Ever wondered how to take your science skills beyond research papers and into real-life policy work? The Minnesota Sea Grant (MNSG) Science & Policy Fellowship offers just that. It’s a fully funded, one-year fellowship designed for graduate students to dive into the world of science-informed policymaking—right here in Minnesota.
Here’s the quick snapshot you want before the details sink in:
- Program: Minnesota Sea Grant Science & Policy Fellowship 2026-2027
- Coverage: Fully Funded — including stipend, professional development, and admin support (total $65,250)
- Nationality: U.S. and international applicants welcome
- Degree Level: Master’s or PhD (current or recent grads)
- Duration: One year (July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027)
- Host Institutions: State agencies, tribal organizations, nonprofits across Minnesota
- Host Country: United States (Minnesota)
Purpose of the Program
This isn’t just an academic exercise—it’s about bringing science into action. Minnesota’s water and environmental challenges need solutions that work for both communities and ecosystems. That’s the sweet spot this fellowship targets: placing capable grads into settings where their training can inform policies and spark real change.
MNSG wants to build a solid science-policy pipeline—folks who understand data and know how to talk so stakeholders listen. It’s a two-way street: you gain hands-on experience, and the host organization gains fresh technical power and ideas that help them move faster.
Eligibility Criteria
Alright, let’s get practical about who’s a fit:
- Must be a current grad student or recent graduate (completed after July 1, 2023)
- U.S. citizenship required, though international applicants are encouraged and welcome
- Preference for Minnesota residents or those who studied here—not mandatory, but worth noting
In short, if you’ve got a graduate degree and a passion for applying it to Minnesota’s environmental needs, you’re in good shape.
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Benefits & Funding
This program is solid. Here’s the money breakdown:
- Stipend: $55,000 per year
- Professional Development Fund: $2,500 to attend conferences, training, or certification events
- Admin & Reporting Support: $7,750 to keep things running smoothly
Total Value: $65,250 per fellow
Beyond the dollars, you get access to mentorship, professional networks, and experience working inside agencies, NGOs, or tribal groups—all while building something that serves real communities.
Fields of Work
What could you actually work on? Think broad:
- Policy analysis and development—draft guidelines, assist with legal language, help shape environmental strategy
- Research and data synthesis—break big scientific ideas into practical insights
- Community engagement—connect with tribes, local officials, nonprofits
- Project or program management—lead efforts around invasive species, water quality, or conservation
- Legislative support—prep hearing materials, write memos, help with bill writing
Honestly, it depends on the host you match with—but there’s a good chance your work will directly impact water resource decisions.
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Timeline & Key Dates
Here’s how the flow goes from “interested” to “in impact mode”:
- September 16, 2025: Webinar for prospective hosts, 11 a.m. CT
- October 8, 2025: Second host webinar, 2 p.m. CT
- November 6, 2025: Host organizations submit applications via eSeaGrant
- December 2025: Hosts selected, fellowship listings go live
- February 1, 2026: Fellowship applications due
- March–April 2026: Matching workshop in Duluth, MN
- July 1, 2026: Fellowship begins
- June 30, 2027: Fellowships wrap up
So, start planning now—February will be here before you know it.
Application Process
Great, so how do you apply?
- Watch for application postings on the MNSG portal once hosts are confirmed.
- Gather your documents—most likely a CV, a personal statement, transcripts, and possibly references. Check the exact host descriptions for specifics.
- Submit via eSeaGrant before Feb 1, 2026.
- If shortlisted, you’ll be invited to interviews and matched during the Duluth matching workshop.
- By July, you’re off to your host site.
It’s straightforward—but your story matters. Why you, why science-policy, and why Minnesota. Make that clear.
Why This Fellowship Actually Matters
Let me put it plainly: this is incredible real-world training. You step out of grad school’s echo chamber and into the messy, meaningful world of science that matters—for lakes, rivers, and communities. Plus, Minnesota Sea Grant has history—they’ve launched this with real support from public funds and federal partnerships, ensuring sustained impact.
Not to add pressure, but this could change your career trajectory. You gain purpose, purpose-driven work, and a network that’s ready to take you places.
FAQs
1. Who can apply?
Current graduate students or recent grads (since July 2023), hold a relevant degree, and can commit full-time for a year.
2. Can international students apply?
Yes—international applicants are encouraged. Citizenship isn’t a barrier.
3. What is the total funding amount?
$65,250, broken down into $55,000 stipend, $2,500 for professional development, and $7,750 for program administration.
4. What kinds of hosts are there?
State or county agencies, tribal bodies, legislative offices, nonprofits—anywhere Minnesota’s environmental policy is shaped.
5. When is the fellow deadline again?
Applications are due February 1, 2026.
Final Thoughts
If you’re itching to make your science matter, here’s your path. This fellowship isn’t just another credential—it’s a chance to make real progress on watersheds, invasive species, community resilience, and so much more. You bring the passion and the smarts; Minnesota Sea Grant gives you the stage and support to run.
Gather what you need, reach out to potential mentors, maybe even drop a quick “hello” via the fellow interest form to get on radar. And don’t wait—this is your moment to make science count.
Official Program Link: Minnesota Sea Grant Science & Policy Fellowship 2026–2027