THE APPLICATION FOR THIS PROGRAM IS NOW CLOSED.

Please check back for program updates in Spring 2025.

The Mote Marine Laboratory Research Apprenticeship Program (Mote RAP) will provide a one-year intensive, fully immersive fellowship to give participants crucial experience and certifications to enter the Marine Biology research field as skilled, strong applicants for laboratory technician scientist positions. The goal of the program is to increase the underrepresented scientists in marine biology research. This program will also create new opportunities to employ and retain diverse young scientists in the research field, and at Mote Marine Laboratory specifically.

Mote RAP would allow for young professionals with at least one past internship experience to get further professional experience working at Mote Marine Laboratory, a world-renowned marine research laboratory. Racial and socioeconomic diversity is scarce in the STEM-research fields. This stipend-supported apprenticeship program aims to make highly competitive candidates for hire at Mote (if available) and in the greater marine biology industry, to lower financial barriers to gaining the minimum required experience for entry-level marine biology employment opportunities, and to increase the odds of retaining underrepresented minority scientists in STEM. Apprentices will be provided invaluable experiential learning opportunities for one year, and will be mentored by world-renowned marine science researchers. 

Each Apprenticeship experience will include a variety of professional development and networking opportunities, extensive mentorship, and training. This includes (but is not limited to):

  • Developing proficiency in a variety of laboratory skills
  • Mentorship and training by a team of experienced research staff
  • Skill strengthening workshops
  • Opportunities for shadow experiences at other research laboratories in nearby Florida
  • Opportunity to earn Basic Open Water SCUBA Certification
  • Opportunity to attend a professional conference alongside a conference mentor
  • Pre and post-program pathway guidance
Apprenticeship Hours

Normal hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with one hour for lunch and may include weekend and holiday hours. Occasional longer daily hours or evening hours may be required to complete specific tasks.

Stipends, travel and housing information

Participants in the Mote Research Apprenticeship Program can receive:

  • Financial support via stipend for up to 1-year
  • Financial support for travel/relocation expenses to Sarasota, FL

Apprentices are responsible for finding and arranging their own housing in the surrounding areas, so bringing a car is highly recommended. Apprentices are responsible for providing or making arrangements for daily transportation to Mote.​

For more about Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, click here.

Please note: This page and its subpages describe one of our Mote Research Experiences for Undergraduates internships, which provide a stipend. To check for other (unpaid) college internships in this field, please return to the College Internship Program Overview.