The Marine Institute’s research centres in Oranmore, Co Galway, and Newport, Co Mayo, have opened their doors to 18 university students this month as part of the 2025 Summer Bursary Programme.

Now in its third decade, the bursary scheme offers undergraduates eight to twelve weeks of practical experience alongside leading Irish marine scientists and researchers. From fish rearing and ecological monitoring to machine learning and ocean economy analysis, this year’s placements cover a wide sweep of the marine world.

Students will work across departments on tasks such as fisheries sampling, data management, species identification, and the preparation of oceanographic equipment for sea missions. Already, participants are hailing the programme as a vital bridge between academic theory and real-world marine science.

“My bursary has allowed me to gain a real insight into the work being done at the Institute,” said Aisling English, a bursar in Fisheries Sampling. “Helping prepare the RV Celtic Explorer and developing lab skills has really boosted my confidence and experience in the marine sector.”

Fellow bursar Aoife Quinn, working in Data Management, added: “Meeting other students with shared interests and getting to upskill in a professional research setting has been the highlight of my summer.”

As part of the experience, students will present their work at a seminar day attended by Marine Institute staff, showcasing posters and sharing knowledge gained throughout the placement.

Dr Rick Officer, CEO of the Marine Institute, praised the value of the long-running scheme: “For over 30 years, the Bursary Programme has given students a real sense of the opportunities within Ireland’s marine and maritime sectors. It helps them build networks and make informed decisions about future careers.”

Director of the programme Joe Silke added: “Many past bursars have gone on to rewarding careers in marine science and across the broader STEM fields. Their time at the Institute often plays a key role in shaping those paths.”

The Marine Institute Summer Bursary Programme is open to undergraduates who have completed two or more years of study in a relevant discipline. Applications for the 2026 programme will open next spring and will be announced on www.marine.ie.