The Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship places graduate students in federal offices for a year to work on ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes policy, providing hands-on science-policy experience and professional development.
Funder: University of Vermont
Due Dates: June 3, 2026: Student applications due to state Sea Grant programs (full application deadline) | July 8, 2026: Letters of intent due to the National Sea Grant Office from state Sea Grant programs | July 22, 2026: State Sea Grant programs' nominations (up to six applicants each) to the National Sea Grant Office
Funding Amounts: $74,700 salary plus $5,000 for professional development; one-year fellowship (June 2027–May 2028)
Summary: One-year, paid fellowship placing graduate students in federal policy roles to develop leadership at the intersection of marine science and government.
Key Information: U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency required; must be enrolled in a U.S. graduate program at time of application.
The Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship is a nationally competitive, one-year program that places graduate students in executive or legislative offices within the federal government in Washington, D.C. Fellows work on real-world issues impacting ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes policy, gaining hands-on experience in science-policy integration, communications, stakeholder engagement, and program analysis. The fellowship is designed to cultivate future leaders by providing immersive exposure to the policy process, professional development, and a robust professional network.