It’s time to apply for the 2026 IISG Graduate Scholars Program

Posted January 6th, 2026 in Featured, Funded Research, Funding, Sea Grant Scholars
A blue background with the wording IISG Funding Opportunity in white.

Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant (IISG) is pleased to announce that applications are now open for our 2026 Graduate Scholars Program.

The scholars program is designed to build a community of researchers and outreach professionals focused on solving critical Lake Michigan issues. Beyond financial support, the program introduces scholars to the people and organizations most affected by these issues, helping students amplify the real-world impact of their research.

IISG expects to support 6−10 graduate student scholars in 2026. Applicants may request up to $10,000 to support research expenses, stipends and travel. Applications are due by April 9, 2026.

Take note: Like many federally funded programs, IISG is currently experiencing unpredictable delays in funding. While we look forward to selecting a strong cohort, there may be a delay between selection and funding availability. Consequently, we strongly recommend that applicants have at least three semesters remaining in their program to ensure sufficient time to participate once funds are released.

Read the full request for applications for more information.  

IISG Instagram

Find us at Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo, March 27–29! We’re linking Subnautica with Great Lakes science through fun, hands‑on activities about food webs, invasive species, and aquaponics.

Come geek out with us!

🔗 in bio for event info

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Open post by ilinseagrant with ID 18072583901167383
Find us at Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo, March 27–29! We’re linking Subnautica with Great Lakes science through fun, hands‑on activities about food webs, invasive species, and aquaponics.Come geek out with us! 🔗 in bio for event info

Coastal protection is not limited to concrete, rocks, and steel. Coastal protection solutions exist on a spectrum, ranging from softer “green” solutions to harder “gray” structures.

Nature-based coastal solutions fall between green and gray techniques, providing multiple benefits to people and habitats.

Our three-part video series, Nature-Based Coastal Solutions in the Great Lakes, is now available to watch. Learn how nature-based coastal solutions, including nature-driven and hybrid approaches, can protect shorelines while supporting ecosystems and communities.

Watch the 3-part video series at the link in bio.

(Photo credit: Liz Spitzer, Illinois State Geological Survey, Coastal Research Group)

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Open post by ilinseagrant with ID 17873389053437520
Coastal protection is not limited to concrete, rocks, and steel. Coastal protection solutions exist on a spectrum, ranging from softer “green” solutions to harder “gray” structures.Nature-based coastal solutions fall between green and gray techniques, providing multiple benefits to people and habitats.Our three-part video series, Nature-Based Coastal Solutions in the Great Lakes, is now available to watch. Learn how nature-based coastal solutions, including nature-driven and hybrid approaches, can protect shorelines while supporting ecosystems and communities.Watch the 3-part video series at the link in bio.(Photo credit: Liz Spitzer, Illinois State Geological Survey, Coastal Research Group)

Managers and researchers can be faced with a need to classify the risk of new crayfish invaders. Rapid assessment tools, such as the Science-based Tools for Assessing Invasion Risk (STAIR), can assist in this process by providing a streamlined framework for analysis and decision-making.

Join us for an ICC webinar with John Bieber from Loyola University Chicago to learn how rapid assessment tools are used to classify invasive species risk and how STAIR can support invasive crayfish management.

Learn more at the link in bio.

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Open post by ilinseagrant with ID 17849711064650127
Managers and researchers can be faced with a need to classify the risk of new crayfish invaders. Rapid assessment tools, such as the Science-based Tools for Assessing Invasion Risk (STAIR), can assist in this process by providing a streamlined framework for analysis and decision-making.Join us for an ICC webinar with John Bieber from Loyola University Chicago to learn how rapid assessment tools are used to classify invasive species risk and how STAIR can support invasive crayfish management.Learn more at the link in bio.