Summer 2027 Croatia Science & Culture Program
Explore life beneath the sea and build connections that span the globe
Why Join?
- Conduct marine molecular ecology research with expert scientists
- Assess coastal water quality in Adriatic
- Collect and catalogue invasive species to preserve local biodiversity
- Study effects of climate change on Posidonia oceanica
- Study regeneration of the giant bristle worm (Eunice roussaei)
- Dive and explore Hvar’s underwater ecosystems.
- Build science communication skills and presenting research at the Summer Science Symposium at the end of the program.
- Experience Mediterranean culture through guided island tours; explore Hvar’s rich history and heritage with members of the Pharos Institute and members of the local community.
- Join a global science community and form lasting international connections.
Who Can Apply?
- High school and college students (no lab experience required).
- Students in good academic standing with a passion for marine science and ecology.
- Intermediate swimmers comfortable in open water.
- U.S. applicants (valid passport required).
Program Details
Schedule: July to August, 2027
Location:
Obala hrvatskih branitelja 1
Island of Hvar, 21460, Croatia
Applications
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and will be accepted until the program is full.
If there is enough interest, we may add a second session. If the first session fills, we will open a waitlist and contact waitlisted students if space becomes available or if a second session is confirmed.
Program Fee: $9,500
For more information check out our FAQ page or email: info@bozinstitute.org with questions.
Franka from Hvar prepares
Lionfish tissue for genotyping
Donovan, the protector of
endangered seagrasses
Zoe getting ready
for biodiversity surveys
Meet the Team
CREDENTIALS: Ph.D. in Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, North Carolina State University; M.S. in Environmental Health, San Diego State University
AFFILIATIONS: Boz Life Science Research and Teaching Institute
EXPERTISE: Developmental and evolutionary biology, toxicology, and genomics
CREDENTIALS: Ph.D. in Geography, University of Arizona; M.S. in Natural Resource Management, University of Connecticut
AFFILIATION: National Park Service
EXPERTISE: Facilitating cross-cutting scientific partnerships, engaging the public in scientific exploration and communicating science that supports stewardship in marine and coastal ecosystems.
ROLE: Science support and communications development
CREDENTIAL: B.S. in Molecular Biology, University of California, San Diego
AFFILIATION: Boz Life Science Research and Teaching Institute
EXPERTISE: Field sampling, microscopy, molecular biology
ROLE: Instructor and field support
CREDENTIALS: Doctor of Social Science, University of Bristol, UK; M.A. International Affairs, SIPA, Columbia University
AFFILIATIONS: Managing Director, Pharos International Institute for Science, Arts and Culture
EXPERTISE: Developing global linkages for community-based programming to encourage citizen engagement and inputs into their communities.
ROLE: Hvar-based cultural programming development and facilitation
CREDENTIAL: Master of Education in Biology and Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Mathematics, University of Split
AFFILIATIONS: Pharos International Institute for Science, Arts and Culture; Petar Hektorović Primary School; Jelsa Primary School; Hvar High School
EXPERTISE: Specialized knowledge in biology and chemistry, along with pedagogical, didactic, psychological, and methodological competencies for the successful implementation of all educational programs in biology and chemistry
ROLE: Leads instruction for the summer research program and oversees laboratory operations, ensuring students receive hands-on research training.
CREDENTIAL: Master in Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science and Mathematics, University of Zagreb
AFFILIATIONS: Pharos International Institute for Science, Arts and Culture; Agency for the Management of the Stari Grad Plain
EXPERTISE: Environmental research, responsible tourism and agriculture practices
ROLE: Supports student research activities and coordinates cultural experiences, while managing day-to-day laboratory operations to ensure a smooth research environment.
Beyond the Summer
Participants may continue their research virtually, contributing to bioinformatics and biostatistics data analysis, and potentially co-authoring a peer-reviewed scientific publication.
