REU site: coastal marine science research opportunities for undergraduates

The National Science Foundation Office of Integrative Activities awarded Virginia Institute of Marine Science $464,716 on September 1, 2026, to deliver a Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) site providing hands-on coastal marine science research opportunities for undergraduate students selected from across the United States.

The award funds intensive research projects spanning marine ecology, biological and chemical oceanography, biogeochemistry, and geological and physical oceanography. Students work closely with faculty and researchers to develop skills in research design and methodology, field work, data analysis, science communication, and career and leadership development. The program aims to prepare students for scientific careers and equip them to address current and future coastal science challenges.

Virginia Institute of Marine Science, an educational institution affiliated with the College of William & Mary, serves as the recipient. The place of performance is Gloucester Point, Virginia. The period of performance runs through August 31, 2029. No subawards are planned. The funding falls under NSF's Geosciences program (CFDA 47.050), which supports basic research in atmospheric, earth, and ocean sciences to strengthen the national scientific enterprise.

Abstract

This project will provide undergraduate students with hands-on research opportunities in a variety of scientific disciplines. Students from across the united states will be selected to participate in intensive research projects, working closely with faculty and researchers who offer mentorship and guidance. Students will gain valuable scientific skills, professional networks, and career exploration, strengthening the workforce of outstanding scientists and engineers. This REU site focuses on coastal ocean science and provides a unique opportunity to engage in research in marine ecology, biological and chemical oceanography, biogeochemistry, geological and physical oceanography. Through independent research projects and collaboration within a cohort of researchers, the students will develop skills in research development and design, field methodologies, data analysis, science communication, career and leadership development. These experiences will prepare students for the workforce and provide them with the tools to address current and future coastal science challenges. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.- subawards are not planned for this award.