Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship
The deadline to apply for the 2025 fellowship is February 15, 2024. Contact Sean Rafferty, Ph.D., Director of Pennsylvania Sea Grant’s Research program for guidance on applying for the 2025 Knauss fellowship, or for information about other fellowship opportunities.
The John A. Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship Program provides a unique educational and professional experience to graduate students who have an interest in ocean, coastal and Great Lakes resources and in the national policy decisions affecting those resources.
The Fellowship, named after one of Sea Grant’s founders and former NOAA Administrator John A. Knauss, matches highly qualified graduate students with “hosts” in the legislative and executive branch of government located in the Washington, D.C. area, for a one year paid fellowship.
Eligibility
Any student, regardless of citizenship, who is enrolled towards a degree in a graduate or professional program, that have an interest in ocean, coastal and Great Lakes resources and in the national policy decisions affecting those resources may apply. The graduate degree needs to be awarded through a United States accredited institution of higher education in the United States or U.S. Territories.
- The student’s graduate degree program must be through an accredited institution of higher education in the United States or U.S. Territories;
- Students are eligible regardless of nationality; domestic and international students at accredited U.S. institutions may apply; and
- Applicants must have an interest in ocean, coastal and Great Lakes resources and in the national policy decisions affecting those resources.
Prospective Students
As a reference, prospective students are encouraged to review the most recent Knauss fellowship student guide, and the more inclusive guide to fellowships offered through Sea Grant.
2025 Knauss Fellowship Student Guide
Student Applicant Guide to Sea Grant Fellowships
Featured Fellow, Jessica Eason
Jessica Eason, 2023 Knauss Fellow, is working as a Congressional Affairs Knauss Fellow at the Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs, at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. We recently caught up with Jessica to find out how things are going.
Brian Redder
Brian Redder, 2021 Knauss Fellow, is now the Manager of Regulatory and Scientific Affairs for the Association of Metropolitan Water Agencies (AMWA). About the fellowship, Brian says, “I would recommend this fellowship to those even remotely interested in science and water policy. It offers an immersive experience that allows you to quickly learn about potential careers opportunities without a long-term commitment.”
Sandra Cross (née Demberger), 2021 Knauss Fellow, is a landscape biologist for the US. Fish and Wildlife Service, working for the Delaware River Basin Restoration Program.
