We are always in need of support for our research programs. If you are interested in volunteering, interning, donating supplies or services, or making a financial contribution to our project, please see the following information on how to get involved.

Volunteer. Our program is powered by a group of hard working volunteer research assistants. These individuals typically work 12-15 hours per week in the laboratory and receive comprehensive training in all areas of the research program. Preference is generally given to UCSC students in the natural, behavioral, or physical sciences, or to individuals with a background in computer sciences/engineering. These positions are most suitable for local students and recent graduates with the potential of staying with the program for a minimum of one year. Available positions are typically filled at the start of each academic quarter. For more information about the volunteer program, including instructions on how to apply, please contact us here.

Intern. We offer 3-4 month internships to individuals that are recent college graduates with an interest in marine mammalogy, bioacoustics, comparative cognition, and/or animal husbandry. Interns complete an intensive training program followed by participation in all aspects of the program, including specialized roles in upcoming and ongoing research projects. Interns typically work five full days per week, mainly in the laboratory and occasionally in field research settings. Internships are not paid positions, and applicants are responsible for their own housing arrangements. Applications are accepted quarterly as outlined below. For more information about the program, including instructions on how to apply for an internship, please contact us at here.

Donate. Our program is entirely funded by "soft" support, that is, contracts, grants, and awards that we compete for on a project-by-project basis. We are in need of support for the many unfunded research activities, student projects, and animal care expenses that are not covered by other funding sources. Working with marine mammals is very costly and highly labor intensive, so private donations go a long way towards supporting the needs of the animals and the students in the project. Donations of needed supplies and services (things like construction services, or needed software or programming support) are also greatly appreciated. To find out more about how you can help our program, including instructions on how to make a tax-deductable donation, please contact us at here.