Applications are now open for the Ocean Futures Fellowship 2026, an international professional development programme supporting early-career professionals pursuing careers connected to oceans, marine science, aquaculture, conservation, and ocean storytelling.

Delivered by OceanX Education, the six-month remote fellowship equips participants with practical experience, mentorship, and global exposure while contributing to solutions addressing critical ocean challenges.

The programme contributes to the goals of the UN Ocean Decade and advances SDG 14 – Life Below Water by nurturing a new generation of ocean leaders capable of driving innovation, communication, and conservation impact worldwide.

Programme Overview

• Location: Remote (Global participation)
• Duration: June – December 2026
• Fellowship Type: Full-time
• Application Deadline: 3 May 2026
• Financial Support: Monthly stipend provided

Fellows collaborate virtually with international teams while building professional skills and expanding global networks within the ocean sector.

Fellowship Focus Areas

Selected participants will specialize in one of the following tracks:

• AI Fellow – Apply artificial intelligence tools to accelerate ocean science insights and storytelling.
• Digital Correspondent Fellow – Produce journalism and digital narratives on ocean conservation.
• Digital Asset Archives Fellow – Support management and accessibility of scientific and media archives.
• Immersive Media Fellow – Develop VR, AR, UX/UI, and interactive experiences for ocean education.
• Marketing & Communications Fellow – Contribute to global campaigns and digital communication strategies.
• Partnerships Fellow – Support collaboration development with global partners and institutions.

Field requirements vary by role, including backgrounds in:

• Marine science and conservation
• Communications and media
• Technology and innovation
• Policy, finance, or nonprofit management
• Business or partnerships development

Programme Timeline

• Deadline: 3 May 2026 (11:59 PM U.S. Eastern Time)
• Interviews: Mid-May 2026
• Offers Announced: Late May 2026
• Programme Begins: 22 June 2026
• Programme Ends: December 2026

This fellowship presents a strong pathway for emerging professionals—particularly those working in aquaculture, blue economy innovation, marine research, storytelling, and conservation—to gain international exposure and accelerate careers in ocean leadership.