Dean John A. Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship
Forecasted
Dean John A. Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship supports graduate-trained early career professionals in federal policy work to bring science to decisions about ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes resources.
Funder: Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution
Due Dates (Anticipated): July 2027 (Student applications) | August 2027 (State letters of intent) | August 2027 (State nominations)
Funding Amounts: $74,700 salary/stipend support plus $5,000 for professional development and moving expenses; one year, non-renewable
Summary: A paid, one-year fellowship placing graduate-trained early career professionals in federal offices to work on coastal, marine, and Great Lakes policy.
Key Information: Applicants apply through a state Sea Grant program, not directly to the national competition.
Description
The Dean John A. Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship is a National Sea Grant College Program opportunity for graduate students interested in ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes resources and the national policy decisions affecting them. WHOI Sea Grant serves as a Massachusetts application contact. Fellows spend one paid, non-renewable year in executive or legislative branch offices in the Washington, D.C. area, applying their graduate training to policy and public service rather than conducting a stand-alone research project.
Placements involve policy, communications, program analysis, stakeholder engagement, and related work. Legislative fellows may research issues, prepare briefings, draft legislation, and respond to constituents. Executive fellows may prepare reports and briefing materials, coordinate projects, and support strategic planning. The program develops practical skills and a national professional network while bringing science and new perspectives into government decision-making.
