Duration of Internship: March – May 2026
Funded by ERAMSUS+

Qualifications
B.Sc. Biological Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum – Università di Bologna, Italy (2023 – 2026)

alessio storaci

Alessio completed a 2-month internship at MER Lab, contributing to a wide variety of marine research, conservation and citizen science projects. During his internship, he gained experience in both fieldwork and laboratory activities, participating in projects focused on invasive species, marine litter, fisheries, seagrass restoration and marine biodiversity monitoring.

He contributed to BRUV surveys for guitarfish monitoring, assisted in the testing of lionfish traps, participated in marine litter collection and sorting activities, analysed macroalgae, mollusc and photoquadrat samples using scientific software, and supported projects involving Posidonia oceanica restoration. He also collaborated on literature reviews, updated the Dive Reporter citizen science platform, contributed to outreach activities including the European Maritime Day and the SCYENCE FAIR, and assisted in the dissection of green sea turtles for microplastics research. Throughout the internship, he developed practical skills in field sampling, laboratory analysis, scientific communication and teamwork within multidisciplinary research projects.
 
“My internship at MER Lab gave me the opportunity to experience many different aspects of marine research, from laboratory work and field surveys to scientific communication and environmental outreach. Working on such a wide range of projects allowed me to develop new technical skills while gaining a broader understanding of marine conservation. I am grateful to the entire team for their support, trust and for making this experience both professionally rewarding and personally unforgettable.”