University-of-Delaware-Scholarship
Are you passionate about marine science, ecology, or climate research and looking to pursue postgraduate studies in the USA? The University of Delaware Scholarships 2026 offer a fully funded opportunity for talented international and domestic students to pursue graduate studies at one of America’s top research institutions.
This scholarship is ideal for students interested in quantitative ecology, climate change research, and fisheries science, offering a generous funding package, hands-on research, and international exposure.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: United States
- Study Abroad: Study in the USA
- Institution: University of Delaware
- Study Level: Masters Scholarships | PhD Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: All Countries
- Reward: Full Scholarship | $36,000 Stipend/Year | Health Insurance | Conference Funding
- IELTS Requirement: No IELTS Required
- Application Deadline: June 30, 2026
The Fish Macroecology Research Group at the University of Delaware is seeking a motivated master’s student to join its team starting Fall 2026.
The group focuses on how climate change shapes the ecology of commercially important fishes, with research designed to inform real-world management and policy. Students will work with fisheries survey data, oceanographic models, and statistical modeling to understand how climate change impacts fish populations — from life history and population dynamics to geographic distribution.
Specific research projects will be developed collaboratively and will involve both University of Delaware faculty and NOAA Fisheries researchers, providing a robust and interdisciplinary research environment.

A Scholarship Benefits
Accepted graduate assistants will receive a competitive, fully funded package, which includes:
- Full Tuition Waiver
- Annual Stipend of $36,000 (approximately $3,000 monthly before tax)
- Health Insurance through the University of Delaware healthcare system
- Conference Funding for at least one academic meeting per year
This makes it one of the most generous graduate scholarships available for students interested in climate and ecological research.
Eligibility Requirements for University of Delaware Scholarship 2026
To be eligible for this scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree in marine science, ecology, fisheries science, biology, or a related discipline.
- Demonstrate a strong interest in quantitative ecology, data science, and statistics.
- Be self-motivated, organized, and able to work independently and collaboratively.
- Experience in quantitative ecology, data science, and/or statistics.
- Programming experience in R.
- Prior research experience in the natural sciences.
- Experience with scientific writing (e.g., publications, research papers).
Required Documents for Application
Candidates must prepare and submit the following documents:
- Cover Letter — outlining background, career goals, and interest in joining the Fish Mac Group and UD SMSP/CEOE.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Short Statement of Research Interests (maximum 1 page).
- Writing Sample (e.g., publication, research proposal, paper).
- Unofficial Transcripts.
- Contact Information for Two Professional References.
How to Apply for University of Delaware Scholarship 2026 (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps to apply for this fully funded opportunity:
- Visit the Official Program Page: Click the green button below to proceed to the program’s official webpage.
- Contact the Supervisor: Email Dr. Jenny Bigman (Assistant Professor, University of Delaware) at jbigman@udel.edu with the subject line: “
Fish Mac grad student <Your Last Name>". *Do this before submitting your formal graduate school application. - Visit the Fish Mac Group Website:
Explore the Fish Macroecology Research Group’s website to learn more about their research focus and available projects. - Apply for Admission:
For more information on the University of Delaware graduate application process, visit UD’s Graduate Admissions website.
Application Deadlines
- Priority Deadline: December 1, 2025 (for admission and funding consideration)
- Final Deadline: July 1, 2026 (for Fall 2026 start)
*Tip: Early applications have a higher chance of securing funding and admission.
Why You Should Apply
The University of Delaware Graduate Scholarship 2026 provides more than just funding. It offers:
- Advanced academic training in ecological and climate research.
- Opportunities to collaborate with leading scientists at NOAA Fisheries.
- Exposure to global environmental challenges and policy development.
- A strong foundation for a career in research, academia, or environmental management.
