The National Geographic Society is offering Ocean Exploration Grants of up to $20,000 for early-career researchers pushing the boundaries of ocean science. Selected applicants may also receive a coveted berth aboard the Falkor(too) research vessel — a floating laboratory with state-of-the-art underwater robotics, cameras, and high-performance computing, sailing Africa’s west and south coast during the 2027–28 season.
This is one of the few funding opportunities that combines direct project financing with access to world-class research infrastructure — all free to apply.
Quick Facts
- Opportunity Type: Ocean Research Grant / Research Vessel Berth
- Host Organizations: National Geographic Society and Schmidt Ocean Institute (SOI)
- Location: Ship-based research along the western and southern coasts of Africa, aboard Schmidt Ocean Institute’s Falkor (too) research vessel during the 2027–2028 expedition season.
- Mode: Ship-based, in-person ocean research aboard the Falkor (too) research vessel
- Project Duration: Up to 1 year
- Nationality: Worldwide
- Age Requirement: At least 18 years old
- Minimum Degree Required: None
- Work Experience: Early-career researchers capable of leading ship-based ocean research independently
- Research Areas: Biogeochemistry, mid-water biodiversity, physical oceanography, mesophotic ecosystems, marine technology, and underwater seamounts
- Financial Support: Up to US$20,000 for eligible research, project-related, and travel costs
- Additional Benefit: Research berth and access to onboard scientific infrastructure aboard Falkor (too)
- Application Fee: No application fee
- Application Deadline: October 21, 2026
What Is This Opportunity?
The National Geographic Society’s Ocean Exploration Grant supports early-career scientists and explorers conducting original research on ocean systems, marine biodiversity, deep-sea ecosystems, or ocean-climate interactions. The grant covers up to $20,000 in travel and direct project expenses, enabling researchers to pursue fieldwork without institutional funding barriers.
Exceptionally, one successful applicant may be selected to join a voyage aboard the Falkor(too), a world-class research vessel navigating Africa’s west and south coast during the 2027–28 season. The ship provides onboard laboratories, underwater robotics, high-definition cameras, and high-performance computing resources.
Who Can Apply?
This grant is open to early-career researchers who are at least 18 years old at the time of application. There are no restrictions by nationality, institution type, or country of residence. Applicants may only have one active National Geographic proposal at a time, and any previously funded grants must have final reports submitted before a new application is considered.
What Do You Get?
Grant recipients receive up to $20,000 covering travel and project-related costs for their ocean research. One selected researcher may also receive a berth aboard the Falkor(too) for an expedition along Africa’s west and south coast during the 2027–28 sailing season, with full access to the vessel’s scientific equipment and support team.
What Will You Do?
Grantees will design and carry out original ocean exploration or scientific research projects. This may involve fieldwork in marine environments, data collection from ocean systems, or collaborative research with institutions. Those selected for the Falkor(too) voyage will conduct research as part of an expedition team alongside scientists and crew off Africa’s coast.
Fields / Areas
Ocean science, marine biology, deep-sea research, oceanography, marine conservation, climate and ocean interaction, biodiversity, underwater exploration, and related earth sciences.
How to Apply
- Visit the official grants page: nationalgeographic.org/explore/grants-investments
- Create or log into your National Geographic account.
- Select the Ocean Exploration grant type and read the guidelines carefully.
- Prepare your project proposal, budget, CV, and any required supporting materials.
- Submit your application before October 21, 2026.
Important Deadline
October 21, 2026. Applications close on this date and no extensions have been announced. Prepare your materials early to give your proposal the best chance.
Apply Now
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