The Marine Institute, in partnership with the Strategic Marine Alliance for Research and Training (SMART), offers 30 bursaries for 2026 FEAS and INFOMAR surveys aboard the Celtic Explorer and Tom Crean. This is a unique chance to gain hands-on experience in offshore marine science, guided by field experts, while expanding your professional network.
Bursary Stipends
Participants will receive €100 per survey night. Travel to and from survey ports is not supported.
Continuous Professional Development (CPD)
Successful participants will earn 10 ECTs through the accredited ATU module AGFF09003 Marine Research Vessel Data Collection and Surveying (Level 9 NFQ).
2025 Survey Opportunities
Placements are available on key Marine Institute surveys:
- Irish Anglerfish and Megrim Survey (IAMS) – February to April
- Nephrops Underwater TV Surveys – June to August
- Western European Shelf Small Pelagics Acoustic Survey (WESPAS) – June and July
- Celtic Sea Pelagic Ecosystem Survey (CSPES) – September
- Irish Groundfish Survey (IGFS) October to November
- INFOMAR Seabed Mapping Surveys–April to September
Each survey provides valuable experience in fisheries biology, acoustics, seabed mapping, and more.
Who Can Apply
Applications are open to graduate and postgraduate students from Ireland, Europe, and the UK. The online application form can be completed HERE. Applications must be supported by CV and letter of support from academic or professional supervisor.
Application Advice
Guidance on competitive applications, CVs, references, and seafarer certificates is available HERE.
Testimonials
Read what previous bursars have to say HERE.
Contact
For more information, contact John Boyd at john.boyd@atu.ie.
About SMART
SMART is a collaboration between ATU, University of Galway, UCC, INFOMAR, and the Marine Institute, offering structured access to research vessels for students and professionals to build capacity in marine science.