Hawai‘i Sea Grant Opportunities
Hawai‘i Sea Grant supports a multidisciplinary, integrated program of applied research, outreach, and education addressing marine and coastal issues of public concern. Information generated by Hawai‘i Sea Grant-funded research reaches stakeholders via Hawai‘i Sea Grant extension, education, and communications activities in Hawai‘i and via the national network.
Please read about our Pacific Islands Indigenous Science Competition and our Biennial Research Competition on the Sea Grant Request for Proposals page.
CONTINUOUS
Please reply to Cindy Knapman, lknapman@hawaii.edu
Science writers specializing in coastal and ocean resource management and water resource management needed for Hawai‘i Sea Grant’s biannual magazine Ka Pili Kai, published by the University of Hawai‘i Sea Grant College Program, Honolulu, Hawai‘i. Must possess an understanding of Hawai‘i and Pacific Islands issues. It is helpful if the contractor is based in Hawai‘i or the Pacific Islands, but is not required.
Ka Pili Kai magazine communicates scientific knowledge to people of all ages who are interested in ocean and coastal management. It focuses on the topics such as water resources, coastal and climate science, sustainable coastal tourism, smart building and community design, marine education, and indigenous science, knowledge, and culture. The magazine is geared for ocean and coastal resource managers, policymakers, nongovernmental organizations such as environmental groups, and interested citizens. Please find a copy of our last issue HERE.
- The contractor will collect information on a pre-selected topic by interviewing scientists, resource managers, or cultural experts who are involved with the topic of interest.
- The contractor will be requested to write one or more of the following:
- 600-word profile on an individual
- 600-word story on a specific topic of interest that will be assigned
- 1,500-word summary of a selected book
- 2,000-2,500-word story on a specific topic of interest that will be assigned
The target audience includes policymakers, ocean and coastal resource professionals, and interested citizens. The articles should spark the reader’s interest by:
- Translating technical scientific information into layman’s terms.
- Providing context so the relevance of the information is readily apparent.
- Providing interesting quotes from the scientists and other interviewees.
- Craft a frame narrative so the article tells an interesting story and holds the reader’s
attention.
The contractor will also:
- Obtain photos and/or figures from the featured scientist(s) or cultural experts related to the findings and write captions for each. Photos and figures should be provided electronically as individual files. Photos should be .jpg or .tiff files with a minimum resolution of 300 dots per inch (dpi).
- Provide managing editor with a preliminary draft for review and work with them to resolve any issues regarding clarity and accuracy.
- Submit the final draft electronically in Microsoft Word along with photos and figures to the managing editor within 3 weeks.
The contractor must have sufficient understanding of science and ocean and coastal management to translate complex scientific information and make it interesting and accessible to a broad audience.
How to apply:
To apply, please send a PDF of the following application materials to lknapman@hawaii.edu:
- Cover letter
- Resume or CV
- 3 writing samples that demonstrate an ability to translate scientific information in a style that stimulates the interest of an educated audience.
- Potential contractors shall supply a lump sum bid for writing one or more of the articles described above.
- Contractor is paid per article following satisfactory submittal.
- The contractor does not own the copyright to any work or writing produced.
Email responses to: lknapman@hawaii.edu
Questions? Please contact Cindy Knapman, lknapman@hawaii.edu, (808) 956-7410
About the University of Hawai‘i Sea Grant College Program
Founded in 1968, the University of Hawaiʻi Sea Grant College Program (Hawai’i Sea Grant) is part of a national network of 33 programs that promote better understanding, conservation, and use of coastal resources. Hawai’i Sea Grant works in partnership with the University of Hawaiʻi’s prestigious School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to identify Hawaiʻi’s critical resource management issues and guide cutting-edge scientific research to address these challenges.
Hawai’i Sea Grant supports an innovative program of research, extension, education, and communication services directed to the improved understanding and stewardship of coastal and marine resources. Realizing the necessity of collaboration to address coastal resource issues, Hawai’i Sea Grant also provides links between academia, federal, state, and local government agencies, industries, and local community members.
2023 Peter J. Rappa Resilient and Sustainable Coasts Fellowship
CLOSED
Informational webinar: April 14, 2023, 12 pm HST (register HERE)
- Interested students can join us on zoom for an informational webinar on Friday, April 14, 2023, at 12:00 PM (HST)
- Our webinar will feature alumni of the Rappa Fellowship program who will share what Rappa Fellows do day to day, some of the amazing professional development opportunities that come with the fellowship, and what kinds of projects Rappa Fellows work on!
APPLICATIONS DUE: April 21, 2023 at 5:00 PM HST
**Please remember to submit applications to eSeaGrant
https://eseagrant.soest.hawaii.edu/
To continue the spirit and good work of long-time coastal sustainability extension agent Peter Joseph Rappa, the University of Hawai‘i Sea Grant College Program (Hawai‘i Sea Grant) created the Peter J. Rappa Fellowship (Rappa Fellowship) in memory of Mr. Rappa. Rappa Fellow(s) will be selected and involved in training and research to better understand aspects of coastal sustainability and resilience conducted within several of the Hawai‘i Sea Grant Centers of Excellence. Annually Rappa Fellows engage in projects that look into the natural, social, and built environments in Hawaiʻi and work on projects to better manage issues that affect coastal community livability, sustainability and resilience. The Rappa Fellows will further their knowledge and understanding of sustainable coastal communities through research, extension, and community-based education in topics of coastal smart growth and community planning and their integration with hazard mitigation and climate change adaptation, as well as cultural and traditional knowledge of Hawai‘i.
Potential 2023 Rappa Fellowship Projects
Engaging Sci-Art to Enhance Inclusion, Accessibility, and Sustainability in Coastal Communities
Project description: One of Hawaiʻi Sea Grant’s primary goals is connecting with communities to raise environmental awareness and provide tools that support resilience in coastal communities. The arts and humanities provide powerful and creative ways of accessing and engaging communities. While art and science have largely been isolated in contemporary Western education and scientific research, they have long been traditionally interwoven, particularly in Hawaiʻi and throughout the Pacific Islands, to enrich observing, understanding, and sharing of information. By revitalizing the partnership between science and art, Hawaiʻi Sea Grant seeks to establish programming that fosters connections that invoke the imagination and reinforce our responsibility to enrich place-based environmental literacy in our coastal communities.
The selected 2023 Rappa Fellow would help develop the sci-art programming at Hawaiʻi Sea Grant by first assessing the history of Sea Grant sci-art activities that applied creative arts to stimulate education and engagement in coastal and marine science. The Fellow would then develop a guidance and toolkit for sci-art programming to effectively shape Sea Grant’s future activities based in Hawaiʻi rooted in feedback provided by local artists, communities, and Hawaiʻi Sea Grant researchers, educators, and extension agents.
Desirable skills and background include
- Experience with literature reviews, database management, interview, and analyses
- Appreciation for the arts in various forms and familiarity with art communities in Hawaiʻi
- Science communication and data visualization skills (i.e., developing charts, diagrams, and infographics for nonacademic audiences)
- Familiarity with Hawaiian coastal and marine ecosystems and local conservation and stewardship networks
- Demonstrated experience centering diversity, equity, inclusion, justice, and accessibility (DEIJA) issues
- Comfort with Zoom or other online communication
Outcomes
- Curation, event planning, and coordination experience
- Community engagement
- Creation of a guidance for Sea Grant sci-art activities
- Strong understanding of Hawaiʻi Sea Grant and connectivity throughout the Sea Grant network
Green Infrastructure Planning in the Ala Wai Watershed
Project Description: The Ala Wai watershed of Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi includes the communities of Pālolo, Mānoa, Kaimukī, Kapahulu, McCully-Mōʻiliʻili, and Waikīkī. These communities are connected by the flow of water from mauka (mountains) to makai (sea) via three prominent waterways: Makiki Stream, Mānoa Stream, and Pālolo Stream. All parts of the watershed, from mauka conservation lands to bustling neighborhoods, contribute to the downstream degradation of water through non-point source sedimentation and pollution. The watershed not only struggles with maintaining its water quality, but also experiences frequent flash flooding events and is vulnerable to sea-level rise and other coastal hazards.
This Rappa Fellow will work to understand, synthesize, and document community priorities related to these hazards as well as explore mitigation options–specifically, green infrastructure types, potential sites, and partner feasibility. This information will be used to create an effective outreach and communications strategy to inform the implementation of resilience demonstration projects in the watershed.
Desired Skills and background include
- Experience with literature reviews
- Strong writing and presentation skills
- Knowledge of various forms of green stormwater infrastructure and nature-based solutions relevant to Hawaiʻi’s unique conditions
- High level of comfort with public outreach and public speaking
- Data visualization (i.e., developing charts, diagrams, and infographics for nonacademic audiences)
- Familiarity with Hawaiian coastal and marine ecosystems and local conservation/stewardship networks
- Comfort with Zoom or other online communication.
Outcomes
- Literature review of Ala Wai watershed community priorities
- Documented green infrastructure demonstration options (types, potential sites, and partner feasibility)
- Outreach and communication strategy
- Assistance with development of request for proposals of green infrastructure ‘mini grants’
Governance Structures and the Indigenous Aquaculture HUB
The Indigenous Aquaculture Collaborative Network is a collaborative network of Pacific-region Sea Grant offices; Northwest Tribes and First Nations, Native Hawaiian, and Indigenous communities; and organizations and universities working as a community of practice to advance Indigenous aquaculture. Established in 2019, this network seeks to integrate community engagement, restoration, applied research, and education to share experiences, knowledge, and strategies that enhance local and cultural seafood production in the broader Pacific region. This fellowship position will conduct research and provide recommendations to inform organizational structure and governance practices of the Indigenous Aquaculture Collaborative Network moving forward.
Fellowship tasks will include but are not limited to:
- Conduct research (including literature review and expert interviews) on historic and contemporary forms of governance structures and organizing principles used by inter- and intra-Tribal networks and other Indigenous led organizations.
- Work with members and leadership of the Indigenous Aquaculture Collaborative Network to assess needs and priorities in developing a network-wide governance structure.
- Develop a set of potential organizational principles and governance methods for consideration by the Indigenous Aquaculture Collaborative based on needs assessment and research.
Desirable skills and background include
- Experience with literature reviews
- Strong writing and communication skills.
- Knowledge of methodologies include conducting and analyzing interviews, surveys, or focus groups.
- Familiarity with Native Hawaiian and/or other Pacific Region Indigenous stewardship and governance practices.
- Comfort with Zoom or other online communication.
In addition to engaging fully in one of the listed potential projects above, the Rappa Fellow will also gain an understanding of the multifaceted operations of Hawai‘i Sea Grant through shadowing extension faculty and participating in activities as scheduling permits.
Requirements (Who is eligible?)
All full-time undergraduate or graduate students currently enrolled in an accredited university or community college are eligible to apply for the Rappa Fellowship
Locations:
The 2023 Rappa Fellowship will take place at the following location.
- Hawai‘i Sea Grant office on the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa campus in Honolulu, Hawaiʻi
Supervisor:
Maya Walton
Assistant Director for Research and Fellowships
University of Hawai‘i Sea Grant College Program
Length of Fellowship
- 8-weeks full time (40 hour/week) summer fellowship
- The fellowship will begin on Thursday June 22, 2023 and end on Wednesday, August 16, 2023
Stipend:
- $6,200
Application components
- Cover Letter (2 pages maximum)
- The cover letter should describe your goals with an emphasis on what you as the applicant expect to gain from and contribute to the Rappa Fellowship program.
- The cover letter should also describe your specific interest or preference in the potential projects listed above and how your background and experience supports this project.
- Resume (2 pages maximum)
- Unofficial transcripts
- The names, emails, and phone numbers of two references that the selection committee can contact.
- Please note that we will only be contacting references for applications that move forward to the interview phase.
Application Submission:
Please submit via eSeaGrant by April 21, 2023 at 5:00 PM HST
https://eseagrant.soest.hawaii.edu/
Contact for Questions:
Maya Walton
Assistant Director for Research and Fellowships
University of Hawai‘i Sea Grant College Program
waltonm@hawaii.edu
(808) 956-6992
Selection of finalists
Finalists will be selected by a review panel and will be contacted for interviews in May. Final decisions will be made by late May and all applicants will be notified of a decision by this time.
2023 E. Gordon Grau Coastal and Marine Resource Management and Policy Fellowship Program
(2023 Grau Fellowship)
CLOSED
APPLICATIONS DUE: 5:00 pm HST on Friday, May 12, 2023
Informational webinar on zoom: Tuesday, April 18, 2023 at 12:00 PM (register in advance HERE)
About the Fellowship
In recognition of Professor Emeritus E. Gordon Grau’s service of more than 14 years to the Sea Grant College Program at the University of Hawaiʻi (Hawaiʻi Sea Grant) and the national network of 34 Sea Grant College Programs nationwide, we have established the E. Gordon Grau Coastal and Marine Resource Management and Policy Fellowship Program (Grau Fellowship). Sponsored by Hawaiʻi Sea Grant, the Grau Fellowship provides a unique educational and work opportunity for post-graduate students who are interested in coastal and marine resource management and policy decisions affecting those resources in Hawaiʻi and the Pacific region. Modeled after the highly successful John A. Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship Program, the Grau Fellowship provides fellows an opportunity to acquire on-the-job experience in the planning, implementation, and management of marine, coastal, and/or watershed resource policies and programs. The program matches highly motivated and qualified recent graduates of graduate programs with hosts in state, federal, or municipal agencies and nonprofits in Hawaiʻi for a 2-year paid fellowship.
Eligibility
Graduate students at institutions of higher education in Hawaiʻi who complete their graduate degrees (Masters, Ph.D., or J.D) between May 1, 2022 and August 31, 2023 in fields related to conservation, management, public policy, planning, or law of marine and/or coastal resources are eligible and encouraged to apply. Additionally, applicants who graduated from a high school in Hawaiʻi and complete their graduate degrees between May 1, 2022 and August 31, 2023 in related disciplines as described above from accredited institutions of higher education outside of Hawaiʻi are encouraged to apply (e.g., students who graduated high school in Hawaiʻi and completed graduate degrees in California). Fellows must complete all degree requirements before starting the fellowship on September 1, 2023.
This fellowship is open to both U.S. and non-U.S. citizens. If you are a prospective applicant who is a non-U.S. citizen please contact Maya Walton, Hawaiʻi Sea Grant’s Assistant Director for Research and Fellowships (waltonm@hawaii.edu) to discuss.
Hawaiʻi Sea Grant is committed to supporting a diverse workforce in Hawaiʻi. Sea Grant embraces individuals of all ages, races, ethnicities, national origins, gender identities, sexual orientations, disabilities, cultures, religions, citizenship types, marital statuses, job classifications, veteran statuses, income, and socioeconomic statuses. Hawaiʻi Sea Grant is committed to building inclusive research, extension, communication, and education programs that serve people with unique backgrounds, circumstances, needs, perspectives, and ways of thinking.
Stipend and Expenses
Each fellow will receive a $62,000/year stipend for the 2-year fellowship ($5,167/month). Fellows will be responsible for obtaining health insurance and for the tracking and allocation of state and federal taxes as appropriate. Possible travel associated with the fellowship may be covered by the host agency at the agency’s discretion.
Length of Assignment
The length of assignment is 2 years (24 months; non-renewable). The fellowship will begin September 1, 2023 and end August 31, 2025.
Application Process
A complete application will include:
1. Personal and academic curriculum vitae (two pages maximum, 12-point font)
- Describes applicant’s experience in either marine/coastal/watershed/climate science, natural and cultural resource management, planning, public policy, and/or law.
- Describes honors, awards, and other recognition received by the applicant.
- Demonstrates applicant’s interest in working with diverse communities.
- Describes applicant’s commitment to apply scientific expertise to serve society.
- Describes applicant’s prior leadership roles relevant to their career stage (e.g., student government, faculty committees, advisory committees, professional societies, community initiatives, etc.).
2. A personal education and career goal statement (1,000 words maximum, 12-point font) that answers the following questions:
- What are your abilities, relevant background, and experience that may address one of the listed host offices and projects needs?
- What do you hope to gain from and contribute to the Grau Fellowship Program?
- What is your specific preference in the potential host office(s) listed? If you have interest in more than one host office/project please indicate that.
- What are your long-term career goals and how does the Grau Fellowship support your long-term career plans?
3. Copies of all undergraduate and graduate student transcripts. Unofficial copies will be accepted at time of application deadline, but official transcripts are required prior to finalizing awards.
4. Two letters of professional recommendation, with one, we suggest, written by the student’s advisor (however, not required to be from the advisor). If no degree advisor exists, the faculty member who is most familiar with the applicant academically may be substituted. Letters will be received at seagrant@hawaii.edu. We encourage applicants to enter the names and emails of their letter writers in eSeaGrant early in the application process.
5. Written documentation that a graduate degree has been conferred or will be conferred by August 31, 2023. For most students the copy of the transcript will show that the graduate degree has been conferred. For applicants who are graduating after Grau Fellowship applications are due in May 2023, we ask for a signed letter from the applicant’s advisor, committee member, or department chair stating the applicant’s intended graduation date and what remains to be completed in their degree program before graduation.
How to Submit Application
Applications should be submitted via eSeaGrant by 5:00 PM HST on Friday, May 12, 2023:
https://eseagrant.soest.hawaii.edu/ (Note: upon first arrival at eSeaGrant, if you do not already have an account, you will be asked to sign up and create a username and password). Applicants will be asked to submit the names and emails for their letter writers. Letters of recommendation will be submitted to seagrant@hawaii.edu directly from the letter writers. Late applications will not be considered.
Potential Host Offices for the 2023 Fellowship
In the 2023 Grau Fellowship cohort, there are four potential placements for fellows. Depending on the applications received, Hawaiʻi Sea Grant and the host office partners may not fill all four placements.
Hawaiʻi Division of Aquatic Resources (DAR)
The mission of the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) Division of Aquatic Resources (DAR) is to work with the people of Hawai‘i to manage, conserve, and restore the state’s unique aquatic resources and ecosystems for present and future generations. DAR manages the state’s aquatic resources and ecosystems through programs in ecosystem management, place-based management, and fisheries management. Major program areas include projects to manage, conserve, and restore aquatic ecosystems, combat the introduction of invasive species, address depleted fisheries, and carry out education and outreach to the public. DAR is seeking two Grau Fellows.
Kōkua Community-Based monitoring program (Hawaiʻi DAR)
DAR is currently implementing the Kōkua Community-Based monitoring program in collaboration with partners and communities.
The Grau Fellow at Hawaiʻi DAR will:
- Support DAR staff and communities in the co-development of monitoring methods and protocols, standardizing and training communities in monitoring methods, and providing support for communities in training and supplies necessary to conduct monitoring.
- Assist in drafting community-based marine monitoring plans, engaging with various communities and interested parties, integrating alternative data sources into monitoring plans, coordinating the distribution of monitoring kits, conducting community-based trainings, and/or reviewing community-based monitoring and outreach materials.
Desired skills for this fellow are:
- Background in marine management, marine biology, marine conservation, natural sciences, planning, communication
- Ability to learn and translate technical/scientific topics to non-technical audiences
- Ability connect and communicate with various audiences
- Ability to work independently or in teams with diverse user groups, cultures, personalities and perspectives
- Ability to coordinate and organize working groups and meeting logistics and planning
- Ability to think critically, speak clearly, and write effectively
Holomua Marine Initiative (Hawaiʻi DAR)
DAR is leading the Holomua Marine Initiative as part of a comprehensive strategy focused on our nearshore waters. The Holomua Marine Initiative is a call to action for communities to come together to design an island-based management strategy in partnership with the Division of Aquatic Resources (DAR) to ensure healthy reefs and abundant resources for future generations.
The Grau Fellow at Hawaiʻi DAR will:
- Support the Holomua Marine Initiative team and DAR staff with activities to develop and strengthen the essential components of effective management of nearshore waters, including development of an island management plan, statewide fisheries rules, outreach and enforcement strategies, monitoring and restoration plans.
- Assist in providing community support and capacity with management processes, interfacing with various communities and stakeholders, integrating alternative data sources into management planning, reviewing Holomua communications materials and supporting outreach efforts as needed.
Desired skills for this fellow are:
- Background in marine management, marine biology, marine conservation, natural sciences, planning, communication
- Ability to learn and translate technical/scientific topics to non-technical audiences
- Ability connect and communicate with various audiences
- Ability to work independently or in teams with diverse user groups, cultures, personalities and perspectives
- Ability to coordinate and organize working groups and meeting logistics and planning
- Ability to think critically, speak clearly, and write effectively
Honolulu Office of Climate Change, Sustainability and Resiliency (CCSR)
The City and County of Honolulu Office of Climate Change, Sustainability and Resiliency (“CCSR”) was established by a City Charter amendment in 2016 with overwhelming approval by Oʻahu voters. CCSR is tasked with seeking local information from scientists and tracking climate change science and potential impacts on city facilities, coordinating actions and policies of departments within the city to increase community preparedness, protecting economic activity, protecting the coastal areas and beaches, and developing resilient infrastructure in response to the effects from climate change. Additionally, CCSR is responsible for integrating sustainable and environmental values into city plans, programs, and policies as well as supporting administration of the city’s Climate Change Commission. CCSR is seeking two Grau Fellows.
Honolulu Climate Adaptation Strategy (Honolulu CCSR)
This fellow will help the city implement the forthcoming climate adaptation strategy, and will be responsible for researching, coordinating or managing projects and programs as described below. This Grau Fellow at CCSR would join the CCSR Coastal and Water Program team.
The Grau Fellow at Honolulu CCSR will:
- Advance city understanding of implementing managed retreat, including research around policies and market-based mechanisms such as transfer of development rights.
- Research new and innovative funding mechanisms for climate adaptation such as special districts, bulk funds, tax increment financing, etc.
- Support the CCSR adaptation team in communications and outreach about climate adaptation and Climate Ready Oʻahu.
- Support the city’s partnerships with community-based organizations around the island on adaptation and coastal resilience projects.
- Advance other timely priorities toward Climate Ready O‘ahu implementation such as researching and seeking input into the concept of a coastal conservancy.
Desired skills for this fellow are:
- Background in urban planning, public policy, coastal zone management, environmental studies, resource management, or related fields
- Knowledge and familiarity with sea-level rise or other climate impacts and strategies for adaptation
- Knowledge of and ability with geospatial tools for planning activities.
- Understanding of relevant local, state, and federal policies and programs
- Ability to think critically, speak clearly, and write effectively
- Ability to work independently or in teams with diverse user groups, cultures, personalities, and perspectives
Coasts and Hazards Mitigation (Honolulu CCSR)
This Grau Fellow at CCSR will work across the Coastal and Water Program and Hazard Mitigation and Long-Term Disaster Recovery Program teams to bring economic and policy analysis to the following aspects of implementing Climate Ready O‘ahu and coastal aspects of the Honolulu Hazard Mitigation Plan.
The Grau Fellow at Honolulu CCSR will:
- Research plans, policies, and financial matters related to implementing climate adaptation strategies within hazard mitigation plans.
- Create and manage cost-benefit metrics and tools relating to climate and coastal hazard design guidelines for infrastructure, and design projects at the municipal level.
- Provide policy support and expertise for post-disaster reconstruction ordinances.
- Develop, review, and present grant proposals, reports, and slide decks.
- Act and expand on outcomes and findings of ongoing climate and community resilience projects.
Desired skills for this fellow are:
- Background in public policy, economics, urban planning, social sciences, management, natural sciences, conservation, or related fields
- Ability to collect, process, format, and work with quantitative and qualitative data
- Ability to learn and translate technical/scientific topics to non-technical, diverse audiences
- Knowledge of and ability with geospatial tools for planning activities
- Understanding of relevant local, state, and federal policies and programs
- Ability to think critically, speak clearly, and write effectively
- Ability to work independently or in teams with diverse user groups, cultures, personalities, and perspectives
Selection
Selection of finalists (2023 Grau Fellowship Cohort) will be made based on reviews of written application materials and interviews (in person, by Zoom, or by phone). Selection criteria include: academic ability, communication skills, diversity and appropriateness of academic background, clear articulation of career goals and how the fellowship fits in the student’s anticipated career path, additional qualifying experience, and letters of support.
Timeline
May 12, 2023 (5:00 PM HST):
Applications due via eSeaGrant https://eseagrant.soest.hawaii.edu/
May 2023 (approximate):
Interviews for selection of finalists by Hawaiʻi Sea Grant. Finalists are notified of status.
September 1, 2023:
Fellowship begins (date can be negotiated between fellow and host agency).
Contact
For additional information, please contact:
Maya Walton
Assistant Director for Research and Fellowships
University of Hawai‘i Sea Grant College Program
waltonm@hawaii.edu
(808) 956-6992
Application Evaluation Criteria
1. Personal and academic curriculum vitae (40 percent).
For the Grau Fellowship Program, the personal and academic curriculum vitae is reviewed on the extent to which:
- the applicant has relevant employment, volunteer, or extracurricular activities in academic, applied, research, administration, outreach, or policy positions that would be beneficial to one of the listed host offices;
- the experience in the applicant’s area of expertise is appropriate to the career stage;
- the applicant has received honors, awards, and other recognition;
- the applicant has shown interest in working with diverse stakeholders;
- the applicant’s experience demonstrates a commitment to apply scientific expertise to serve society;
- the applicant’s experiences show prior leadership roles relevant to the career stage (e.g., student government, faculty committees, advisory committees, professional societies, community initiatives, etc.); and
- records of publications and/or presentations (academic or nonacademic) are appropriate to the career stage, field, and institutional settings.
2. Personal education and career goal statement (45 percent).
For the Grau Fellowship program, the cover letter is reviewed on the extent to which the letter:
- is specific, direct, and concise while discussing what the applicant would bring to and gain from the Grau fellowship;
- clearly articulates the applicant’s career or life goal;
- demonstrates the applicant’s diverse personal and professional background;
- provides evidence of creative thinking, analytical skill, and/or indicates the applicant’s capacity and willingness to make connections between science and broader economic, social, and political issues; and
- demonstrates the applicant’s ability to convey scientific knowledge in broader, nonscientific contexts.
3. Academic record (5 percent).
For the Grau Fellowship Program, the graduate and undergraduate transcripts are reviewed on the extent to which:
- the education and experience in the applicant’s area of expertise are appropriate to the career stage and relevant to one of the listed host offices; and
- the applicant displays strength in academic performance and competitive course grades.
4. Letters of Recommendation (10 percent).
For the Grau Fellowship Program, the letters of recommendation are reviewed on the extent to which the letters:
- demonstrate knowledge of the applicant and their abilities;
- speak to the leadership potential, confidence, maturity, and self direction of the applicant;
- provide evidence of the applicant’s willingness and flexibility to tackle issues beyond their area of expertise, and an openness and capacity to broaden their experience base; and
- provide evidence of the applicant’s ability to successfully convey scientific knowledge in broader, nontechnical contexts.
HOST OFFICE PROPOSALS for the 2023 Grau Fellowship
E. Gordon Grau Coastal and Marine Resource Management Fellowship Program (Grau Fellowship)
CLOSED
Applications due March 3, 2023 5:00PM HST to Hawaiʻi Sea Grant via email to waltonm@hawaii.edu
About the Fellowship
In recognition of Professor Emeritus E. Gordon Grau’s service of more than 14 years to the University of Hawaiʻi Sea Grant College Program (Hawaiʻi Sea Grant) and the national network of 34 Sea Grant College Programs nationwide, we have established the E. Gordon Grau Coastal and Marine Resource Management Fellowship Program (Grau Fellowship). This fellowship provides a unique degree-to-work experience for post-graduate students who have an interest in ocean and coastal resources in the state of Hawaiʻi and the management and policy decisions affecting those resources.
Sponsored by Hawaiʻi Sea Grant, the Grau Fellowship provides a unique educational and work opportunity for post-graduate students who are interested in coastal and marine resource management and policy decisions affecting those resources in Hawaiʻi. Modeled after the highly successful John A. Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship Program, the Grau Fellowship provides fellows an opportunity to acquire relevant experience in the planning, implementation, and management of marine, coastal, and/or watershed resource policies and programs in Hawaiʻi. The program matches highly motivated and qualified recent master’s, JD, and PhD recipients with hosts in state, federal, or municipal agencies and nonprofits in Hawaiʻi for a 2-year paid fellowship.
Host Office Tracks for 2023 Fellowship
For the 2023 Grau Fellowship, there are two host office tracks that organizations can submit a host office proposal to.
Host Offices with coastal and marine management focus
Hawaiʻi Sea Grant seeks to partner with host offices in state, federal, or municipal agencies and/or nonprofits in Hawaiʻi that focus broadly on coastal and marine resource management and work in partnership with coastal communities. Host offices in this track should be prepared to engage Grau Fellows in projects that increase their understanding and professional experience in management and policy that address the sustainability and resilience of coastal and marine resources. Host offices should be located in Hawaiʻi. For examples of current and former host offices for the Grau Fellowship please visit https://seagrant.soest.hawaii.edu/directory/grau-fellows.
Host Offices with ocean acidification focus
For the 2023 Grau Fellowship, Hawaiʻi Sea Grant also seeks proposals from host offices that are working to address impacts from ocean acidification. Ocean acidification is a consequence of increased global carbon dioxide emissions that can trigger a wide range of impacts on marine ecosystems. The impacts of ocean acidification have primarily been described for calcifying marine organisms, many of which support important fisheries and habitats, though additional evidence indicates cascading impacts may extend throughout food webs. Host offices should be located in Hawaiʻi.
Host Office Responsibilities
Prospective hosts will provide an educational opportunity to fellows, who will, in turn, provide substantial professional contributions to the office. Hosts are expected to supervise, mentor, and provide opportunities for the fellow to be involved in critical issues that support the fellow’s professional and educational goals. The fellow will be expected to engage with the host office and work on-site and with other staff and/or leadership, as appropriate.
Fellowship applications are submitted to Hawaiʻi Sea Grant and screened for appropriate academic background, employment history, career and education goals, community and extracurricular activities, interest in the fellowship, and personal characteristics such as initiative, adaptability, and strong communication and analytical skills.
Prospective hosts are expected to contribute $46,000 per year of the costs to support a fellow ($92,000 over two years). Hawaiʻi Sea Grant will administer the monthly stipend payments for each fellow.
Budget
Hosts are expected to contribute $46,000/year towards total costs of the fellowship award. The fellowship is cost-shared with Hawaiʻi Sea Grant. Fellows receive a stipend of $5,000/month. Once hosts are confirmed, they are expected to work with Hawaiʻi Sea Grant to put into place a memorandum of agreement or a contract for each fellowship award prior to the start of fellowships in Fall 2023. Fellows are NOT ALLOWED to start the fellowship until the funding agreement is completed.
Length of Assignment
The length of assignment is 2 years (24 months; non-renewable). The fellowship will begin September 1, 2023 and end August 31, 2025. In some cases the start date can be negotiated to an August 1, 2023 start.
Host Office Application Process
The Grau Fellowship is open for participation by municipal, state, and federal agencies in Hawaiʻi, as well as Hawaiʻi-based nonprofits that work on coastal or marine research, policy, or management.
A host office application should include the following information in two pages or less:
- Host office name and location
- Name of fellowship mentor/supervisor and contact information
- Position description (not to exceed two pages, single spaced)
- The description should include a short summary and mission statement outlining the overall work of the office.
- The description should also outline the specific projects that the fellow will work on, percentage of total work time dedicated to each project, and the desired skill sets and areas of expertise that the fellow should possess.
- If selected as a participating host, this description will be made available and submitted to prospective fellowship applicants.
How to Submit Application
Host office applications should be submitted via email to Maya Walton (waltonm@hawaii.edu) by 5:00 PM HST on March 3, 2023. Late applications will not be considered.
Please submit via email to:
Maya Walton
Assistant Director for Research and Fellowships
University of Hawai‘i Sea Grant College Program
waltonm@hawaii.edu
(808) 956-6992
Host Office Selection
Acceptance of a host office application will be based on the following criteria:
- The perceived quality of the fellowship opportunity.
- The level of educational benefit for the fellow.
- The host office’s previous experience working with interns, fellows, or other mentoring/educational programs.
- Verification of available funds to meet host office financial commitment for the Grau Fellowship. Hosts are required to provide $46,000/year (or $92,000 over the two year fellowship) towards total costs of the fellowship award.
Selection of Fellow
Final selection of the Grau Fellow will be made by Hawaiʻi Sea Grant. Official offer of the Grau Fellowship to the selected applicant will also be made by Hawaiʻi Sea Grant. Hawaiʻi Sea Grant will partner with host offices in interviews of top tier candidates preceding final selection and will discuss with the host offices rankings of candidates from the Hawaiʻi Sea Grant Grau Fellowship review committee and rankings from host offices before making a decision.
Contact
For additional information about the Grau Fellowship program, please contact:
Maya Walton
Assistant Director for Research and Fellowships
University of Hawai‘i Sea Grant College Program
waltonm@hawaii.edu
(808) 956-6992
Examples of Grau Fellow Host Offices
For examples of current and former host offices for the Grau Fellowship please visit https://seagrant.soest.hawaii.edu/directory/grau-fellows/
2024 John A. Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship
CLOSED
The call for student applications for the 2024 Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship is now open. Applications are due to Hawaiʻi Sea Grant via eProjects by Friday February 16, 2023.
We encourage students to be in contact with our office early in the application process.
Important dates and deadlines
- Monday December 5, 2022 12:00 PM: Knauss Fellowship Info Session on zoom (register in advance HERE)
- Thursday Feb. 16, 2023 5pm: applications due to Hawaiʻi Sea Grant through eProjects
- Feb. 1, 2024 start date for Knauss Fellowship in Washington DC
About the Knauss Fellowship
Are you a graduate student with an interest in ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes resources, and in the national policy decisions affecting those resources? If so, consider applying for the Dean John A. Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship, a one year paid fellowship where highly qualified graduate students are matched with hosts in the legislative and executive branches of the U.S. government. Knauss fellows receive a $68,000 stipend for the length of their fellowship (12 months).
Any student, regardless of citizenship, is eligible to submit to the 2024 fellowship (which begins February 1, 2024 and ends on January 31, 2025) if,
- The student is enrolled towards a degree in a graduate program at any point between the onset of the 2022 Fall Term (quarter, trimester, semester, etc.) and February 16, 2023
- The graduate degree will be awarded through an accredited institution of higher education in the United States or U.S. Territories, and;
- The student has an interest in ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes resources and in the national policy decisions affecting those resources.
Contact
For more information please visit http://seagrant.noaa.gov/Knauss or contact Hawaiʻi Sea Grant Assistant Director for Research and Fellowships, Maya Walton (waltonm@hawaii.edu).
2023 Population and Ecosystem Dynamics and Marine Resource Economics Fellowship
CLOSED
Applications due Jan. 25, 2023 5:00PM HST
to Hawaiʻi Sea Grant via eProjects
Applications are now being accepted for the 2023 NMFS-Sea Grant Joint Fellowship Program in Population and Ecosystem Dynamics and Marine Resource Economics. This fisheries focused fellowship places Ph.D. students in research-based fellowships that provide support for up to three years. The program is designed to fulfill workforce development needs identified by the NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) and since 1990, has provided opportunities for 159 Ph.D. students.
Applications are due to Hawaiʻi Sea Grant via eProjects by January 25, 2023. Please share this announcement, the attached notice of federal funding, and the linked student guide with your networks, and in particular any graduate students who might be interested in applying. A reminder that students are eligible to apply if they are currently enrolled as PhD students. The award amount for the fellowship is $58,333 per year.
Students who are planning on submitting an application must meet with Hawaiʻi Sea Grant prior to the January 25, 2023 deadline. We encourage students to be in contact with our office early in the application process. Please contact the Hawaiʻi Sea Grant office to arrange meetings (seagrant@hawaii.edu, 808-956-7031) Any questions on the fellowship or application process can be directed to Hawaii Sea Grant Assistant Director for Research and Fellowships, Maya Walton (waltonm@hawaii.edu, 808-956-6992). Thank you!
Important dates and deadlines
- Jan. 25, 2023 5:00PM HST: applications due to Hawaiʻi Sea Grant via eProjects
For more info
2022 Coastal Management and Digital Coast Fellowships
CLOSED
Important dates and deadlines
- Friday Jan 21, 2022: applications due to Hawaiʻi Sea Grant via eProjects
- August 2022 start date for Coastal Management and Digital Coast Fellowship
The Coastal Management and Digital Coast Fellowships provide on-the-job education and training opportunities in coastal resource management and policy for postgraduate students. This is a two-year opportunity that offers a competitive salary, medical benefits, and relocation and travel expense reimbursement to selected fellows. The program matches postgraduate students with state coastal resource agencies and nonprofit organizations to work on projects proposed by the hosts and selected by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
For further details, visit the Coastal Management and Digital Coast Fellowship websites at:
https://coast.noaa.gov/fellowship/coastalmanagement.html
https://coast.noaa.gov/fellowship/digitalcoast.html
A reminder that students are eligible to apply if they completed or plan to complete their master’s, doctoral, or professional degrees between August 1, 2020, and July 31, 2022. Any questions on the fellowship or application process can be directed to Hawaiʻi Sea Grant Assistant Director for Research and Fellowships, Maya Walton (waltonm@hawaii.edu, 808-956-6992).
Read full announcement HERE
(CLOSED)
Hawai’i Sea Grant is seeking a University of Hawai’i graduate student intern.
Student applicants must have completed a bachelors degree and be able to perform interviews and other tasks independently. Excellent writing and communications skills required, including the ability to write articles and press releases with moderate supervision. Must be able to convey complex scientific information to non-scientific audiences. Knowledge of graphic design and website development software desirable but not required. Communications or science background preferred.
Duties include interviewing researchers and extension faculty to write about their projects for various media products. Topics may include coral reefs, fisheries, sustainable development, marine mammals, coastal hazards, and community outreach. Must be willing to take high resolution photographs suitable to include in various media products. In addition, audio interviews will be conducted and synthesized for use on website, podcasts, etc.
This internship may also include other activities and duties as assigned in support of the Hawai’i Sea Grant Communications unit.
$17.35/hr
10-20 hours per week
To apply, log in to the Campus Student Employment website: https://sece.its.hawaii.edu/sece and search for position 78259-A5
Application review begins May 1, 2022. Position open until filled.
Learn more about Hawaiʻi Sea Grant.