John A. Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship

Applications due June 3, 2026 for Knauss Class of 2027

About the Fellowship

The Sea Grant Knauss Fellowship 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. Over 1,500 fellows have completed this program since 1979. 

South Carolina Placements

Knauss Fellowship applicants from the S.C. Sea Grant Consortium have regularly been awarded placements, including at the NOAA National Sea Grant Office, the Oceanographer of the Navy, the NOAA Research Climate Program Office, the Office of Senator Daniel. K. Akaka (D-HI), and NOAA Legislative Affairs.

Hear from a recent South Carolina Knauss Fellow and follow the careers of two S.C. Sea Grant Consortium Knauss Fellows.

How to Apply

Review both the Student Applicant Guide to Sea Grant Fellowships and the 2027 Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship Student Guide.

Contact Susannah Sheldon, Research and Fellowships Manager, with any questions or to submit your application materials.