Overview
The Washington Sea Grant Hershman Fellowship offers a unique educational opportunity for soon-to-graduate or recently finished graduate students engaged in studies pertaining to ocean and coastal policy issues. This one-year, paid marine policy fellowship matches highly motivated, qualified individuals with host agencies, nonprofits or tribes throughout Washington State. The Washington Sea Grant Hershman Fellowship offers students first-hand experiences in crafting marine and natural resource policies and allows them to share their academic expertise with their host offices.
*Coming Soon* 2025 Host Offices and Project Descriptions
Examples of 2024 host office project descriptions below:
- Makah Tribe: Furthering the Makah Tribe’s response to oil spills and other threats to coastal and marine resources
- NOAA Fisheries, West Coast Regional Office: Marine Protected Species Management
- Port of Seattle: Projects on climate change, emissions reduction, habitat restoration and stewardship, and more
- Puget Sound Institute: Science to Policy for Puget Sound Recovery Planning
- Puget Sound Partnership (project 1): Diverse opportunities to support Puget Sound recovery
- Puget Sound Partnership (project 2): Building Connections Between Transportation and Recovery Funds and Communities
- Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission: Climate Resilience planning for tribal fish hatchery programs
- The Nature Conservancy: Building capacity and climate resilience in fishing and aquaculture communities
- WA Department of Natural Resources: Watershed and aquatic resilience planning
How To Apply
See the “For Prospective Fellows” tab on their website for application instructions and to access the eSeaGrant application portal
Award
In 2024 each fellow will receive an award of $68,500, including an untaxed stipend of $65,000 (to cover living costs, health related benefits, and tax related expenses) and a $3,500 professional development budget administered by Washington Sea Grant.
Values Statement
WSG is dedicated to expanding opportunities and increasing access to marine science and policy careers for individuals from all backgrounds. By fostering collaboration, building relationships, and sharing knowledge, WSG works to ensure that Washington’s coastal communities, industries, and ecosystems benefit from a wide range of perspectives and expertise. Guided by a culture of respect, trust, and accountability, WSG supports an inclusive and dynamic learning environment that values long-term engagement and meaningful participation.
Washington Sea Grant Fellowships are open to all qualified individuals and the fellowships program is committed to broadening participation in marine science and policy careers.
