Minnesota Sea Grant Science & Policy Fellowship 2026–2027 (Fully Funded)

Posted by: Smart || Categories: Scholarship

The Minnesota Sea Grant Science & Policy Fellowship 2026–2027 at the University of Minnesota is a prestigious, fully funded program designed for graduate students and recent graduates interested in environmental policy, climate change solutions, and sustainable water management.

This one-year fellowship offers both U.S. and international students the rare opportunity to work directly with government agencies, nonprofits, and policy institutions in Minnesota—building practical experience at the interface of science, policy, and community impact.

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About the Minnesota Sea Grant Program

The Minnesota Sea Grant (MNSG) is part of the nationwide Sea Grant network supported by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Its mission is to bridge science and society through research, outreach, and policy initiatives that address pressing water and environmental challenges.

Minnesota—known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes”—is home to some of the most important freshwater resources in North America, making it an ideal environment for fellows to engage in water governance, sustainability, and climate resilience.

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Fellowship Overview

• Duration: 1 year (July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027)

• Location: Minnesota (placement depends on host organization)

• Funding Package: $65,250 per fellow

  • $55,000 stipend

  • $2,500 professional development support

  • $7,750 administration & reporting

• Application Deadlines:

  • Hosts: November 6, 2025

  • Fellows: February 1, 2026

• Matching Workshop: March–April 2026, Duluth, MN

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Why Apply as an International Student?

The fellowship strongly welcomes international applicants, offering:

• Immersive U.S. Policy Experience: Work directly with state and local agencies on real environmental challenges.

• Fully Funded Support: Competitive stipend and professional development funding.

• Global Career Training: Skills in policy, sustainability, and governance applicable worldwide.

• Networking: Build connections with U.S. policymakers, researchers, and NGOs.

• Transferable Expertise: Focus areas include climate resilience, invasive species management, water conservation, and sustainable development.

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Fellowship Timeline

• October 8, 2025: Informational Webinar #2 for host organizations

• November 6, 2025: Host applications close

• December 2025: Host selections announced; fellowship applications open

• February 1, 2026: Fellowship application deadline

• March–April 2026: Matching workshop in Duluth, MN

• July 1, 2026: Fellowship begins

• June 30, 2027: Fellowship concludes

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Fellow Responsibilities

Fellows will be matched with host organizations and participate in activities such as:

• Policy Development: Drafting and refining water and environmental policies.

• Research Translation: Converting scientific findings into policy recommendations.

• Community Engagement: Partnering with local communities, tribal governments, and NGOs.

• Program Management: Supporting projects on water quality, conservation, and invasive species.

• Legislative Support: Assisting with hearings, bill writing, and committee research.

This broad training equips fellows to become effective science-policy leaders.

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Possible Host Organizations

• Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (Water Ecology & Invasive Species Units)

• Saint Louis County Department of Public Works

• Legislative Committees on Environmental Policy

• Nonprofit water and climate advocacy groups

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Funding Support

Each fellow receives a $65,250 package, covering:

• $55,000 annual stipend

• $2,500 for professional development (conferences, certifications, training)

• $7,750 administrative/reporting support

Funding provided by:

• Minnesota Environment & Natural Resources Trust Fund

• The National Sea Grant College Program (NOAA)

• Cost-sharing with host organizations

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Eligibility Criteria

• Academic Level: Master’s or Ph.D. (current students or recent graduates)

• Fields of Study: Environmental science, natural resources, public policy, law, sustainability, public administration, or related disciplines

• Nationality: Open to U.S. and international applicants

• Commitment: Full-time, one-year participation required

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Application Process

For Hosts (Deadline: November 6, 2025)

• Submit host form via eSeaGrant

• Provide project description, mentorship plan, and co-funding details

• Join the selection and matching process

For Fellows (Deadline: February 1, 2026)

• Review available host positions (posted Dec. 2025)

• Apply via eSeaGrant with academic, professional, and personal details

• Participate in interviews and the matching workshop

• Start fellowship on July 1, 2026

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Why the University of Minnesota?

As one of the top U.S. research universities, the University of Minnesota offers fellows:

• Access to advanced labs and facilities

• Mentorship from leading scientists and policymakers

• Collaboration with state, tribal, and federal agencies

• A strong platform for international science-policy careers

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Long-Term Benefits

• Professional Growth: Develop advanced skills in policy, research, and leadership.

• Networking: Build global and U.S. professional connections.

• Career Advancement: Alumni often move into government, academia, NGOs, and international policy roles.

• Real-World Impact: Directly contribute to protecting freshwater resources and addressing climate challenges.

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FAQs – Minnesota Sea Grant Fellowship 2026–2027

1. Who is eligible to apply?
Graduate students and recent graduates (Master’s or Ph.D.) in environmental science, law, public policy, natural resources, and related fields.

2. Can international students apply?
Yes. The fellowship is open to international applicants.

3. What is the program duration?
One year: July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027.

4. How much is the financial package?
Each fellow receives a $55,000 stipend, $2,500 for professional development, and administrative support, totaling $65,250.

5. What types of organizations host fellows?
Government agencies, legislative committees, county departments, and nonprofit advocacy groups.

6. What is the application deadline for fellows?
February 1, 2026.

7. What kind of work do fellows do?
Policy analysis, research translation, program management, and legislative support.

8. Where does the fellowship take place?
Placements are across Minnesota, with workshops in Duluth.

9. Is the fellowship competitive?
Yes, it is highly competitive, attracting top candidates globally.

10. What career paths do alumni follow?
Government, international NGOs, academia, and environmental policy leadership roles.

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