The Duke Wetlands and Coast Center in the Nicholas School of the Environment offers grants for graduate students interested in working on wetland research and management issues. The competition is open to both Ph.D. and master’s students at Duke only. Applicants must submit competitive proposals that clearly focus on a topic in wetland science and management (e.g., ecology, plant physiology, biogeochemistry, hydrology, hydrodynamics, sediment transport, economics, and/or policy).
Allowable expenses are those in direct support of activities that will lead to work toward a graduate degree. Broad categories of expenses are allowed under this grant (supplies, equipment, travel, meals, etc.). However, student stipends are limited to half the award amount and only if they directly support graduate research in wetlands-related topics. Funds cannot be used for conference travel, as other Duke graduate funds are available for this activity. Research results are expected to be published in peer-reviewed journals or the appropriate user community.
The application submission period has closed for 2025. Please look back in late 2025 for 2026 proposal format, procedures and deadlines.
The 2025 award winners were notified by May 2nd, 2025
For recipients:
- Reporting: Successful grant recipients must submit a short report (2-3 pages) on activities supported by the grant and must give a 20–30-minute presentation on the status of their research to the Wetland and Coast Center within one year of the grant award.
- Future eligibility: Grant recipients will not be eligible for another such grant until a report related to the work described in the grant proposal is made. Future eligibility is possible, but only two grants may be awarded to any student. A 2nd year award must include a compelling reason for additional funding.
Questions: For general questions on the submission, Neal Flanagan in the Duke Wetland Center (neal.flanagan@duke.edu; 919-613-8087) can assist.