Virginia Aquarium Stranding Response Program - 2026 Batten Fellowship The Virginia Aquarium's Veterinary Science & Research Division is now accepting applications for the Sea Turtle and Marine Mammal Stranding Response Batten Fellowship. Fellow Application Deadline: 2/1/2026 For more information, including duties, position requirements, and how to apply, visit https://virginiaaquarium.com/work-with-us or email strandingvolmgr@vbgov.com with any questions. Position Overview: Virginia Aquarium Stranding Response Program (VAQS) Fellows promote the conservation of marine animal species through research, response, rehabilitation, and education. Fellows will be trained in all aspects of stranding response as opportunities allow. Stranding work is unpredictable, therefore experiences will vary by fellowship season. VAQS staff will provide as many learning opportunities as possible during each season. Batten Fellows are also expected to complete a focused research project overseen by a staff mentor. We work with each accepted Batten Fellow to select a project from a set of predetermined options based on their individual background, experience, and interests balanced with the available data and research needs of the program. Fellows are expected to work 400 - 800 hours over approximately three to six months, starting in May/June. This competitive position includes $15 per hour compensation to help offset personal and incidental expenses over the course of the appointment period. Housing in not provided by the Virginia Aquarium. Fellows are fully responsible for fulfilling all requirements of their home institutions to receive academic credit if applicable, and all details of academic requirements must be discussed during the application process. The Fellow is expected to be available 4 - 5 days per week, 8am - 4:30pm. Some weekend and holiday coverage is expected. Thank you, Joanna Daniel Stranding & Research Scientist Office: (757) 385-6489 jdaniel@VirginiaAquarium.com Stranding Response Hotline: (757) 385-7575 Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center<http://www.virginiaaquarium.com/> 717 General Booth Blvd. Virginia Beach, Virginia 23451