National Geographic Society Ocean Exploration & Discovery 2025

Are you an ocean explorer over the age of 18? Applications are now open for the National Geographic Society Ocean Exploration & Discovery 2025 program. This is an incredible opportunity to contribute to the exploration and protection of our blue planet.

🐠 About National Geographic Society Ocean Exploration & Discovery

Throughout history, oceanic expeditions, such as those led by National Geographic Explorers Sylvia Earle and Bob Ballard, have inspired a sense of adventure and urgency to protect our oceans. The ocean remains a source of discovery, capable of sparking awe and curiosity about our world.

To safeguard and learn from the ocean, a collective approach is needed — one that unites scientists from around the globe with unique ideas, perspectives, and solutions.

Opportunity Details:

• Date Published: August 29, 2025
• Application Deadline: October 8, 2025

🎁 Benefits of the Program

Selected projects will receive the following benefits:

• Grants of up to $20,000 USD to cover travel and project-related costs for research, conservation, and/or technology projects.
• Awardees will join the Explorer Community as National Geographic Explorers, gaining access to:
  • Training opportunities
  • Capacity development
  • Network-building resources

✅ Eligibility Criteria

This highly competitive opportunity is best suited for early-career scientists with experience in marine sciences. Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be over the age of 18.
• Have the ability to lead ship-based oceanographic science, deep-sea research, and/or exploratory research with limited guidance.
• Projects should align with the following subfields:
  • Biogeochemistry
  • Mid-Water Biodiversity Exploration
  • Physical Oceanography
  • Mesophotic Ecosystems
  • Marine Technology
  • Underwater Seamounts
• Priority will be given to candidates who:
  • Demonstrate a need for access to scientific infrastructure on Falkor (too).
  • Have strong local networks to enhance project impacts.

📅 Application Date and Process

• The National Geographic Society is accepting applications for Level I grants in partnership with the Schmidt Ocean Institute.
• Full applications are due by October 8, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. EDT.
• Applicants must upload a completed "Additional Information" form detailing their equipment and logistical needs. The form is available here.

📌 Application Deadline

• October 8, 2025

🌐 Application Portal

• View details of the National Geographic Society Ocean Exploration & Discovery program here.
• Apply directly for the program here.

Take this opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking ocean exploration and join a global community of explorers! 🌍

• Grants of up to $20,000 USD to cover travel and project-related costs.
• Awardees will join the Explorer Community as National Geographic Explorers and gain access to training, capacity development, and network building opportunities.