It’s an exciting two-year fellowship program that will place one graduate student at each of the 29 national estuarine research reserves.

Through a research project, fellows address a key reserve management need to help scientists and communities understand coastal challenges that may influence future policy and management strategies.

The research reserves represent the apex of estuary science. At these coastal sites, fieldwork, research, and community engagement come together to create the scientific advances that change our communities and our world.

See full details at https://coast.noaa.gov/nerrs/research/davidson-fellowship.html

Specific fellowship benefits include the following:

  • The ability to develop meaningful cross-discipline research projects in conjunction with scientists, community leaders, and other organizations

  • Networking opportunities with the annual fellowship class of 29, plus the other professionals across the reserve system, NOAA, and community partners

  • Professional development and mentoring in a variety of disciplines, including facilitation and communication. Fellows will also have quarterly career-readiness training

  • The development of research partnerships between universities and reserves

Pending congressional appropriations, NOAA anticipates an annual budget of up to $45,000 in direct costs. Direct costs should support the fellows and their research and may include stipend, supplies, travel, and tuition.

Requirements

Eligible applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of U.S. states or territories admitted to or enrolled in a full-time graduate program at a U.S. accredited college or university, working to obtain a master’s or doctoral degree. Applicants must plan to be enrolled for all of the first year, and the majority of the second year, of funding.

Current 2020-2022 Cohort

Congratulations to the first cohort of Margaret A. Davidson Fellows! These students will be working collaboratively with mentors, scientists, and the local communities on their identified projects over the next two years. Sign up for email updates and stay connected with the program by emailing OCM.DavidsonFellowship@noaa.gov.

2022-2024 Cohort

We’re now accepting applications. Be part of the next generation of coastal leaders!