Internship (Aquatic Biodiversity & Environmental Monitoring)

ABOUT WorldFish  

WorldFish is an international research organization working to transform aquatic food systems to reduce hunger, malnutrition, and poverty. It collaborates with international, regional, and national partners to co-develop and deliver scientific innovations, evidence for policy and knowledge to enable equitable and inclusive impact for millions who depend on fish and other aquatic foods for their livelihoods and nutrition. Our work in countries advances progress on multiple 2030 Sustainable Development Goals through science and innovation, with a vision of healthy people, healthy planet and shared prosperity.   

About the Position 

WorldFish would like to hire an intern to support the CGIAR Multifunctional Landscape Science Program in carrying out work related to the assessment of fish/aquatic biodiversity and the environmental monitoring of inland aquatic ecosystems. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to gain hands-on experience in a deeper understanding of the aquatic environment, aquatic biodiversity, assemblage patterns, population dynamics, productivity and associated ecosystem functioning across different water resource types in the project locations of the Multifunctional Landscape Science Program in India.

Key Responsibilities

As an intern, you will:

• Assist in the fish/aquatic organisms sampling, record-keeping and management of records, databases, and documentation related to population dynamics, species diversity, fish/aquatic organisms’ productivity, biomass estimation, size-frequency distribution, length–weight relationships, and gonadal development and environmental parameters.
• Assist in creating a fish/aquatic organisms biodiversity matrix with the development of aquatic habitat-specific species assemblage patterns and identification of potential indicator taxa.
• Assist in creating a suitable performance index of aquatic habitats by using data on fish/aquatic biodiversity, physico-chemical properties that contribute to the integrated land use patterns and restoration of the inland aquatic ecosystem.
• Conduct research and prepare summaries, reports, and manuscripts for peer-reviewed publications on topics related to aquatic ecosystems, environmental monitoring, fish/aquatic productivity, and fish/aquatic biodiversity relevant to WorldFish.
• Assist in drafting, reviewing, and formatting official documents, including reports, ethical clearance, presentations, correspondence, proposals, and briefing materials relevant to WorldFish.
• Support coordination and communication with internal and external stakeholders on matters related to integrated aquatic ecosystem management and restoration.
• Assist in preparing and organizing meetings, conferences and workshops regarding fish/aquatic biodiversity, integrated land management, and aquatic ecosystem restoration.
• Perform other tasks as assigned by the WorldFish officials as and when required.

• The candidate either will have obtained or is currently working towards obtaining a Masters’s Degree in Fisheries Science or a related field.
• Comfortable in fish/ aquatic organisms sampling, environmental monitoring, and other relevant field-level activities, with hands-on experience in aquatic biological assessments, habitat characterisation, and water quality testing.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English (proficiency in Hindi and other languages is an advantage).
• Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities with attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and experience with data management tools.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and professionalism.
• Strong research and analytical skills with the ability to summarize complex information clearly.
• Interest in governance, international development, and non-profit management.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multicultural environment.

Desirable Skills/Experience

• Having a good-quality peer-reviewed publication relevant to fish biodiversity assessment and environmental monitoring.

• This position is an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in international governance and executive coordination in an international organization working on research for development.
• The intern will also get the chance to interact and collaborate with global experts and leaders in fisheries and aquaculture research.
• A monthly stipend will be provided.

Location and Duration

The successful intern will be based at WorldFish India in Mandla District, Madhya Pradesh, India. The successful candidate should be available to commence the internship as soon as possible for a duration of up to 07 months. This position is open only to national applicants only. Interviews are expected to be held in May 2026, and only shortlisted candidates will be notified and expected to attend the interview.

How to Apply

Your application must include:

• A copy of your curriculum vitae,
• A cover letter which addresses the key requirements stated above; and
• Contact information of three professional referees who may be contacted if you are short-listed for the position.

To be considered, applications must be submitted by no later than 24:00 (MYT) 20 May 2026. 

The screening will start immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Due to the high volume of applicants for WorldFish positions, we appreciate all interest, but only short-listed candidates will be contacted. 

Our Gender, Diversity and Inclusion Commitment 

Over 40% of WorldFish staff is women with some 30 nationalities represented and contributing to its dynamic multicultural work environment. WorldFish is committed to promoting a work environment where diversity and inclusion are valued and we seek to have gender balance in the organization. We aim to also seek balance across other diversity dimensions. 

 People in WorldFish are treated equally irrespective of gender, ethnicity/race, national or social origin, disability, religion, political affiliation, age, family size, marital status or any other form of personal identity.

We are an equal opportunities employer and strongly encourage qualified women and men from developing nations to apply.