The Woods Hole Summer Student Fellowship offers a unique opportunity for undergraduate students to conduct research in marine science at the prestigious Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) in the USA. Fellowship recipients can attend talks, seminars, and a one-day ocean sampling cruise on the R/V Tioga. Fellows will also have opportunities to interact with MIT-WHOI Joint Program graduate students through Q&A sessions, an Ethics in Science Workshop, and a near-peer mentoring program. This program is funded by the institution’s donors and NSF Research Experience for Undergraduates (NSF-REU) grants.
Fellowships are awarded to pursue an independent research project under the guidance of a member of the Scientific or Senior Technical Staff. Similarly, the Woods Hole Summer Student Fellowship is a prestigious program that aims to provide aspiring students with a unique opportunity to engage in research in ocean sciences and engineering. The application deadline is February 5, 2025.
Institution
- Name: Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI)
- Location: Woods Hole, Massachusetts, USA
- WHOI is a top institution in oceanographic research, consistently ranked among the best globally.
- Programs: WHOI offers a range of marine science programs, including oceanography, marine biology, and environmental science.
- Duration: The fellowship lasts approximately 10-12 weeks during the summer.
Study Areas
The Woods Hole Summer Student Fellowship focuses on a wide range of marine science disciplines, including:
- Biology,
- Chemistry,
- Engineering,
- Geology,
- Geophysics,
- Mathematics,
- Meteorology,
- Physics,
- Oceanography, and
- Marine policy.
Finding an Advisor
You can find a list of WHOI researchers and their interests on the department webpages.
- Applied Ocean Physics & Engineering
- Biology
- Geology & Geophysics
- Marine Chemistry & Geochemistry
- Marine Policy Center
- Physical Oceanography
- USGS
Applicants are encouraged to visit the U.S. Geological Survey Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center website to find potential research sponsors.
Woods Hole Summer Student Fellowship Benefits:
- The Summer Student Fellowship offers a weekly stipend of $680 for the 10- to 12-week program in 2024.
- A $700 travel allowance is provided to help cover the cost of round-trip travel to Woods Hole.
- The fellowship includes housing at WHOI, typically in shared rooms with two single beds
- Mentorship: Guidance from leading scientists in oceanography and marine biology.
- Networking: Opportunities to connect with professionals in the field.
- Stipend: A competitive stipend to cover living expenses during the fellowship period.
Benefits Not Included:
- You may need to arrange health insurance separately.
Eligibilities Woods Hole Summer Student Fellowship:
- Summer Student Fellowships are awarded to undergraduate students who will have completed their junior year before the fellowship begins.
- The program is for students in the final summer of their undergraduate studies.
- Students who graduate before the fellowship starts are not eligible to apply.
- Students studying science or engineering will receive preference.
- Passion for marine research and a demonstrated interest in oceanography.
- International students can apply for the Summer Student Fellowship Program.
- The Foreign National Advisor will assist recipients in obtaining the J-1 Visa, and they must provide proof of English proficiency for the visa.
- Fellows will receive an electronic receipt via email for tax purposes at the end of the summer.
- International students will pay a 14% U.S. Federal income tax on their stipend, travel allowances, and the value of WHOI housing. This tax will be deducted directly from their stipend payments.
- Students from underrepresented groups in ocean science and engineering are encouraged to apply.
- Students in a three-year Bachelor’s program (e.g., UK) must be in their second year.
- Students in a five-year combined Bachelor’s/Master’s program must be in their third year.
- All Summer Student Fellows give a mid-summer oral progress report and submit a written report at the end of the program. They must also present their research through an oral or poster presentation
- Fellows must attend the Summer Lecture Series and the Ethics in Science Workshop.
Required Documents:
- Completed application form.
- A current CV or resume
- A current unofficial transcript, a PDF document
- Two letters of recommendation
- Research statement questions
Woods Hole Summer Student Fellowship Application Process:
- The entire application process for the fellowship in USA is online.
- Summer Student Fellowship on-line application platform
- Complete the online application form on the official website.
- Submit required documents (transcripts, recommendations, personal statement).
- Review and submit the application before the deadline.
- Wait for the notification of selection and further instructions.
Tips for a Successful Application:
- Tailor your personal statement to reflect your passion for marine science and your specific interests.
- Choose recommenders who can speak to your academic strengths and research potential.
- Demonstrate your commitment to scientific inquiry and research in your application.
- Ensure all documents are submitted before the deadline.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students
The stipend provided during the fellowship typically covers basic living expenses such as:
- Accommodation: Accommodation costs are usually covered or subsidized, but students may need to arrange their own housing in some cases.
- Food: The stipend is designed to cover grocery and meal costs.
- Transportation: Public transportation or commuting costs within the Woods Hole area.
The total stipend for the fellowship is generally between $5,000 and $7,000 for the full duration of the program (around 10-12 weeks).
Why Choose This Opportunity?
The Woods Hole Summer Student Fellowship offers a rare chance to engage in cutting-edge marine research at one of the world’s top institutions. It provides hands-on experience, mentorship from experts, and the opportunity to contribute to important scientific work in oceanography and marine biology. This fellowship is ideal for students passionate about marine science and those looking to make meaningful contributions to environmental research.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Who is eligible to apply for the fellowship?
- The fellowship is open to undergraduate students, typically those in their sophomore or junior years, with a strong interest in marine science.
- Do I need prior research experience to apply?
- No, prior research experience is not required, but a strong academic background in relevant scientific fields is beneficial.
- Can international students apply?
- Yes, the fellowship is open to international students, but applicants must be able to obtain necessary visas.
- Is accommodation provided during the fellowship?
- While the fellowship provides a stipend, accommodation is typically the responsibility of the student, though assistance may be available.
- What is the application deadline?
- The application deadline is usually in early February. It is important to check the official website for the exact date each year.
Official Link for More Details and Application:
For more details and to apply, visit the official Woods Hole Summer Student Fellowship website.