2025 Summer Batten Fellowship

Position Overview:

Virginia Aquarium Stranding Response Program (VAQS) Fellows promote the conservation of marine animal species through research, response, rehabilitation, necropsy and education. Fellows will be trained in all aspects of stranding response. Stranding work is unpredictable; therefore, experiences will vary by fellowship session. VAQS staff will provide as many learning opportunities as possible during each session. Batten Fellows are also expected to complete a focused research project. We work with each accepted Batten Fellow to select a project from predetermined options based on their background, experience, and interests.

Fellowships will be 400 – 800 hours (~3-6 months), depending on the candidate’s availability, with a start date around May/June. Start and end dates are flexible.This competitive position includes $15 per hour compensation to help offset personal and incidental expenses over the course of the appointment period. Housing is not provided by the Virginia Aquarium. Fellows are fully responsible for fulfilling all requirements of their home institutions to receive academic credit.

The fellow is expected to be available 4-5 days per week, 8:00am-4:30pm. Weekend and holiday coverage is expected.