MMOA Bursary for Aspiring Marine Mammal Observers

The bursary provides aspiring marine mammal observers, protected species observers and passive acoustic monitoring operators with the resources to develop their skills and expertise.

The MMOA Bursary for Aspiring Marine Mammal Observers supports student marine mammal observers and other early career marine mammal practitioners.

Jointly funded by the IMarEST's Don Bootle Fund and the Marine Mammal Observer Association (MMOA), the Bursary provides aspiring Marine Mammal Observers (MMOs), Protected Species Observers (PSOs) and Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) Operators with the necessary resources to allow them to enhance their skills and expertise through participating in relevant specialised training programs and / or by obtaining equipment.

This bursary aims to facilitate access to training opportunities for career advancement and competency development in marine mammal observation and conservation.

Who is eligible?

Individuals must meet both of the following criteria: 

  • The applicant must be a member of the IMarEST and in an appropriate category of membership

  • The applicant must be an Associate Member of the Marine Mammal Observer Association (MMOA)

The bursary can only apply to industry-specific training courses, marine mammal field survey internship experiences, or equipment. Such courses would include JNCC MMO training certifications or equivalent, field internships, work experience, and other relevant courses, etc. 

About the MMOA

The Marine Mammal Observer Association (MMOA) is a membership-based association with the aim of bringing together and representing individuals who work commercially and professionally as Marine Mammal Observers (MMOs) and Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) Operators to implement mitigation measures and protect marine life during industry operations. Further details about MMOA, its mission and aims are available on it's website.

How to apply

Applicants must complete the application form and send it to [email protected]

Appplicants must provide contact details for a reference willing to provide a written statement in support of their application. For further information, please see the criteria document

Applications should be received by 31 January each year.