OSEA Volunteers

Protect Sharks.

Advance Science.

Become part of our team.

Volunteers play a critical role in supporting the research and education that drive our mission of advancing marine conservation.

Please complete and submit this application to join our team as a volunteer. Applications are reviewed at the beginning of each month. Afterwards, someone from OSEA will follow up with you regarding next steps.

First name

Last name

Pronouns

Email

What volunteer opportunities interest you? (Select all that apply)

RESEARCH: Get connected with academic researchers to get hands-on field experience

ADMINISTRATION: Help log and summarize data as we grow our organization

FINANCE: Help track our finances, create and help coordinate fundraising events

MEDIA: Help create graphics, videography, photography, and/or social media content

COORDINATION: Help OSEA equitably organize our volunteer program

EVENTS: Help us plan and coordinate OSEA events throughout the year

EDUCATION OUTREACH: Help us create materials to reach and inspire youth

Other

Please tell us about any relevant experience, education, certifications, or skills you have.

What impact will volunteering with OSEA have for you?

I am 18 years of age or older

I understand that submitting this application does not guarantee placement as a volunteer with OSEA.

I realize that additonal waivers and training will be required before participating in certain volunteer opportunities with OSEA.

I consent to being contacted regarding OSEA volunteer opportuntities and program updates.

I agree to receive the OSEA newsletter to remain informed about updates and the latest news from OSEA

Volunteer of the Month

Each month, we highlight one of our incredible volunteers to celebrate the difference they make to conservation science. Scroll down to meet our latest Volunteer of the Month and find out what they have to say about being part of the OSEA volunteer team.

Celine San Luis

Research Vessel Volunteer

Why do you volunteer with OSEA?

When I volunteer with OSEA, a lot of my personal hardships seem to vanish once I arrive at the marina parking lot. As if all I can think of and focus on is the exciting field day that lies ahead and the crew that I get to work with. I volunteer with OSEA often for the field work experience, community building, and peace of mind. Dr. Holst has created and nurtured such a wonderful, safe learning environment onboard. I believe her dedication to building that atmosphere is one of the primary reasons why I experience that calm break.

What makes you proud about your volunteer journey so far?

I went from having very little knowledge of fishing and boating to building the confidence and skillset to seek maritime careers plus volunteer opportunities with other research vessels. When I first joined in 2025, I struggled a lot with learning how to tie knots. I felt a little hopeless at times. Now recently, with a different research vessel and with OSEA's RV Belle, I have been teaching other volunteers how to work with knots and lines. I have had a handful of "I used to not know how to do this or wasn't sure how to do it, but now I'm showing other volunteers how to learn" moments.

What are you hoping to do next in your career?

Looking ahead, I would love to work in Marine Operations as a Research Technician. From the experiences I have encountered this past year as a volunteer for two research vessels, I enjoyed hands-on learning with scientific equipment deployment and maintenance, deckhand tasks and familiarizing myself with the boat, and ensuring passenger/crew safety during cruises. I have a long way to go but I am interested in taking STCW Courses in the future and am open to pursuing a Master Captain's license.

How can people connect with you?

EMAIL

INSTAGRAM

OSEA Volunteers

Protect Sharks.

Advance Science.

Volunteer of the Month

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