2027 IISG Graduate Scholars competition
2027 IISG Graduate Scholars competition supports graduate students’ research-related outreach, education, and communication to help southern Lake Michigan communities secure a healthy environment and economy.
Funder: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Due Dates: December 1, 2026, 11:59 p.m. Eastern (Full proposals)
Funding Amounts: Up to $12,000 per scholar for one year; no matching funds required
Summary: Supports graduate students’ research-related extension, education, and communication activities benefiting southern Lake Michigan and surrounding communities.
Key Information: Applicants must attend an Illinois or Indiana higher-learning institution during the 2027–2028 academic year and identify a departmental administrative lead.
Description
Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant (IISG) administers this competition to help graduate students expand the scholarly and societal impact of their research while developing extension, education, or communication capacities. The program combines project funding with professional networking and development, introducing scholars to the people, organizations, and communities affected by important Lake Michigan issues.
Proposed work should advance IISG’s focus on empowering southern Lake Michigan communities to secure a healthy environment and economy. Activities outside the immediate Lake Michigan vicinity can qualify when their potential impacts clearly connect to the region or surrounding communities. Applicants may adapt research methods or results from other locations. The program aims to build a community of researchers and outreach professionals focused on regional needs.
