***Note for 2024***
After many Covid delays, our partners at the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources have finally organised the logistics to begin island refurbishment at Koh Mun Nai! Therefore, our longer courses and internships are on hold until mid-late 2025 when activities and an updated curriculum will begin again! We hope to see you back soon!
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A core element of ATMEC is dedication to scientific endeavors. All activities ranging from education to conservation incorporate best practices following the most up-to-date peer reviewed research where possible. As part of this, the center also conducts independent research into biology and ecology related to the marine environment, particularly in the vicinity of Rayong and surrounding areas. All research priorities are vetted by and carried in collaboration with the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources. Research efforts conducted by ATMEC can broadly be divided into two categories: active testing and passive monitoring.
Research involving active testing will be carried out exclusively by two groups of people and no others: ATMEC staff (and collaborators) and people qualified under the Research Internship scheme. Research interns (RIs) will be ATMEC certified students who will assist and carry out research projects for extended durations (typically 2-3 months). Students who have not completed sufficient prior training will be required to complete the Coral Reef Ecology course prior to acceptance as RI (see Marine Ecology Courses) which will be included within their internship period. At present, a maximum of 8 RI positions are available every semester (Oct-Dec or Feb-Apr). Special consideration will be given for a maximum of 2 positions reserved for students wishing to conduct fieldwork for BSc or MSc projects with recognised institutions.
Successful applicants will spend their time between assisting staff with regular monitoring efforts and in conducting their own predetermined research projects. Research projects will comply with guidelines and priorities stated by ATMEC and the DMCR and will be carried out under the supervision of ATMEC staff. Safety of students and staff in combination with the health and sustainable use of the marine environment is the top priority for any research endeavors carried out at ATMEC, including those under the RI scheme. Interns will also be required to be SCUBA certified to PADI/SSI Advanced Open Water Diver level or above. All applicants will be expected to adhere to the strictest standards regarding public health concerns such as Covid-19. Find out more here.
To find out about available positions or ongoing projects, contact us directly.
For recent research by ATMEC staff and colleagues, check out our published research here.
If you are an affiliated academic and wish to carry out research with us outside of the typical internship format, please contact us directly.
