2025 Accessing the Deep: Deep Ocean Training & Mentoring Program​
Low-Cost and Accessible Deep-Sea Research and Exploration Solutions
Applications due April 18, 2025
Ocean Discovery League is now accepting applications for the second iteration of its training and mentorship program for early-career professionals worldwide. The program will focus on fundamental technical and oceanographic knowledge, emphasizing low-cost, accessible methods for exploring depths greater than 200 meters. Whether participants are new to ocean research or have experience in shallow-water environments and are looking to transition to deep-sea studies, all are encouraged to apply.
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After the training, selected participants will be mentored by deep-sea or regional experts to develop deep-sea exploration project plans. This personalized guidance will prepare you to pursue your deep-sea research goals confidently.
The deep sea covers two-thirds of our planet, yet over 99% remains unexplored. Through this program, ODL aims to increase the number of participants and the diversity of communities involved in deep-sea exploration. Let's explore together!
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Program Details
Duration: Seven-month program commencing on June 10, 2025.
Online Training: 12 weekly virtual training sessions using Zoom will be held on Tuesdays at 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM NZST (UTC+12) / Mondays at 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM EDT (UTC -4) from June 10 to August 26, 2025.
Online Mentoring: Four months of online mentoring to support selected participants in developing localized deep sea project plans and applications (September - December 2025). Details on the application process will be provided later in the training.
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Format​
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During the online training, each week, participants are expected to:
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Take part in a live online training call and discussion session conducted via Zoom. These sessions will be recorded; however, recordings will only be made available to program participants who are unable to attend live or wish to review the material. Recordings of the discussion sessions will not be made public in order to protect sensitive questions and conversations.
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Encouraged to interact with fellow participants and instructors through a dedicated WhatsApp group.
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Maintain at least 80% attendance and actively engage in the program to be eligible for the mentorship phase.
After the online training, selected participants will be partnered with a mentor and are expected to:
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Meet with their mentor at least once a month to discuss the progress of their project plan.
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Each participant will receive an honorarium of USD 500 for the duration of the mentorship period.
The online training content will be offered in English, and participants are expected to communicate in English as well.
Participants must use their own computing devices equipped with microphones, cameras, and internet access to engage in the program. They will need to connect to the workshops using their accounts. Participants selected for this training program may request a communication allowance of up to USD 50 for each month of the 12-week online program.
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Timeline
Feb 21, 2025 – Application period opens
April 18, 2025 – Application period closes, evaluation begins
May 7, 2025 - Participants notified of selection
June 10, 2025 – Online program begins
August 26, 2025 – Online program ends
September 2, 2025 - Mentorship begins for selected participants
December 20, 2025 – Mentorship ends​
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Selection Criteria
ODL is seeking applicants who demonstrate the following qualities:
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A genuine interest in deep-sea exploration and research.
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Strong personal and professional motivation to participate in the program.
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Can envision how this training could make a difference in their local community.
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Availability to participate in the online training sessions.
Candidates will be notified by email of their selection status by May 7, 2025, and selected candidates will have 7 days to confirm acceptance to participate in the program.
All candidates must agree to abide by ODL’s Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct for acceptance into the program.​​