The Stephenson Exploration Advancement (SEA) Program — Research Program

The Stephenson Exploration Advancement Program is a marine-research grant from The Philip Stephenson Foundation and The Explorers Club. It supports conservationists and field scientists whose projects add knowledge and benefit marine ecosystems and dependent communities.

Applicants propose their own fieldwork for the 2027 field season. Projects may take place internationally, but work conducted in China and applications from Chinese citizens cannot be considered.

Benefits & funding

Each award is US$10,000.
The grant can support travel, lodging, meals, transportation, field supplies, equipment, assistants, communications, shipping, and other justified field expenses.
It does not cover visas, immunizations, tuition, student or faculty salaries, or institutional overhead.
Awardees must submit a report and expense statement within six months after completing fieldwork.

Eligibility

College undergraduates, graduate students, and independent explorers under age 35 may apply.
The proposed fieldwork must focus specifically on marine research.
Explorers Club membership is not required.
Research conducted in China and applications from Chinese citizens are ineligible.
Grantees must secure all permits required for their fieldwork.

Can you apply?

Open to all applicants

No nationality, residency, education, or experience limits are listed.

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Application process

1
Read the guidelines and download the form as a worksheet before entering information online.
2
Complete the online form with a concise project title, a 1,500-character abstract, a project description of up to 1,000 words, field locations, dates, budget, outreach plans, permit status, and supervisor details.
3
Upload two letters of support through the application form; letters sent another way are not accepted.
4
Submit the application by October 2, 2026 at 6:00 PM ET.

Program timeline

Applications open under the general Explorers Club grant cycle.
August/September 2026
Application deadline.
October 2, 2026 at 6:00 PM ET
Awards are announced under the general grant-cycle timetable.
March 2027
Funded marine fieldwork takes place.
2027 field season