Environmental Studies - Programming
Summer 2026 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 and Croatian students.
- Research regenerative biology of the giant bristle worm (Eunice roussaei), an elusive organism with remarkable self-repairing properties.
- Help sequence the worm’s genome while studying marine species crucial for biodiversity and ecological balance.
Dive and explore Hvar’s underwater ecosystems.
- Build science communication skills through podcasting 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.
Check out our general schedule on the FAQ page!
Program Details
Dates:
Session 1: June 29 – July 16, 2026
Session 2: July 20 – August 6, 2026
Location:
Obala hrvatskih branitelja 1
Island of Hvar, 21460, Croatia
Application Deadline: Spots are limited! Only 16 students will be selected and applications will close by April 18th or when the program is full.
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).
Selection is based on: academic performance, recommendation letters, essay content, and an interview with Boz Research Institute staff.
For questions: email keith@bozinstitute.org
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.
Check Our Past Programs and Relevant Events
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.
