The 2027 Sea Grant Knauss Marine Science Policy Fellowship is a prestigious, one-year paid program for graduate students interested in ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes resources. Administered through Minnesota Sea Grant, the fellowship places participants in executive and legislative offices of the federal government, where they contribute to real-world policy work while gaining practical skills, professional experience, and a national network of contacts.
About the 2027 Sea Grant Knauss Marine Science Policy Fellowship
Since 1979, over 1,700 Knauss fellows have participated, with each cohort placed in about 69 federal offices annually. Fellows bring scientific expertise and fresh perspectives to policy-making, while leaving the program with valuable hands-on experience in government decision-making. Minnesota Sea Grant supports applicants through informational webinars, guidance, and updates to help them successfully navigate the application process.
Funding Size
- Fellowship stipend: $74,700 for 12 months
- Relocation and professional development allowance: $5,000
- Fellowship period: June 1, 2027, to May 31, 2028
Who Can Apply
Applicants must:
- Be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, or dual nationals with at least one U.S. citizenship
- Be enrolled in a graduate program at any point between fall 2025 and June 3, 2026
- Be pursuing a graduate degree through an accredited U.S. institution or U.S. territory
- Demonstrate an interest in ocean, coastal, or Great Lakes resources and related national policy
Geographic Eligibility
Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or dual nationals. Fellows relocate to Washington, D.C. for the duration of the program.
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Sector or Thematic Focus
The fellowship focuses on:
- Marine, coastal, and Great Lakes science and resources
- National policy development and decision-making
- Science-based innovation in federal governance
Application Process
- Complete Minnesota Sea Grant’s Fellowship Interest Form to receive program updates
- Register and attend the informational webinar on April 16, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. CT
- Review the application and process details on Minnesota Sea Grant’s Knauss Fellowship webpage
- Submit a completed application via eSeaGrant by 5:00 p.m. CT, June 3, 2026
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Required Materials
Applicants should prepare:
- Graduate transcripts or proof of enrollment
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Personal statement or cover letter outlining interests in marine science policy
- Letters of recommendation
- Any additional documentation requested in the official application
Key Dates
- Informational webinar: April 16, 2026, 11:00 a.m. CT
- Application deadline: June 3, 2026, 5:00 p.m. CT
- Fellowship period: June 1, 2027 – May 31, 2028
Selection Notes
Fellows are selected based on academic achievement, interest in marine and Great Lakes policy, potential to contribute to federal decision-making, and alignment with the interdisciplinary goals of the fellowship program.