Applications are now open for the 2026 Summer Bursary Programme at Ireland’s national agency for marine research, innovation, and development. The programme offers undergraduate students the opportunity to gain paid, hands-on experience across a wide range of marine science, technology, data, and policy-focused projects.

Designed for students who will have completed at least two years of study by June 2026, the bursaries provide practical exposure to real-world marine research and national-level environmental initiatives.

Key Details

• Application Deadline: 16:00 (GMT), Friday 27 February 2026

• Duration: 8–12 weeks (depending on the role)

• Weekly Stipend: €495.25 (subject to tax and PRSI)

• Interview Period: March–April 2026 (online)

• Locations:

  • Oranmore, Co. Galway

  • Newport, Co. Mayo

  • Dungarvan, Co. Waterford

Areas of Placement (2026)

The 2026 programme includes opportunities across multiple disciplines, including:

Marine Science & Ecology

• Salmon genetics and scale analysis

• Fish stock census and eel monitoring

• Ecological monitoring in Burrishoole

• Oyster and shellfish environmental research

• Marine chemistry and ocean carbon data

• Phytoplankton diversity and AI imaging

• Fish health and molecular diagnostics

Data, AI & Modelling

• Oceanographic data stewardship

• Remote sensing aquaculture footprint development

• Marine databuoy instrumentation

• Visual census using AI species detection models

• Data management quality framework implementation

Policy, Economics & Marine Planning

• Marine spatial planning data reporting

• Mapping marine research investments

• Ireland’s Ocean Economy reporting

• Marine socioeconomics and policy analysis

Digital, Web & Systems

• Website development and science communications

• HR digital transformation and data systems

• Dashboard development and automation support

Many roles are particularly suited to students with interests in:

• Artificial Intelligence

• Machine Learning

• GIS & Remote Sensing

• Programming (Python, R, Matlab)

• Data management and analytics

• Environmental sustainability

Programme Experience

Successful applicants will:

• Work alongside full-time marine scientists, analysts, and technical teams

• Gain practical laboratory, field, and/or desk-based experience

• Develop skills in data analysis, reporting, GIS mapping, molecular techniques, or digital systems

• Contribute to nationally significant marine monitoring and research initiatives

Depending on the role, students may engage in:

• Laboratory diagnostics and genetic analysis

• Field surveys and marine sampling

• Environmental monitoring

• AI-based image classification

• Satellite data processing

• Policy research and economic analysis

• Web development and communications projects

Students interested in marine science, sustainability, environmental data, aquaculture, digital systems, or marine policy are strongly encouraged to apply before the February 2026 deadline.

Don't miss out on the application deadline which is Friday 27 February 2026.