Sea Grant Illinois-Indiana
The scholars program enhances graduate student research
One of Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant’s long-term goals is to help build a community of researchers and outreach professionals focused on critically important Lake Michigan issues. In addition, we strive to help graduate student scholars further the impact of their research, and develop innovative, fundable proposals for future work in the region.
The IISG Scholars program was launched in 2019 for faculty from Illinois and Indiana colleges and universities to develop extension, education, or communication skills related to their research. In 2020, we added a graduate student component to the program to provide professional development training and resources to extend doctoral research. Both faculty and graduate student scholars receive funding for one year.
In 2024, eight graduate students received funding and professional development through our scholars program. Their research focused on a variety of issues and approaches, including tracking and mitigating for pollution as well as measuring its impacts, learning more about invasive species pathways, and developing filters to keep microplastics out of waterways.
Recent News
- Sea Grant Chats: Looking back on our AIS legacy as we move forward
- National Sea Grant welcomes 2026 Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship finalists
- IISG’s new year starts with a new research and reporting coordinator
- Ripple Effects curriculum engages students on the spread of aquatic invasive species
- Coastal communities can tap into IISG resources as they manage beach sand and structures
IISG Instagram
🎉 Congratulations to our IISG Knauss Fellowship finalists!
We’re proud to announce Anupama Chandroth (@iubloomington) and Laura Gray (@illinois1867) as Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant’s finalists for the 2026 Sea Grant Knauss Fellowship.
They’ll join a national cohort of 48 finalists placed in executive and legislative branch offices in Washington, D.C., contributing scientific expertise to federal decision-making on marine, coastal, and Great Lakes issues.
Full story at the link in bio.
2016 was a big year for Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant! From award-winning work to hands-on field experiences for students, community events on Lake Michigan, and strong partnerships across the region, IISG was busy advancing Great Lakes science, education, and stewardship every step of the way.
Reminisce with us on all things 2016 at the link in bio.
Ripple Effects is a collection of 8 activities for grades 6–12 that introduces students to aquatic invasive species in the Great Lakes.
Through research, reporting, and role-playing games, students will:
✅ Explore how non-native species arrived
✅ Understand why they threaten native ecosystems
✅ Investigate their impact on the Great Lakes
Aligned with Next Generation Science Standards and Great Lakes Literacy Principles, this curriculum is perfect for engaging students in real-world science and stewardship.
🔗 visit the link in bio to learn more
Graduate students: don’t miss your chance to advance your research and expand your professional network! The 2026 Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant Graduate Scholars Program is now open for applications. Whether your work focuses on coastal resiliency, Great Lakes science, water resources, or community engagement, this opportunity offers funding and professional development to support your graduate research. Learn more and apply today — opportunities like this don’t come every year!
👉 Read the full details at the link in bio.
