Research Assistant Program
Are you looking for the ultimate holiday adventure in Indonesia? Start your journey with Gili Shark Conservation, where you’ll be trained as a PADI Scientific Diver before joining the dedicated research team of NGO Gili Matra Bersama.
Work alongside marine biologists, instructors, social media experts, and entrepreneurs as they lead crucial marine conservation and shark research efforts around the Gili Islands. Our mission is to offer ocean lovers a unique, hands-on experience, combining practical fieldwork with in-depth knowledge.
We are proud to share with you that our Research Assistant Program won multiple awards and GoOverseas even rated us as the best marine conservation program in the world!
You can begin your Research Assistant Program on the 1st or 15th of any month, giving you the flexibility to join us when it suits you best. In addition, we offer special programs throughout the year, allowing you to dive even deeper into specific areas of marine conservation. Below, you can find the details and dates for these unique experiences:
Save the date
special editions of our research assistant program
What to Expect from our
research assistant Program
Explore our program
Become A Scientific Diver
and Conservation Specialist
Our research assistant program is open to everyone, from total beginners to experienced dive instructors. We are proud partners of PADI and Conservation Diver, who both offer a full range of training and certifications in marine conservation and research, all recognized worldwide. During your time with us, you will receive the following courses:
- PADI Scientific Diver Course
- Conservation Diver ‘Shark Ecology and Population Studies Course‘
- Conservation Diver ‘Sea Turtle Ecology & Monitoring Course’
- Conservation Diver ‘Marine Ecology and Monitoring Diver Course‘ – Available exclusively to participants staying 5 weeks or longer.
Learn more about all the PADI dive specialty courses and Conservation Diver courses.
Through our Research Assistant Program, you’ll train in the marine survey techniques used by real conservation scientists. Data generated during your training dives is contributed to the long-term research programs of our partner, Coral Catch Indonesia (Yayasan Gili Matra Bersama), who manage all scientific data and reporting for the Gili Matra Marine Park. Your participation directly supports their conservation mission.
Available Workshops and Training Sessions
* depending on your length of stay
Introduction to GSC
- Get inspired by what drives us and see how you can be part of something bigger.
- Discover our scientific objectives, and the impact of our research.
Coral Reef Formations & Zones
- Explore the fascinating world of coral reefs, including their formation and ecological significance.
- Understand how different reef zones contribute to the diversity and health of marine life.
Turtle Ecology
- Delve into the life cycles, behaviors, and habitats of sea turtles, key species in marine ecosystems.
- Learn to use software for turtle identification and monitoring.
Shark Ecology
- Study the role of sharks in marine ecosystems, their behaviors, and conservation challenges.
- Get hands-on experience with technology used in shark identification and research
Introduction to Marine Ecology
- Explore the world of coral reefs, including their formation and ecological significance.
- Understand how different reef zones contribute to the diversity and health of marine life.
Fish ID
- Sharpen your skills in identifying fish species and learn what makes each one unique.
- Put your knowledge to the test with two dives dedicated to identifying and discussing fish species.
Introduction to Coastline Ecosystems
- Explore how corals, mangroves, and seagrass are vital, interconnected players in our planet’s health.
- Learn about the impact of coastal erosion and coastal development to nesting turtles
Plastic and Pollution
- Learn about the threats of plastic and pollution and how you can be part of the solution.
- Get to know the methods used to assess coral health and contribute to important research.
Coral Restoration
- Discover techniques for coral nursery development and out planting to restore damaged reefs.
Substrate ID for the Gili Islands
- Understand the different substrates in the Gili Islands and their importance to marine life.
DSMB, Lift Bag & BRUV Deployment
- Get practical with dive skills that are essential for marine research and conservation.
Dive-site Mapping
- Learn the art and science of mapping dive sites, with practical applications during your dives.
Our Packages
We’ve designed a range of packages to suit your schedule and passion for marine conservation. Your program begins with the PADI Scientific Diver Course and comprehensive training in our research methods. Once your training is complete, you’ll have the exciting opportunity to work alongside the research team from NGO Gili Matra Bersama.
The longer you stay, the more experience and benefits you’ll gain. If you stay for five weeks or more, we’ll also help you advance your career in marine conservation—ideal for those looking to build a career in this field.
All dive equipment rentals are included in your package. If you haven’t dived in 6 months or more and have fewer than 10 dives, we recommend adding a Refresher course (900,000 IDR) to ensure you’re fully prepared.
You can begin your Research Assistant Program on the 1st or 15th of any month. With only 10 spots available in our research team, don’t miss out. Choose your package below and apply today!
| Certifications | Research & Diving | Living | Extras |
|---|---|---|---|
| PADI Scientific Diver Course | 8 dives a week | In country transport | Gili Shark T-shirt |
| Conservation Diver ‘Shark Ecology & Population Studies Course’ | 35 project hours per week | Shared accommodation @ HQ | Gili Shark Totebag |
| Conservation Diver ‘Sea Turtle Ecology & Monitoring Course’ | Minimum 3 workshops | Breakfast on project days | 10% discount on SPA treatments |
| Entry to the marine park | Free use of our kitchen @ HQ | Free dive gear rental | |
| Price for 3 weeks | $ 3,149 USD | ||
| Price for 4 weeks | $ 3,899 USD | ||
| Certifications | PADI Scientific Diver Course | Conservation Diver ‘Shark Ecology & Population Studies Course’ | Conservation Diver ‘Sea Turtle Ecology & Monitoring Course’ | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Research & Diving | 8 dives a week | 1 night dive | 35 project hours per week | Minimum 3 workshops | Entry to the marine park |
| Living | In country transport | Shared accommodation @ HQ | Breakfast on project days | Free use of our kitchen @ HQ | |
| Extras | Gili Shark T-shirt | Gili Shark Totebag | 10% discount on SPA treatments | Free dive gear rental | |
| Price for 3 weeks: $ 3,149 USD | |||||
| Price for 4 weeks: $ 3,899 USD |
| Certifications | Research & Diving | Career Development | Living | Extras |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PADI Scientific Diver Course | 8 dives a week | Weekly coaching sessions | In country transport | Gili Shark T-shirt |
| Conservation Diver ‘Ecological Monitoring Program’ | Minimum 175+ project hours | Assist in writing research project plans & scientific reports | Shared accommodation @ HQ | Gili Shark Rashguard |
| Conservation Diver ‘Shark Ecology & Population Studies Course’ | Minimum 6 workshops | Training and involvement in digital marketing | Breakfast on project days | Gili Shark Totebag |
| Conservation Diver ‘Sea Turtle Ecology & Monitoring Course’ | Entry to the marine park | How to plan the next step in your career | Free use of our kitchen @ HQ | 10% discount on SPA treatment |
| Free dive gear rental | ||||
| Price for 5 weeks | $ 4,649 USD | |||
| Price for 6 weeks | $ 5,399 USD | |||
| Certifications | PADI Scientific Diver Course | Conservation Diver ‘Ecological Monitoring Program’ | Conservation Diver ‘Shark Ecology & Population Studies Course’ | Conservation Diver ‘Sea Turtle Ecology & Monitoring Course’ | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Research & Diving | 8 dives a week | 2 night dives | Minimum 175+ project hours | Minimum 6 workshops | Entry to the marine park |
| Career Development | Weekly coaching sessions | Assist in writing research project plans & scientific reports | Training and involvement in digital marketing | How to plan the next step in your career | |
| Living | In country transport | Shared accommodation @ HQ | Breakfast on project days | Free use of our kitchen @ HQ | |
| Extras | Gili Shark T-shirt | Gili Shark Rashguard | Gili Shark Totebag | 10% discount on SPA treatments | Free dive gear rental |
| Price for 5 weeks: $ 4,649 USD | |||||
| Price for 6 weeks: $ 5,399 USD |
| Certifications | Research & Diving | Career Development | Living | Extras |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PADI Scientific Diver Course | 8 dives a week | Gain a leadership position in one of our research projects | In country transport | Gili Shark T-shirt |
| Conservation Diver ‘Marine Ecology & Monitoring Course’ | Minimum 280+ project hours | Weekly coaching sessions | Shared accommodation @ HQ | Gili Shark Rashguard |
| Conservation Diver ‘Shark Ecology & Population Studies Course’ | Minimum 10+ workshops | Assist in writing research project plans & scientific reports | Breakfast on project days | Gili Shark Totebag |
| Conservation Diver ‘Sea Turtle Ecology & Monitoring Course’ | Entry to the marine park | Training and involvement in digital marketing | Free use of our kitchen @ HQ | 10% discount on SPA treatments |
| How to plan the next step in your career | Free dive gear rental | |||
| Price for 7 weeks | $ 6,149 USD | |||
| Price for 8 weeks | $ 6,699 USD | |||
| + per week | $ 500 USD | |||
| Certifications | PADI Scientific Diver Course | Conservation Diver ‘Marine Ecology & Monitoring Course’ | Conservation Diver ‘Shark Ecology & Population Studies Course’ | Conservation Diver ‘Sea Turtle Ecology & Monitoring Course’ | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Research & Diving | 8 dives a week | 2 night dives | Minimum 280+ project hours | Minimum 10+ workshops | Entry to the marine park |
| Career Development | Gain a leadership position in one of our research projects | Weekly coaching sessions | Assist in writing research project plans & scientific reports | Training and involvement in digital marketing | How to plan the next step in your career |
| Living | In country transport | Shared accommodation @ HQ | Breakfast on project days | Free use of our kitchen @ HQ | |
| Extras | Gili Shark T-shirt | Gili Shark Rashguard | Gili Shark Totebag | 10% discount on SPA treatments | Free dive gear rental |
| Price for 7 weeks: $ 6,149 USD | |||||
| Price for 8 weeks: $ 6,699 USD | |||||
| + per week: $ 750 USD |
Understanding your Program Fees
You might wonder why you have to pay to participate in our conservation project. Let us explain…
We are only a small organization and are not in a position to cover all the costs involved in your stay. Your program fees are covering a large number of factors, such as food, tanks, rental of scuba gear, accommodation, courses, visa support and transport.
Your hard work and passion are valuable, but unfortunately, motivation alone doesn’t keep our projects alive. As a Sharkie, your fees have just as great an impact as your actions. By contributing to our project, you are helping to support our mission, and ensure that our programs are efficient and beneficial in the long run. You are also investing in your own training and development, so you can continue making changes in the world long after you’ve finished our program.
Based on our 3 week black tip reef package. For longer stays percentages regarding diving and courses might slight change.
Accommodation
During your program you will be staying at our HQ on Gili Air. We’ve put a lot of hard work and love in creating a place for you that feels like a home away from home. Click here to read more about our HQ and facilities.
Coral Catch
Did you know that our partner NGO, Gili Matra Bersama, runs an award-winning scholarship program for Indonesian women? Their mission is to empower 100 local women over the next five years to build careers in marine conservation.
Coral Catch: A Transformative Journey
The Coral Catch program is designed for Indonesian women who aspire to make a significant impact in marine conservation. During their nine-week scholarship, the Coral Catch Superwomen live and work alongside our Sharkies at our HQ, often sharing the same boat for research dives and coral restoration projects.
At our HQ we focus on more than just skills training, we create a supportive environment where everyone feels valued and can develop leadership qualities. Mistakes are viewed as valuable learning opportunities that help build confidence and leadership skills. We believe that when people feel they belong and lead with assurance, they are more likely to succeed and make a meaningful difference.
Opportunity to Collaborate
In 2025, we will train an additional 8 Coral Catch Superwomen, giving you the opportunity to collaborate with them during your research assistant program. Here are the scheduled training periods for 2025:
- Batch #9: January 5 – March 6, 2025
- Batch #10: April 13 – June 12, 2025
- Batch #11: September 7 – November 16, 2025
Join and become a research assistant
Ready to dive into action and make a real impact on ocean protection? Would you like to learn different research methods in the field of shark, turtle and coral conservation and practice how to collect and analyze data? Would you like to make your next trip count while having fun along the way? Apply today for our Research Assistant Program and let’s make a difference together in protecting our precious marine ecosystem!
