Current vacancies at the University of Otago
See what current vacancies exist at Otago University
Note that at any particular moment in time there may or may not be a vacancy specifically within the Department of Marine Science.
Outreach opportunities for Marine Science students
There are other ways that students studying at the University of Otago can get involved in community engaged teaching and learning.
The New Zealand Marine Studies Centre (NZMSC) is always on the look-out for keen Marine Science postgraduate students to join the education programme as Mentors. Occasionally there are vacancies for part-time marine interpreters and aquarists. Because of the level of training involved a high level of commitment and availability is expected.
You could also mentor a student through a school science fair project, or help out at the International Science Festival, or showcase your research by doing talks or displays. A benefit of such activities is that you can log your hours and get recognition in the form of an Outreach Certificate from the University. If you are interested please contact the Community Engagement Coordinator, Tamlyn Somerford.
Email tamlyn.somerford@otago.ac.nz
Citizen scientists required
Find out what lives between the tides at your local shore! Marine Metre Squared (Mm2 ) is a citizen science project that anyone can help with. Participate and contribute to the Mm2 project by monitoring a 1m x 1m square patch of your local shore once every season. All you need to do is count the animals and plans you find and record them on a data sheet that can be downloaded from our website. This is the perfect project for students, community groups, families, school groups - anyone looking for ways to engage with and improve their local environment.
Visit Marine Metered Squared for details and to sign up
Teacher professional development
The New Zealand Marine Studies Centre runs workshops for teachers, and welcomes teacher participation in its school programmes.
If you are interested in learning more, please contact the NZMSC Director, Sally Carson.
Email sally.carson@otago.ac.nz
The Centre has regularly hosts Royal Society Teacher Fellows. The Fellowship Scheme, funded by the Government and administered by the Royal Society of New Zealand, offers primary, intermediate and secondary teachers the opportunity to improve their teaching through working in New Zealand based host organisations for 2 terms.
Find out more about what is involved and projects previous Fellows have worked on
If you would like to discuss the possibility of being hosted at the New Zealand Marine Studies Centre, please contact Director, Sally Carson.
Email sally.carson@otago.ac.nz
Volunteer opportunities at the New Zealand Marine Studies Centre
From time to time opportunities arise at the New Zealand Marine Studies Centre for volunteers to help with general animal husbandry and communication work or to take on specific projects. In order to keep a Marine Studies Centre and Aquarium going many different skills are required and you may be surprised to find out ways you can help us!
Please note that:
- Volunteer positions are unpaid
- Volunteers must be at least 14 years of age
- Volunteers must commit to at least four weeks full time or three months if working one day a week
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, email your CV and a letter of application to marine-studies@otago.ac.nz. Someone will contact you to let you know if they think they are able to offer you a volunteer placement. Due to being part of the University of Otago, all volunteer placements have to be officially approved by the University.