The Ocean Futures Fellowship: Building Ocean Career Pathways

Yes, this opportunity is open to any individual meeting the eligible criteria, including alumni of the Young Explorers or Early Career Explorers programs who have participated in an OceanXplorer expedition.

Yes, all individuals who meet the eligibility criteria are welcome to apply. Fellows should be able to join scheduled sessions that fall within SGT business hours.

Note, the Marketing and Communications, Digital Assets & Archives, and Partnerships Fellows have flexibility to collaborate with team members located in SGT business hours or New York (ET) business hours for the duration of the twelve-month fellowship.

 Session times are set in advance in coordination with Fellows.

The Fellowship requires a significant time commitment. Fellows must be able to participate fully in scheduled program activities, including training, mentorship sessions, and the capstone project. Applicants should carefully consider their other commitments before applying. Applicants who are full-time students or working in full-time employment opportunities are not eligible for the fellowship.

Select Fellows may have the unique opportunity to join a journey on board the OceanXplorer or may have the opportunity to attend an OceanX Summit event.

No, once you submit your application, you will no longer be able to make updates.

Yes, you are still eligible to apply. However, if accepted, you will need to renew your passport as soon as possible.

A technology stipend is available on a case-by-case basis to support remote working for selected Fellows.

The interview panel includes your prospective supervisor, as well as team members from OceanX Education and IIE, who are based in various locations. You will be expected to be flexible with scheduling to accommodate different time zones.

To be considered for the fellowship, all applications must be received no later than Tuesday, November 17, 2026 at 11:59 PM U.S. Eastern Time. We encourage you to submit well ahead of the deadline to ensure your application is submitted successfully.

All applicants who submitted their applications will be notified by IIE via email by early January 2027.

Please email oceanfuturesfellowship@iie.org