Cetacean Research and Education Assistant

Location: San Juan del Sur, NicaraguaDuration: November 1, 2026 – April 30, 2027Benefits: Full accommodation and meals providedApplication deadline: September 30, 2025Organization: Association ELI-S – Science, Education & ConservationPosition Type: Internship
About the PositionAssociation ELI-S is seeking a Research and Education Team Leader to join our dedicated team in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua. This unique and rewarding opportunity offers the chance to live and work in one of Central America’s most biodiverse marine regions, supporting cutting-edge research and community outreach efforts focused on marine mammals.
The successful candidate will contribute to our long-term research program on the ecology, behavior, and conservation of cetaceans, particularly humpback whales, bottlenose dolphins, and pantropical spotted dolphins. Our research currently covers several key areas, including population abundance and trends, social structure and behavior, feeding ecology, and acoustic communication. The position combines both fieldwork and office-based tasks, providing an exceptional opportunity to develop practical research skills, gain leadership experience, and make a tangible contribution to marine conservation.
Main ResponsibilitiesSupervise and participate together with our team leader in boat-based data collection and assist with the maintenance of research equipment together.Ensure data entry and quality control of collected field data.Support training sessions for international students and early-career researchers participating in our Marine Mammal Research Training Program.Assist in educational and outreach activities, including those targeting local communities, fishermen, schools, and tourists.Participate in animal rescue operations, when required.Contribute to public events and awareness campaigns organized by the association.Support organizational coordination and logistics for the field team and ongoing projects.Represent ELI-S in a professional manner and embody our mission of science, education, and conservation.Training will be provided between November 1 and December 31st.
RequirementsMaster’s degree in biology, marine sciences, biochemistry, environmental protection, or related fields.Fluency in both English (spoken and written) and Spanish (spoken).Proficiency with standard computer tools (MS Word, Excel, Internet).Experience in Photo-Identification.Ability to work both independently and as part of a small multicultural team.High degree of flexibility, initiative, and adaptability to field conditions.Strong sense of responsibility, precision, and reliability.Positive attitude, enthusiasm, and willingness to engage with local communities and team members.
Desirable (but not required)Experience with marine biology, animal ecology, or field research.Previous experience in teaching, coordination, or leadership roles.Experience in Latin America or working with local communities.
We OfferFull accommodation and meals in a shared volunteer house near the ocean.Hands-on experience in marine mammal research and conservation (Photo-identification, Behavioral Sampling, Acoustics, Drone photogrammetry and Biopsy)Participation in educational outreach and capacity-building programs.A chance to lead a small international team of passionate students and research assistants.An unforgettable experience contributing to the protection of whales and dolphins in Nicaragua.
ApplicationPlease send your CV and a motivation letter (in English or French) explaining your relevant experience and availability to: 📧 [email protected]; Subject: Name_FirstName_Team Leader Application 2026–2027Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Early applications are encouraged. Please do not apply through Linkedin, only candidates per email will be considered.