Washington Sea Grant Hershman Fellowship
The Washington Sea Grant Hershman Fellowship provides a year-long, hands-on marine policy experience for graduate students and recent graduates in Washington, focusing on real-world coastal and ocean policy projects.
Funder: Washington Sea Grant
Due Dates (Anticipated): February 2027 (host applications) | April 2027 (fellowship applications)
Funding Amounts: $68,500–$75,000 total per fellowship (includes $65,000 stipend and $3,500 professional development budget; 12 months)
Summary: A year-long marine policy fellowship matching recent or soon-to-graduate graduate students with host organizations in Washington to gain hands-on experience in ocean and coastal policy development.
Key Information: Dates are projected; check program page for updates.
Description
The Washington Sea Grant Hershman Fellowship is a prestigious, year-long opportunity for graduate students and recent graduates from Washington universities whose studies focus on ocean and coastal policy. The fellowship places fellows with state agencies, tribes, nonprofits, and other organizations working on marine and natural resource policy issues throughout Washington State. Fellows gain hands-on, real-world experience in policy development, project management, research, and stakeholder engagement, while being mentored by experienced professionals.
Projects vary each year and may include topics such as marine sanctuary resilience, environmental justice, indigenous rights, science-to-policy translation, and restoration or conservation of coastal resources. The program emphasizes professional development, networking, and mentorship, aiming to prepare fellows for leadership roles in marine and coastal policy.
