Internships

Explore Opportunities at The Island School and the Cape Eleuthera Institute

At The Island School and the Cape Eleuthera Institute (CEI), we believe in the power of immersive learning and hands-on experience to inspire the next generation of environmental leaders. Whether you’re a budding researcher, a sustainability steward, an enthusiastic learner, or a passionate storyteller, we offer a range of unique opportunities to dive into the world of marine science, conservation, sustainability, and education.

Our programs are designed to connect you with the natural environment, challenge your thinking, and equip you with the skills and knowledge to make a meaningful impact. From research internships that put you at the forefront of marine conservation to visiting educational programs that immerse you in the beauty and complexity of our ecosystems, and communications roles that amplify our mission to the world—we have something for everyone.

Join us in South Eleuthera, where you’ll live, learn, and work alongside a diverse community of scientists, educators, students, and professionals united by a shared commitment to sustainability and a passion for the environment. Discover what it means to be part of a community that’s making a difference, one project at a time.

Internships are available in the following areas:

  • Marine Research & Conservation
  • Sustainable Agriculture
  • Sustainable Systems
  • Science Communications
  • Multimedia Storytelling

Cape Eleuthera Institute Internships:

Dive into hands-on research, engineering, and sustainability work that contributes to cutting-edge environmental science at the Cape Eleuthera Institute (CEI). Our internships provide the chance to work alongside leading scientists, engineers, and other conservation professionals on projects focused on marine and terrestrial ecosystems, renewable energy and waste management, food security, and sustainable development. Interns at CEI are an integral part of our team, gaining real-world experience in a remote, dynamic environment.

Please note: Internships at The Island School and Cape Eleuthera Institute may vary based on active projects.

Immerse yourself in the world of marine research and conservation through our hands-on internships that focus on protecting and understanding our ocean ecosystems. Work alongside experienced scientists and conservationists on projects ranging from coral reef restoration to sustainable fisheries management and marine biodiversity monitoring. As an intern, you’ll actively participate in field research, data collection, and analysis, gaining valuable skills and insights while contributing to meaningful conservation efforts in the vibrant marine environment of South Eleuthera.

What You’ll Do:

  • Hands-on Research: Participate in fieldwork, wet lab experiments, and dry lab sample analysis. You’ll gain skills in various research techniques, including data collection, species identification, and ecological monitoring.
  • Cross-Training Opportunities: Work across different research themes—like coral reef restoration, sustainable fisheries, and coastal ecology—broadening your skill set and knowledge base.
  • Collaborate with Experts: Engage with a diverse team of scientists, educators, and conservationists, learning from their expertise and contributing your own insights.

What You’ll Gain:

  • Technical Skills: Develop practical skills in environmental data analysis, scientific writing, and research communication.
  • Professional Development: Enhance your problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership abilities in a unique, hands-on setting.
  • Networking: Connect with professionals in the field of marine science and conservation, building relationships that can support your future career.

Eligibility: Open to college students and recent graduates with a passion for environmental science, research, and sustainability.

For questions or more information about our Marine Research & Conservation internships, please contact Natascha Wosnick (nataschawosnick@islandschool.org)

Experience the future of farming through our Sustainable Agriculture Internship, where you’ll work on innovative projects that integrate organic farming practices with environmental stewardship. This internship is perfect for those passionate about sustainable food systems and the intersection of agriculture and ecology.

What You’ll Do:

Organic Farming Practices: Participate in the cultivation of fruits, vegetables, and herbs using sustainable, organic methods. Learn about soil health, composting, crop rotation, and pest management.

Agroecology Research: Assist in ongoing research projects that explore the relationships between agriculture, ecology, and community health.

Community Engagement: Work with local schools and communities to promote sustainable agriculture practices and food security initiatives.

What You’ll Gain: 

  • Practical Farming Skills: Hands-on experience in organic farming techniques, from planting and harvesting to soil management and composting.
  • Ecological Insight: A deep understanding of how sustainable agriculture contributes to ecosystem health and community resilience.
  • Leadership Opportunities: Lead educational workshops and community outreach programs, enhancing your communication and leadership skills.

For questions or more information about our Sustainable Agriculture internships, please contact Natascha Wosnick (nataschawosnick@islandschool.org)

Be part of our Sustainable Systems Internship and engage with the innovative infrastructure that supports our campus. This internship focuses on the design, operation, and maintenance of sustainable systems, including renewable energy and water conservation.

What You’ll Do:

  • Renewable Energy Projects: Work on the implementation and maintenance of solar energy systems, biodiesel production, and other renewable energy initiatives.
  • Water Conservation: Assist in projects related to rainwater harvesting and solar well water pumping. 

What You’ll Gain:

  • Technical Skills: Practical experience in the design, implementation, and management of sustainable systems, including energy and water conservation technologies.
  • Systems Thinking: A comprehensive understanding of how integrated systems can reduce environmental impact and promote sustainability.
  • Innovation and Problem-Solving: Develop your ability to innovate and problem-solve in the context of real-world sustainability challenges.

For questions or more information about our Sustainable Systems internships, please contact Brett Ziter (brettziter@islandschool.org)

Be part of our Science Communications Internship to deliver creative, professional visual and written content for website, social media, print, and other needs. This internship focuses on delivering hands-on experience in multi-media storytelling.

What You’ll Do:

  • Social Media: Plan, create, and execute a social media strategy to turn high-level scientific knowledge into engaging and easily understood content for our social media pages.
  • Website Maintenance: Assist with writing stories for our blog and keeping our website up-to-date and accurate. 
  • Photography & Videography: Support all research and programming with photo and video coverage, create short- and long-form video to share our work at CEI. 

For questions or more information about our Science Communications internships, please contact Kennedy Wall (kennedywall@islandschool.org)

Island School Internships:

Become part of The Island School team, where you’ll contribute to our mission of advancing sustainability, education, and community engagement. Our internships provide the opportunity to work on diverse projects that support The Island School’s dynamic programs, from creating compelling content to enhancing our outreach efforts. As an intern, you’ll gain valuable professional skills while helping to amplify our impact and connect with audiences locally and globally.

Join our communications team to help tell the story of The Island School, Cape Eleuthera Institute, Deep Creek Lab Schools, and the Cape Eleuthera Foundation. This role offers the chance to develop skills in digital media, storytelling, and public engagement, while amplifying our mission to a global audience.

What You’ll Do:

  • Create Engaging Content: Act as a photographer, and assist in producing videos, blog posts, social media content, and newsletters that showcase our research, education, and community initiatives.
  • Support Media Projects: Work closely with scientists, educators, and other team members to capture and share the impactful stories of our work through various digital platforms.
  • Engage with Audiences: Help manage our social media channels, respond to public inquiries, and support events and outreach efforts that connect our mission with a global audience.

What You’ll Gain:

  • Digital Media Skills: Gain hands-on experience in content creation, photography, videography, and editing, as well as insights into effective social media strategies.
  • Storytelling and Communication: Develop your ability to translate complex scientific research and educational concepts into compelling narratives that resonate with diverse audiences.
  • Professional Experience: Build a portfolio of work while connecting with professionals in environmental communication, marketing, and media.

Ideal For: Students interested in communications, marketing, journalism, environmental science, or education who are eager to use their skills to promote conservation and sustainability. Photo and/or video experience preferred. 

For questions or more information about our Marketing & Communications internships, please contact Megan Gilbert (megangilbert@islandschool.org)

Internship Calendar

SessionProgram DatesApplications Accepted From
Fall 2025August 15 – December 10Applications closed
Spring 2026January 13 – May 19September 1 – September 22
Summer 2026June 2 – August 11February 1 – February 22, 2026
Fall 2026August 18 – December 10April 1 – April 22, 2026

Accommodation Fees

Room and board are provided to interns at a discounted rate of $1,200 per month, equivalent to 50% of the standard cost. Accommodation fees are inclusive of shared dormitory style accommodation on campus, with internet access and three meals a day in our dining hall. The Island School covers visa fees, airport transfers from Rock Sound Airport (airport code ‘RSD’), training and professional development. Based on program-specific schedules, interns may have the opportunity to experience kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, community engagement, and island exploration.

Financial Assistance

Limited financial assistance is available to cover a part or all of the Accommodation Fees. This is a very competitive merit and need-based selection process, with priority given to Bahamian candidates. Please submit an essay addressing the following to be considered: how the internship will benefit you and your future career goals, why you are applying for financial aid, and how much financial aid is required for you to participate. Upload this document along with the rest of your application through our application portal (link at the bottom of this page). Decisions regarding financial aid will be delivered following an interview process.

Application Instructions

Applications for Spring 2026 Internships are now closed. Summer 2026 applications will open February 1, 2026.

APPLY NOW

This internship has been an amazing way to expand my knowledge of aquaponics and gain new skills in community-centered fisheries management. Having the freedom to explore my interest in sustainability across sectors of marine science, agriculture, and environmental policy has been an incredible experience, and I am currently building a small scale aquaponics system for the Elementary Learning Center!

Nico, 20, is from Illinois, USA, and studies marine biology at the University of Glasgow.

This experience has been an amazing way to get hands on experience with photography and videography and even blog writing. I love that we have the ability to collaborate as a team on different projects while also having freedom to lead projects on our own, such as the semester long Elementary Learning Center video I will be working on!

Audrey, 22, is from Massachusetts, USA, and studied strategic communications at Elon University.

This experience has been a wonderful opportunity to do some hands-on research—installing solar panels and measuring their impact on The Island School’s non-renewable energy usage – that is immediately impactful in a way that I can clearly see. It is also so lovely to see how integrated all aspects of the Island School community are, and how everyone collaborates together to make this small organization so magical!

Izzy, 22, is from Vancouver, Canada, and studies neuroscience, biology, and psychology at Dalhousie University.

I loved getting to use my passion for filmmaking and photography to bring more visibility and awareness to the amazing projects at The Island School. Every day I gained hands-on experience interviewing, filming, and editing projects focused on the research being conducted at the Cape Eleuthera Institute, while also learning about conch, coral, lobster, and aquaponics. This internship is so unique in that you get to see your impact every day, which has been invaluable in shaping my career path.

Piper, 23, is from California, USA, and studied international relations, film, and media studies at Stanford University.

I was drawn to The Island School’s internship program because it was so multifaceted and allowed me to put all of my communications skills to work while exposing me to cutting-edge scientific research, innovative educational models, and people from all around the world. Through this experience, I learned the true impact that good storytelling can have and built confidence as a professional.

Megan joined The Island School as an intern in 2016. Today, she is the Communications & Marketing Supervisor at The Island School, where she continues to tell stories about our work.