Fellows Will Leverage Digital and Immersive Media and Strategic Communications to Bridge Scientific Discovery, Global Awareness, and Ocean Stewardship
New York, March 24, 2026 — The ocean covers more than 70% of the Earth’s surface, sustains critical ecosystems, and represents one of the world’s most promising frontiers for renewable energy. Yet outside the scientific community, its importance and potential remain widely unfamiliar. To help change that, OceanX is partnering with the Institute of International Education (IIE) to launch the Ocean Futures Fellowship, a new initiative designed to expand ocean literacy and empower the next generation of ocean innovators.
Designed to support professional development at the intersection of science and emerging media, the program connects Fellows with collaborative, real-world educational projects and monthly mentorship and leadership development workshops. Fellows will work with OceanX researchers and ocean experts across a range of regions and disciplines, joining a growing network of early-career ocean science researchers and reporters, and will culminate in a relevant and timely capstone project.
Applications Open Through May 3, 2026
Applications are open now through May 3rd, 11:59 PM U.S. Eastern Time. OceanX and IIE are seeking early-career professionals equipped and excited to translate ocean science into story-driven solutions. Bachelor’s degree holders in marine biology, climate or environmental sciences, journalism or media studies, AI and machine learning, nonprofit management, finance, and other related fields are eligible to apply. The next cohort will be placed in various focus areas, including:
- AI – Design and apply multimodal AI systems in collaboration with OceanX teams to accelerate ocean science insights and deliver impactful exploration and conservation stories.
- Digital Correspondent – Communicate ocean science and conservation through journalism, storytelling, and digital platforms.
- Digital Asset Archives – Support media, science, and production teams to organize, maintain, and enhance access to OceanX’s growing media archive.
- Immersive Media – Use technology, such as virtual reality, augmented reality, game design, and UX/UI, to engage audiences with ocean exploration and education.
- Partnerships – Support the establishment and continuation of relationships that support ocean health.
- Marketing and Communications – Assist with planning and executing strategic, cross‑channel campaigns while gaining experience in content creation, digital communications, and collaborative project work.
Prospective applicants should review the full eligibility requirements and other information on the Ocean Futures Fellowship website. The program is full-time, remote, and lasts six months (June – December 2026). Fellows receive a monthly stipend and have the possibility to travel to board the OceanXplorer vessel to observe and document cutting-edge research firsthand.
“This fellowship represents a powerful investment in emerging talent at the intersection of science and communication,” said Jason Czyz, President and CEO of IIE. “We are honored to partner with OceanX to implement the Ocean Futures Fellowship. Together, we are opening meaningful career pathways for early‑career leaders and equipping them to unlock the potential of the ocean.”
“Expanding ocean literacy is essential to unlocking the ocean’s sustainable potential,” said Mark Dalio, Founder and Co-CEO of OceanX. “Through this fellowship, and the partnership with IIE, we’re equipping students and early-career professionals with the tools to turn discovery into understanding, and understanding into action. By connecting science, storytelling, and technology, we can inspire youths from all backgrounds to help protect the ocean and build a future where humanity and the ocean thrive together.”
Leveraging its Southeast Asia regional office in Bangkok, Thailand, IIE serves as the program’s co-designer and implementing entity. IIE’s expert services include outreach and recruitment, program operations, merit-based selection, and award administration. The Ocean Futures Fellowship expands IIE’s portfolio of STEM-focused educational, leadership, and training programs for the future.
Follow along as the first cohort progresses through their fellowships. To learn more about the Ocean Futures Fellowship, visit www.iie.org/programs/oceanfuturesfellowship/.
About the Institute of International Education (IIE)
The Institute of International Education (IIE) is the leader in designing and implementing international education strategies and program services. We work with governments, policymakers, educators, and employers across the globe to prepare students and professionals for the global workforce and equip them to solve the increasingly complex challenges facing our interconnected world. With support from donors, we also create initiatives that assist students, scholars, and artists whose lives and work are threatened; expand teaching and learning across cultures; and provide life-changing opportunities. A not-for-profit organization founded in 1919, IIE has a network of offices and affiliates worldwide and over 1,600 higher education partners. Visit iie.org.
About OceanX
OceanX is a nonprofit working to unlock the ocean’s sustainable potential. Through a dual focus on science and education, we’re building a new paradigm where humanity and the ocean mutually thrive. Our approach is fueled by exploration, leveraging advanced research, multimedia educational programs, cross-sector partnerships, and advanced technology to help transform how people understand and value the ocean. Our work strives to fortify biodiversity and increase the sustainable use of ocean resources to help ensure the ocean remains a foundation for human wellbeing and potential. OceanX is a nonprofit operating program of Dalio Philanthropies. For more information, visit www.oceanx.org and follow OceanX on Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Karuna Tuli
karuna.tuli@oceanx.org
(65) 84186101