Artificial Reef Hydrodynamics Intern

**Job Description:** Ocean Rescue Alliance International (ORAI) (https://www.oceanrescuealliance.org/) seeks a scientist with, or in pursuit of, a master’s or PhD in coastal engineering, oceanography, or a related field for a one-year internship (with the option to extend) to analyze the hydrodynamic effects of a new artificial reef deployed off Hollywood, FL in May 2025, to plan future deployments throughout the Caribbean, and to publish literature related to the topic. The selected individual will play a key role in evaluating how the reef interacts with wave energy, including modeling wave dissipation and flow dynamics, and will help optimize future reef designs for coastal protection. This position offers rare access to the rapidly growing field of hybrid reef structures and nature-based solutions for shoreline resilience. The intern will contribute directly to applied research and real-world implementation of coastal defense systems. A stipend is dependent on independent grant writing, for which ORAI will support. The intern may need to also help write grants or borrow equipment to collect field data (discussions to follow). We are also happy to work with students to fulfill educational or research requirements for their degree programs. The ideal candidate has experience with hydrodynamic modeling, wave and current analysis, physical oceanography, field methods, and coastal processes. Tasks will include evaluating wave dissipation effects of the artificial reef system, modeling wave transformation across reef geometries, reef design and future optimization, and contributing to design improvements for energy attenuation and erosion mitigation. There is an expectation of submitting results to a peer-reviewed scientific journal. Additional opportunities within the organization are possible based on interest and need, including ecological fieldwork, educational outreach, and proposal development. The work requires a high degree of independence and project design. Please include a cover letter *and cv/resume with application material.* **Qualifications:** * Bachelor’s degree in coastal/ocean engineering, oceanography, or a related field (alternative experience and training may be considered) * Master’s or PhD student in a related field preferred * Experience with wave modeling tools (e.g., SWAN, XBeach, FUNWAVE, Delft3D, or similar) * Knowledge of wave dynamics, coastal erosion, and reef structure interactions * Familiarity with data analysis software (e.g., MATLAB, Python, R) * Experience with field data collection of wave/current measurements preferred * Demonstrated interest in coastal resilience and nature-based infrastructure * Scientific writing and publication experience preferred but not required **Primary Responsibilities:** * Develop and implement wave and current modeling for artificial reef structures * Analyze the reef’s performance in attenuating wave energy at Hollywood Beach * Assist in design recommendations for future reef deployments * Rigorously document all findings and methodologies * Conduct literature review on artificial reefs and wave energy dissipation * Submit research findings to a peer-reviewed scientific journal (required) * Additional opportunities available depending on interest (ecological monitoring, * educational outreach, grant writing, etc.) **How to Apply and Additional Information:** Please submit your resume or CV, cover letter, and any relevant work samples (e.g., research papers, survey analysis) or email directly to the addresses below. In your cover letter, please explain your interest in coastal resilience, artificial reef systems, and your relevant modeling or hydrodynamic experience. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. A stipend is dependent on the internship’s scope, available funds, and external funding opportunities. For more information, contact info@oceanrescuealliance.org or d.weinstein@oceanrescuealliance.org. **About Ocean Rescue Alliance International (ORAI):** ORAI is a marine conservation and restoration non-profit organization (NPO) based in Florida that implements innovative techniques to restore our marine environments. ORAI's work involves the creation of artificial reefs designed to incorporate art, innovative designs, and safe materials to enhance marine habitats, protect coastlines and provide a unique diving location. Our research investigates artificial design improvements, coastal protection with wave reduction modules, coral restoration, oyster restoration, mangrove restoration, seawall enchantments, fish population dynamics \& recruitment to contribute to effective restoration. Our artistically crafted reefs enable every individual the opportunity to create an eternal reef for their loved one or company. Art-themed reefs or additions connect local community history and culture and broaden client audience while creating a lasting memory on the ocean floor that will help restore our marine ecosystems. Our education and citizen science (Coral Rangers) programs seek to empower and inspire our future generations and engage local communities. Ultimately, our goal is to spread awareness and create marine habitats that will last for generations to come. Pay: Up to $40,000\.00 per year Application Question(s): * Have you worked with coastal models before? * Have you included a cover letter with your application material? Education: * Bachelor's (Preferred) Experience: * Coastal Modeling: 1 year (Required) Work Location: Remote