MSDS Marine is pleased to announce the launch of our Marine Protection Internship Programme for 2026, offering two paid internship placements designed to support the next generation of maritime archaeology professionals.

The programme provides a 15-day paid internship, including a bursary of £1,200, with additional accommodation and subsistence covered during fieldwork. Based from the MSDS Marine head office in Holbrook, Derbyshire, the internships will run between March and September, with exact dates agreed with successful applicants. Placements will include a mixture of office-based project work and supported field operations.

Interns will gain first-hand experience working alongside professional maritime archaeologists on nationally important marine heritage projects. Activities will include desk-based research, site-focused heritage tasks, and visits to active field operations — including opportunities to observe and support diving projects from the surface. The internships are designed to build practical skills, sector knowledge, and professional confidence in a supportive working environment.

MSDS Marine have grown steadily since they were first established in 2011 and are now a market leader in maritime archaeology in the UK. In March 2025 we were awarded the contract for the provision of services in relation to marine designation for 2025-2027 on behalf of Historic England. We have worked with Historic England on designated and undesignated wreck sites for many years and enjoy working with them on this contract to select and provide appropriate field services for the sites that are chosen for investigation. We have a strong background in engaging with and helping communities and volunteers care for marine heritage assets and look forward to working with divers and others to ensure they feel included in projects at all stages whilst ensuring positive outcomes for the heritage sites we investigate. These internships will allow participants to become involved with all aspects of the contract, including visiting diving operations and participating in surface support.

The opportunity is open to UK-based students and recent graduates in relevant disciplines who are passionate about marine heritage and interested in developing a career in the sector. While prior knowledge of protected wreck sites and marine heritage legislation is desirable, training and support will be provided.

MSDS Marine has a strong track record of delivering marine archaeological services and working collaboratively with regulators, divers, and community groups to protect and promote marine heritage. The internship programme reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to skills development and sector capacity building.

Read the Job Description here.

How to apply:
Applicants should submit a CV and cover letter by the closing date to: info@MSDSMarine.co.uk

Application deadline: 13th March 2026

For an informal discussion about the role, applicants may contact Alison James at Alison@MSDSMarine.co.uk.

The post MSDS Marine Launches 2026 Paid Marine Protection Internship Programme first appeared on MSDS Marine and MSDS Heritage.

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