The FY2025 NMFS-Sea Grant Fellowship in Population and Ecosystem Dynamics and Marine Resource Economics, offered by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in partnership with the National Sea Grant College Program, aims to support doctoral students pursuing research in population and ecosystem dynamics or marine resource economics. This fellowship program focuses on preparing the next generation of scientists to contribute to the conservation and management of marine resources. The fellowship supports thesis research that is directly relevant to the mission of the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) and aligns with NOAA's goal of maintaining healthy and productive marine ecosystems.

The fellowship program is divided into two distinct focus areas: Population and Ecosystem Dynamics (PED) and Marine Resource Economics (MRE). For PED, Sea Grant anticipates funding at least four new Ph.D. fellowships for research focused on quantitative methods for assessing marine ecosystems, including fishery resources, marine mammals, and protected species. For MRE, at least one new Ph.D. fellowship is expected to support research on quantitative methods for assessing economic aspects of marine resource conservation and management. Fellows will work alongside NMFS mentors at participating NMFS Science Centers or Offices, ensuring their research addresses public interest issues.

Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens and either currently admitted to or provisionally accepted into a Ph.D. program at an accredited U.S. university. Their academic focus must be in fields such as population dynamics, ecosystem dynamics, resource or environmental economics, marine biology, quantitative ecology, applied mathematics, or similar disciplines. Applications must be submitted through an eligible Sea Grant program in the applicant's state or territory. If a student resides in a state or territory without a Sea Grant program, they must consult the NMFS-Sea Grant Fellowship Program Manager for guidance on where to submit their application.

The fellowship provides up to $66,700 per year in federal funding, with a required 20% matching contribution ($13,340) per year. Funding can support up to three years of doctoral research. Indirect costs are not permitted under this fellowship. Applicants must ensure their institution is registered with SAM.gov, Grants.gov, and eRA Commons, which can take 4 to 6 weeks to complete. Therefore, applicants are encouraged to begin the registration process well in advance.

Application packages must include all required forms and documents as outlined in the full funding announcement. These include a detailed project proposal, a budget justification, and letters of support. Interested applicants are encouraged to reach out to their state Sea Grant program at least one month before the application deadline to receive assistance and guidance. Proper adherence to submission requirements and documentation is critical for the application to be considered for review.

The application deadline is March 13, 2025, and applicants are advised to thoroughly review all submission instructions to avoid errors. For technical assistance, applicants may contact the National Sea Grant Office directly. This fellowship represents a significant opportunity for doctoral students to contribute to the advancement of marine science and resource management while receiving valuable mentorship and financial support.