Research Assistant in Croatia
Highlights
- Work in a biodiversity hotspot within the spectacular Krka river valley
- Opportunity to gain hands-on field work experience and learn a variety of survey techniques at an endemic-rich site
- Assist our team of brilliant terrestrial scientists with baseline biodiversity surveys to increase the known inventory of the Krka National Park
- Gain your PADI Open Water qualification on the stunning Silba Island; a tranquil, car and hotel-free island
- Undertake the Mediterranean ecology and survey techniques course in the heart of the stunning Adriatic Sea
Overview
Our Croatia trips are the only European expeditions that provide the opportunity to combine both marine and terrestrial research. The terrestrial site in the heart of Krka National Park, an area often described as Europe's most picturesque river valleys, is an endemic-rich area and the perfect place to learn a whole host of survey techniques. The marine site is based on the amazing Silba Island and is a brilliant location to learn to dive and gain your PADI Open Water qualification.
During your time at the terrestrial site you will be immersed in an amazing Mediterranean terrestrial biodiversity research experience. You will be directly assisting our range of research teams, alongside completing the Balkans wildlife and conservation lecture series and helping with data input and lab-work. The amazing diversity of projects includes standardised Pollard surveys for butterflies, point counts for birds, and acoustic surveys for bats.
From Krka National Park you will take a boat trip through the Adriatic Islands to the beautiful car-free Silba Island. Silba provides a great environment to gain your PADI Open Water qualification with brilliant visibility. If already qualified, or opting to snorkel whilst on expedition, you will take part in the Mediterranean ecology and survey techniques course, with a combination of lectures, land-based workshops and in-water practicals. You will assist some of the marine biologists with our ongoing research projects including Mediterranean fish community surveys and monitoring the impact of sea urchin populations.
- Accommodation
- Food
- On-site training
- PADI Open Water training
- Cost of international flights
- Cost of internal travel to and from the start and end point of the expedition, plus any hotels you might require
- Park entrance fees for the terrestrial and marine site
- Dive equipment rental
- PADI manual and PIC card (if completing Open Water Course) - $89 or £69 approx
- Travel insurance