Community Science Fellowship
This hands-on program gives high school students the opportunity to learn about the field of marine science, both in the field and in the classroom, while engaging in ongoing community science projects.
Summer 2026 Community Science Fellowship
Are you a rising high school sophomore, junior or senior interested in the field of marine science? This six-session program will engage students in ongoing community science projects in Odiorne Point State Park.
- Dates: Wednesdays, June 24–August 19, 2026*
- Apply by: Saturday, June 20, 2026
- Age: Students in grades 10-12
- Time: 1-4pm
- Cost: $350 member/$400 non-member
*Course meets 6 times between these dates. See schedule below.
Summer Community Science Fellowship program is strictly field studies; no school credit offered for the summer semester.
You must have a membership valid through the program to take advantage of the member rate.
About the Summer Semester
The Community Science Fellowship at Seacoast Science Center offers a unique summer program distinct from the fall and spring Marine Science Fellowship semesters. For the summer, rising high school sophomores, juniors and seniors, take part in a condensed six-week term with an emphasis on coastal field survey methods and tools, coastal habitats, and local research studies. Participants engage in ongoing community science projects at Odiorne Point State Park, enhancing their understanding of marine science and field investigation. Get your feet wet and hands dirty learning new skills, collecting data, and experiencing what it’s like to work in the field.
As a Community Science Fellow, you will:
learn about data collection, field survey methods, such as seine netting and beach profiling
gain a greater understanding of the field of Marine Biology through inquiry, investigation, and hands-on experiences at Seacoast Science Center and Odiorne Point State Park
engage in research, improve scientific skills and practices, and foster individuals’ special interests
understand the impact you have on the ocean, the challenges facing our climate, and how you can contribute to a sustainable and healthy ocean
Course Topics
Summer 2026 Semester Schedule
During the Community Science Fellowship, we will be outside each day at Odiorne Point State Park exploring the different habitats, and conducting field research. Each meeting will focus on a different area of study.
Week 1, June 24: Tide pool biodiversity study
Week 2, July 1: Snorkeling and eel grass monitoring
Week 3, July 8: Invasive green crab study
Week 4, July 22: Aquaculture at Odiorne Point State Park
Week 5, August 12: Snorkeling and seine netting
Week 6, August 19: Salt marsh biodiversity study
No high school credit offered for summer semester.
How to Apply
Students must submit an application and letter of interest by Saturday, June 20, 2026 to be considered for participation in the program. Please be advised that space is limited to 15 students.
Questions?
If you have any questions or would like additional information, please email Debbie Lyons at d.lyons@sscnh.org or Richie Harty at r.harty@sscnh.org.
Application and Registration
After you apply, you will receive an email confirmation regarding your application submission. Once your application has been accepted, you will receive instructions on how to register and pay for the program.
Time Commitment
Summer semester: This is a 6-week course with an expected time commitment of 3 hours per week. Students spend their time in the field, in Odiorne Point State Park; no additional projects are required.
Financial Aid
It is our goal to ensure this program is available to all. If you are in need of financial assistance, please reach out to Debbie Lyons at d.lyons@sscnh.org to inquire about our Coastal Education Fund.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations made prior to two weeks before the program begins receive a 50% refund. No refunds will be given after that time.
