Biological Research Volunteering in Portugal

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Immerse yourself in the stunning waters of the Atlantic Coastline in Portugal and contribute to the preservation of marine life. This unique volunteer program invites you to learn scuba diving, clean up the ocean floor, and protect the rich marine ecosystem of Lisbon. Besides your volunteer work, you'll have the chance to live in a sustainable hostel in a beach town, just 25 minutes away from the city center of Lisbon. This program offers a rich blend of adventure, skill development, and environmental stewardship. We welcome participants who: - Are at least 16 years old - Have a basic level of English - Have undergone a criminal background check - Have healthy respiratory and circulatory systems to ensure safe diving - Have no serious medical issues

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Each year, more than 130,000 seals, whales and dolphins are killed by the trash found in our oceans. This project aims to tackle ocean pollution off the coast of Portugal through diving. Volunteers complete daily dives in various dive sites near Lisbon, with the aim of removing debris from the reef and ocean bed. Volunteers to date have helped to remove almost 3000kg of fishing nets, as well as tyres, fridges, laptops, cell phones and of course, plastic. This project has been running since 2016, and since then a noticeable increase in biodiversity has been seen in the ocean around the dive sites. Volunteers can take part for one week to four weeks. You are provided with full training once in Portugal. We recommend a minimum stay of two weeks for people without prior dive experience. Volunteers live in an eco-guest house in Lisbon with other volunteers. Three meals per day are provided.

This all-in-one semester begins with one month traveling Spain by train, followed by two months in Barcelona where you choose your pathway. You’ll build soft skills (communication, confidence, problem-solving), hard skills (Spanish, digital tools, cooking), and leadership abilities focused on positive impact. Choose one of three pathways: - The Internship Pathway offers full-time hands-on experience, real projects, and strong hours for future credit or professional goals. - The Entrepreneurship Pathway combines a part-time internship with entrepreneurship labs, mentorship, and Spanish classes, ending in a Shark Tank–style pitch. - The Special Interest Pathway lets you blend part-time internship, volunteering, and classes, or focus fully on volunteering plus Spanish or creative electives. If you want to explore Spain, improve Spanish, travel sustainably, and gain real-world experience with impact, this semester is for you. The next session dates: September 5th to November 28th, 2026 Eligibility: - 18 years old or over - Must be in good health - High school graduate with at least a 2.8 GPA - Interest in chosen pathway

Wolves in Portugal face significant challenges due to habitat destruction and human persecution, with many unable to survive in the wild after becoming dependent on humans. That’s where dedicated conservation centers come in—providing refuge for wolves rescued from zoos, illegal trapping, or other captivity and helping them regain health and happiness in large outdoor enclosures designed to replicate their natural habitat. What to expect: • Hands-On Care: Assist with feeding and ensuring access to clean water. • Monitoring: Observe and monitor behavior to ensure their well-being. • Environmental Efforts: Participate in clearing invasive species, replanting native trees, and maintaining the forest environment. • Facility Maintenance: Help maintain the center’s infrastructure and contribute to fire prevention efforts. • Community Living: Stay in cozy wooden cabins at the center, supported by local staff for an immersive experience! Daily tasks: • Provide food and clean water. • Record wolf behaviors and health indicators. • Remove non-native plants to support habitat restoration. • Assist in maintaining the center’s facilities. • Help keep the surrounding forest healthy and safe.