, and regular fieldwork on whales and dolphins alongside experienced researchers. Pacific Whale Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting whales and other marine wildlife through research, education, and conservation. In the office, interns will learn: how to input, organize, and quality-control data; how to photographically identify dolphins and whales; how to use database software; and gain a working understanding of the biology and ecology of Hawaiʻi’s marine wildlife. In the field, interns will learn: how to scan for and identify whales and dolphins, collect photo-identification data, and conduct behavioral observations of wild animals. Field days are weather dependent, typically occur approximately once per week, and can range from 7–12 hours in length. Requirements: * Possess a university degree or be an advanced undergraduate in biology, zoology, marine biology, ecology, or a related field * Demonstrate a professional and responsible approach to scientific research * Be proficient with computers and data entry (PCs and Microsoft Office) * Be willing to spend extended periods performing repetitive, detail-oriented tasks * Have a strong work ethic and be adaptable and independent * Prior on-water experience is strongly preferred Compensation: Interns receive a $1,000/month stipend and are responsible for their own travel and living expenses. Public transportation is available on the island. Application process: Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States or legally permitted to remain in Hawaiʻi for the duration of the internship. International applicants may be considered but are responsible for securing any required visas and documentation. Interested candidates should email the following materials as PDF attachments to research@pacificwhale.org<mailto:research@pacificwhale.org> with the subject line “Hawaiʻi Research Internship Application”: * Cover letter including your availability and preferred internship period * Resume describing training, experience, and relevant skills * Names and contact information for two references More details are available here: https://pacificwhale.org/what-we-do/research-internship/ Jens Currie (he/him) Chief Scientist Pacific Whale Foundation 300 Ma‘alaea Road Ste 211, Wailuku, HI 96793 Cell: +1 808-990-5544 Office: +1 808-856-8338 Fax: +1 808-856-8363 PacificWhale.org<http://www.pacificwhale.org/> We’re celebrating 45 years of protecting the ocean! 🎉 Join us February 9–15, 2026 for World Whale Day🐋<https://pacificwhale.org/world-whale-day-2026/> [cid:mkt_donation_email_sig_r3_500px_59742678-0de9-40fc-ac98-07ce516adf52.png]<https://secure.pacificwhale.org/forms/emailsignature>
