Marine Biologist(s) – Education, Research & Ecotourism in North Sulawesi, Indonesia
Location:
Tongkaina, North Sulawesi, Indonesia (Bunaken National Park)
Organization:
Seabrains – A marine education center created through collaboration between Stichting Kehidupan Anda and Thalassa Dive Resorts
Contract Type:
Minimum 6 months commitment (with potential for longer-term collaboration beyond the initial period if mutual fit and impact is strong). Preferred start: March–April 2026
Main Description:
Seabrains is seeking one or two passionate marine biologists to lead on-site operations at a new marine education center in Tongkaina, North Sulawesi. The center aims to:
- Inspire students from local schools with ocean knowledge and awareness
- Promote understanding of the blue economy and career opportunities within it
- Facilitate research into coral reef conservation and restoration in Bunaken
Two complementary roles are available:
Role 1: Research & Coordination
- Lead collaboration with UNSRAT University (Manado)
- Support coral restoration research (larval settlement, reef monitoring, field methods)
- Drive fundraising for research projects and partnerships
- Co-develop the curriculum alongside local teachers from Kehidupan Anda
Role 2: Ecotourism & Education
- Deliver engaging presentations for resort guests and visitors
- Develop ecotourism experiences (e.g., dive safaris, ocean talks) to generate income for Seabrains
- Support education programs in local schools
- Contribute to the design and delivery of the Seabrains curriculum
Shared responsibilities:
- Community engagement and outreach
- Collaboration with local partners and stakeholders
- Teaching and facilitation for both youth and adult audiences
Requirements:
- Degree/background in marine biology or related field
- Diving license
- Socially skilled, entrepreneurial mindset; able to build partnerships and opportunities
- Comfortable teaching both children and adults
- Experience working with local communities in non-Western contexts (preferred)
- Passion for coral reef conservation and the blue economy
- Preferred: Certified Dive Master or Instructor (PADI or equivalent). If not yet certified, willingness to train locally with Thalassa Dive Resorts
Benefits/Conditions:
- Free accommodation for 6 months via Thalassa Dive Resorts
- Income through guest presentations (estimated €600+/month)
- Work in one of Indonesia's most biodiverse marine environments
- Access to dive operations, local networks, and community programs
Support team includes:
- Simone (Founder of Kehidupan Anda & Thalassa Dive Resorts)
- Rosanne (Ecosystem restoration, education & storytelling)
- Peter (Co-founder of Reefodivers Diani; eco dive base & coral restoration)
- Arjen (Promotion & web development)
- Andreas Roeroe (Marine biologist & research support)
- Gabriel Makasala (School & education coordinator)
- Henry Johanis (Marine conservationist & field instructor)
How to Apply:
Contact Peter Vodegel
📱 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-vodegel/
Signal / WhatsApp: +31 6 38217486
🌐 https://seabrains.org/vacancies/
Deadline: Applications reviewed on a rolling basis — early applications are encouraged
