MACAN 2025 Workshop Report

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In July, 2025, MACAN held its Biennial State-of-the-Science Meeting at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC) in Edgewater, Maryland. The workshop brought together researchers, state natural resource managers, federal agencies, and students to discuss the current scientific advances and how data can be used and shared. In addition, industry representatives demonstrated an in-situ pCO2 analyzer (Pro-Oceanus) and discrete water sample methods for DIC and TA (Li-Cor BioSciences). The meeting report is now available.

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<a class="x-el x-el-a c2-27 c2-28 c2-44 c2-b c2-c c2-45 c2-e c2-46 c2-3 c2-2b c2-2c c2-i c2-2d" href="/" rel="">MACAN (the Mid-Atlantic Coastal Acidification Network)</a> is a virtual network of researchers, educators, decision-makers, industry representatives, policy experts, and federal, state, local, and tribal leaders whose mission is to advance knowledge and understanding of the effects of coastal and ocean acidification (COA) and promote regional collaboration to advance this knowledge. This fellowship is designed to introduce students to the field of Coastal and Ocean Acidification, including, but not limited to, aspects of scientific research, policy, industry, education, and/or outreach related to COA. 
MACAN’s fellowship aims to provide an immersive, real-world learning opportunity within the field of COA. This fellowship is also intended to support a project(s) that builds on the activities outlined in the <a class="x-el x-el-a c2-27 c2-28 c2-44 c2-b c2-c c2-45 c2-e c2-46 c2-3 c2-2b c2-2c c2-i c2-2d" href="https://macancms.3lanemarketing.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/MACAN-5-Year-Workplan-2024-2028.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">MACAN 2024-2028 Workplan</a>. The student will interact with one or more mentors to learn about the fundamentals of coastal and ocean acidification (COA) science, policy, industry, education, and outreach. The focus of the fellowship should be data compilation and analysis, with additional creation of outreach and education materials determined by the fellow in consultation with appropriate partners and mentors.
Shellfish are an important economic driver, cultural staple, and ecological resource in the Mid-Atlantic. In 2023, commercial landings of Atlantic Sea Scallops were <a class="x-el x-el-a c2-27 c2-28 c2-44 c2-b c2-c c2-45 c2-e c2-46 c2-3 c2-2b c2-2c c2-i c2-2d" href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/species/atlantic-sea-scallop#:~:text=In%202023%2C%20commercial%20landings%20of,majority%20of%20the%20U.S.%20harvest." rel="">valued at $360 million</a> and landings of Atlantic Surfclams were <a class="x-el x-el-a c2-27 c2-28 c2-44 c2-b c2-c c2-45 c2-e c2-46 c2-3 c2-2b c2-2c c2-i c2-2d" href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/species/atlantic-surfclam" rel="">valued at $34.4 million</a>, while in 2022, landings of Ocean Quahogs were <a class="x-el x-el-a c2-27 c2-28 c2-44 c2-b c2-c c2-45 c2-e c2-46 c2-3 c2-2b c2-2c c2-i c2-2d" href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/species/ocean-quahog" rel="">valued at $12 million</a>. The Mid-Atlantic also has a rich history of shellfish harvesting. Indigenous tribes including the Shinnecock, Lenape, Piscataway, and Nanticoke continue to harvest quahogs for consumption and the creation of wampum. Oysters, clams, scallops, and other shellfish provide environmental benefits, including water filtration, stormwater buffering, and creating reefs that provide habitat for other creatures. They also serve as carbon sinks, mitigating the impacts of changing ocean chemistry by sequestering carbon and filtering excess nutrients and pollution in the water column.  
However, shellfish face population-level risks due to hypoxia as well as factors such as degradation of the substrate on which they live, overfishing, hypoxic conditions, pollution, and coastal and ocean acidification (COA). The impacts of COA on commercial shellfish fisheries are not yet well understood. Through this fellowship, students will design a research project that aligns with priorities of the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, which manages Atlantic Surfclams and Ocean Quahogs, and the New England Fishery Management Council, which manages sea scallops (see <a class="x-el x-el-a c2-27 c2-28 c2-44 c2-b c2-c c2-45 c2-e c2-46 c2-3 c2-2b c2-2c c2-i c2-2d" href="https://d23h0vhsm26o6d.cloudfront.net/2_SOE2025_NEFMC_SSC.pdf" rel="">pages 49-50</a>), as well as those defined by NOAA and other research projects. Projects investigating early life stages and sublethal impacts will be given additional consideration. 
Students will be required to work with a mentor(s), determined through consultation with MACAN, and produce a final product(s). This product(s) could include, but is not limited to, outreach materials, a final paper, a poster presented at a meeting, and/or a digital data product/tool (e.g. data layers on the <a class="x-el x-el-a c2-27 c2-28 c2-44 c2-b c2-c c2-45 c2-e c2-46 c2-3 c2-2b c2-2c c2-i c2-2d" href="https://portal.midatlanticocean.org/url_shortener/eoZJwUDcyl" rel="">Mid-Atlantic Ocean Data Portal</a>). Some travel in the Mid-Atlantic region will be required, and the costs will be covered by the award. Travel opportunities will be determined during project development with MACAN and could include visits to research laboratories, professional conferences, fishery management meetings, or other mentoring opportunities. It is expected that the student will compile relevant fisheries data, including latitude and longitude information, that will be used to build GIS data layers on The Mid-Atlantic Ocean Data Portal. No prior GIS experience is required.
Potential desired outcomes include information and deliverables that can be used to help assess the impacts of COA on shellfisheries, information about impacts to species related to COA, and economic impacts from COA on shellfisheries. Potential desired deliverable products include data layers for The Portal, a webinar, and media materials.
A monthly stipend will be provided to the student through a contracting process directly with the student or academic institution. Period review of the student’s progress will occur to ensure that the project is progressing on the pre-determined timeline during the contracting process.
Students enrolled in a two-year, four-year, or graduate program are eligible; post-graduate students are not eligible. This fellowship could be used as an internship if the student’s program allows it.

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Through Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding from the Mid-Atlantic Regional Council on the Ocean (MARCO), MACAN is offering one-year fellowship opportunities for up to two students, contingent upon the release of funding. The fellowship will be a maximum of $50,000, which will be used to cover:
<ul>
	<li>The final stipend offer amount (up to $40,000) of the reward will be determined by the review committee and will also reflect if the student is at the undergraduate or graduate level; </li>
	<li>Indirect university costs, which vary by institution and will be determined by MARCO during the contracting process if the student elects to receive the stipend through their respective institution; and </li>
	<li>Up to $5,000 (included in the total $50,000) for other direct expenses and travel, including but not limited to publication costs, outreach material, and software, which will be determined during the first month of the performance period during the project scoping. </li>
	<li>Up to $5,000 (included in the total $50,000) for other direct expenses including but not limited to publication costs, printed materials, and software needed to complete capstone. This cost will be determined during the interview process, prior to writing the contract.</li>
</ul>
The Fellowship performance period is from December 1, 2025 through November 30, 2026. 
Laboratory and fieldwork will not be supported by this project. Additionally, any data that is used must either be obtained from a designated mentor(s) or a publicly accessible data repository. 
MARCO will also reimburse the student for travel expenses, which will be determined by MACAN staff with input from the student and mentor(s) during the fellowship performance period.
This fellowship will be awarded by the Coastal States Stewardship Foundation (CSSF) on behalf of MARCO and MACAN, and could be administered through the institution where the student is enrolled or CSSF.

It is expected that the overall fellowship goals, objectives, and final deliverable products (Scope of Work) will be developed with MACAN within the first month of the performance period and the final product delivered by the end of the performance period. Scoping will also include tutorials of the <a class="x-el x-el-a c2-27 c2-28 c2-44 c2-b c2-c c2-45 c2-e c2-46 c2-3 c2-2b c2-2c c2-i c2-2d" href="https://portal.midatlanticocean.org/" rel="">Mid-Atlantic Ocean Data Portal</a> and <a class="x-el x-el-a c2-27 c2-28 c2-44 c2-b c2-c c2-45 c2-e c2-46 c2-3 c2-2b c2-2c c2-i c2-2d" href="https://maracoos.org/oceansmap/" rel="">OceansMap</a>.
Through the next nine to 10 months, the student will complete the project and work with mentors, complete any determined travel.
In months 11 and 12, it is expected that the student will develop the public-facing project deliverables.

The scope of work of the fellowship will advance one or more of the activities outlined in the MACAN Workplan in respect to shellfish industry issues, and at a minimum will include:
<ul>
	<li>Development of a capstone project, including a description of final expected deliverables from the project, expected travel, and potential publication if applicable

<ul>
	<li>The capstone project should be one of the following: outreach materials, a final paper, a poster presented at a meeting, or a digital data product/tool</li>
</ul>
</li>
	<li>Compilation of fisheries data into a matrix to be used for GIS data layers</li>
	<li>Regular communication between the selected Fellow(s) and (a) mentor(s) - identified in partnership with MACAN - that will advise on their final project process, delivery, and publication if applicable</li>
	<li>Attendance during bi-weekly MACAN staff meetings as needed</li>
	<li>Attendance during  quarterly MACAN Steering Committee meetings as needed</li>
	<li>Presentation of the final project during a MACAN-sponsored webinar</li>
</ul>
Predesignation of a mentor(s) is not required, however, if the applicant has someone in mind, the proposed mentor(s) is welcome to submit a letter of support on behalf of the mentee(s) explicitly stating the mentor(s) willingness and commitment to participate in all aspects of the above scope of work. MACAN will provide mentorship throughout the course of the project through its network of collaborators.

<ul>
	<li>Undergraduate or graduate students currently enrolled in a two- or four-year college or university for the duration of  the project period, </li>
	<li>Applicant must be eligible to work in the United States</li>
	<li>Applicant must be able to devote, on average, at least eight hours per week to fellowship activities as listed in the scope of work</li>
	<li>Preference will be given to students with research interests in the Mid-Atlantic (NY, NJ, DE, MD, VA)</li>
</ul>

<ul>
	<li>Written statement (maximum two pages) addressing the questions: 

<ul>
	<li>What interests you most about COA and shellfish?</li>
	<li>What prior experiences do you have with COA? Some prior basic knowledge is required.</li>
	<li>How has your background or life experience influenced your research and/or career interests?</li>
	<li>How do your interests relate to MACAN’s work/workplan?</li>
	<li>How will this fellowship further your career goals? </li>
</ul>
</li>
	<li>Maximum two-page resume demonstrating some COA experience and data compilation</li>
	<li>Most recent unofficial transcript from the institution where the student is enrolled at the time of application</li>
	<li>At least three faculty and/or professional references who will complete a recommendation form to be sent directly to them. It is the students’ responsibility to make sure the recommendation is complete for eligibility.</li>
</ul>
Please note, an interview will be required upon review of application materials for final candidates. Additionally, the student must provide an official transcript at the time of acceptance if requested.
Applications are due by September 21st at 11:59 pm, 2025. Students will be notified by November 1st, 2025 with a start date of December 1st, 2025. 
Please send one PDF document with the subject MACAN Fellowship Application, to: <a class="x-el x-el-a c2-27 c2-28 c2-44 c2-b c2-c c2-45 c2-e c2-46 c2-3 c2-2b c2-2c c2-i c2-2d" href="mailto:jreimer@midatlanticocean.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">jreimer@midatlanticocean.org</a>.
If you have any questions, please contact: Janet Reimer, Mid-Atlantic Regional Council on the Ocean Science Program Manager, <a class="x-el x-el-a c2-27 c2-28 c2-44 c2-b c2-c c2-45 c2-e c2-46 c2-3 c2-2b c2-2c c2-i c2-2d" href="mailto:jreimer@midatlanticocean.org" rel="">jreimer@midatlanticocean.org</a>

Workforce Development Fellowship: Request for Qualifications

Looking for ocean acidification (OA) lesson plans for high school classrooms or homeschoolers? Check out <a class="x-el x-el-a c2-27 c2-28 c2-44 c2-b c2-c c2-45 c2-e c2-46 c2-3 c2-2b c2-2c c2-i c2-2d" href="https://www.monmouth.edu/uci/wp-content/uploads/sites/58/2021/02/OA-Shipwrecks-and-Shell-Middens-Experiment-.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">this hands-on approach</a> to learn how OA impacts shipwrecks and cultural resources, created by McKenna Litynski, a student in the environmental studies and anthropology programs at St Mary's College of Maryland.
If you have additional teaching resources you'd like to share with Mid-Atlantic educators, please contact us at <a class="x-el x-el-a c2-27 c2-28 c2-44 c2-b c2-c c2-45 c2-e c2-46 c2-3 c2-2b c2-2c c2-i c2-2d" href="mailto:info@MidAcan.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">info@MidAcan.org</a>. We'd love your help in building out our <a class="x-el x-el-a c2-27 c2-28 c2-44 c2-b c2-c c2-45 c2-e c2-46 c2-3 c2-2b c2-2c c2-i c2-2d" href="/resources/mid-atlantic-state-ocean-action-planning/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">K-12 Educational Resources</a>!

‘Shipwrecks, Oyster Middens & Artifacts’ Lesson for Grades 9-12

Scientists, water quality program managers, industry members, and community science organizations -- MACAN requests your help with our Ocean and Coastal Acidification Monitoring Inventory. With your assistance, we aim to update the regional Acidification Monitoring Maps on MARCO's Ocean Data Portal, identify real-time datasets that can be incorporated into MARACOOS Oceans Map, and collect information about QA/QC processes currently in use across the region. Not only will the inventory support a gaps analysis to help decision makers identify strategic monitoring locations, optimize sensor choice, and identify opportunities to leverage existing resources, but it will also help further the dialogue on standardizing QA/QC methods to support a more cohesive regional OCA observation network. Information gathered from this inventory may also support NOAA's upcoming Coastal Community Vulnerability Assessment and Monitoring Prioritization plan. 
Please help us build out the inventory by completing this short questionnaire: <a class="x-el x-el-a c2-9 c2-a c2-53 c2-c c2-d c2-54 c2-f c2-55 c2-3 c2-3j c2-n c2-10 c2-p" href="https://delaware.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6F44WFaLd8Xky7s" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://delaware.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6F44WFaLd8Xky7s</a>
We're seeking information about the environments you monitor, the equipment you deploy, the acidification parameters (pH, TA, DIC, and/or pCO2) you're collecting, and the QA/QC standards you're using. Your contributions towards this regional effort are greatly appreciated! Please submit your responses before July 1, 2022, and feel free to share this questionnaire with other program partners or industry members actively monitoring water quality in the Mid-Atlantic region.   
Questions about the Inventory? Please contact Kirstin Wakefield, Stakeholder Outreach Liaison for MACAN, at <a class="x-el x-el-a c2-9 c2-a c2-53 c2-c c2-d c2-54 c2-f c2-55 c2-3 c2-3j c2-n c2-10 c2-p" href="mailto:kirstin@maracoos.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">kirstin@maracoos.org</a>.

MACAN’s Acidification Monitoring Inventory – Updates Requested

New Coastal Acidification Curriculum for Grades 6-12!
This hands-on approach combines chemistry, Legos, and real-world data to help students understand how Mid-Atlantic waters are changing and the impacts this may have on our local species. Designed by our regional partners from the Delaware, New Jersey and Virginia National Estuarine Research Reserves, <a class="x-el x-el-a c2-9 c2-a c2-53 c2-c c2-d c2-54 c2-f c2-55 c2-3 c2-3j c2-n c2-10 c2-p" href="https://www.monmouth.edu/uci/wp-content/uploads/sites/58/2023/02/coastalacidificationmodule-1.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Coastal Acidification in the Classroom</a> is aligned to Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and Virginia Standards of Learning, and will be featured during the Teachers on The Estuary (TOTE) workshops this summer.
If you have comments or additional teaching resources you'd like to share with Mid-Atlantic educators, please contact us at <a class="x-el x-el-a c2-9 c2-a c2-53 c2-c c2-d c2-54 c2-f c2-55 c2-3 c2-3j c2-n c2-10 c2-p" href="mailto:info@MidAcan.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">info@MidAcan.org</a>. We welcome

Coastal Acidification in the Classroom: A Module for the Region

<a class="x-el x-el-a c2-27 c2-28 c2-44 c2-b c2-c c2-45 c2-e c2-46 c2-3 c2-2b c2-2c c2-i c2-2d" href="https://macancms.3lanemarketing.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/MACAN-Workforce-Development-2024-RFP.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">View RFP in PDF Format</a>
Background and Fellowship Overview
<a class="x-el x-el-a c2-27 c2-28 c2-44 c2-b c2-c c2-45 c2-e c2-46 c2-3 c2-2b c2-2c c2-i c2-2d" href="/" rel="">MACAN (the Mid-Atlantic Coastal Acidification Network)</a> is a virtual network of researchers, educators, decision-makers, industry representatives, policy experts, and federal, state, local, and tribal leaders whose mission is to advance knowledge and understanding of the effects of coastal and ocean acidification (COA) and promote regional collaboration to advance this knowledge. This fellowship is designed to introduce students from underrepresented minority groups to the field of Coastal and Ocean Acidification, including, but not limited to, aspects of scientific research, policy, industry, education, and/or outreach related to. 
MACAN’s fellowship aims to  provide an immersive, real world  learning opportunity  while also helping to build  diversity within the field of COA. This fellowship is also intended to support a project(s) that builds on the activities outlined in the <a class="x-el x-el-a c2-27 c2-28 c2-44 c2-b c2-c c2-45 c2-e c2-46 c2-3 c2-2b c2-2c c2-i c2-2d" href="https://macancms.3lanemarketing.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/MACAN-5-Year-Workplan-2024-2028.pdf" rel="">MACAN 2022-2024 Workplan</a>. The student will interact with one or more mentors to learn about the fundamentals of COA science, policy, industry, education, and outreach.
Students will be required to work with a mentor(s), that will be determined through consultation with MACAN, and produce a final  product. This product could include, but is not limited to outreach materials, a final paper, a poster presented at a meeting, or a digital data product/tool. Some travel in the Mid-Atlantic region will be required and the costs will be covered by the award. Travel opportunities will be determined during project development with MACAN, and could include visits to research laboratories, professional conferences, fishery management meetings, or other mentoring opportunities. 
A stipend will be provided to the student through their college or university. Students enrolled in a two-year, four-year, or graduate program are eligible. Fellowship only available to U.S. Citizens. 
This fellowship program will be open to those that identify as part of an underrepresented group as defined by <a class="x-el x-el-a c2-27 c2-28 c2-44 c2-b c2-c c2-45 c2-e c2-46 c2-3 c2-2b c2-2c c2-i c2-2d" href="https://cdn.coastalscience.noaa.gov/page-attachments/about/UnderservedCommunitiesandEnvironmentalJustice.pdf?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=GovDelivery" rel="">NOAA</a>, which could include but is not limited to:
<ul>
	<li>Black, Latino, and Indigenous and Native American persons </li>
	<li>Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders </li>
	<li>Other persons of color </li>
	<li>Members of religious minorities </li>
	<li>Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) persons</li>
	<li>Persons with disabilities</li>
	<li>Persons who live in rural areas </li>
	<li>Persons otherwise adversely affected by persistent poverty or inequality</li>
</ul>
Availability of Funds
Through Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding from the Mid-Atlantic Regional Council on the Ocean (MARCO), MACAN is offering one-year fellowship opportunities for at least two students. The fellowship will be a maximum of $35,000 which will be used to cover:
<ul>
	<li>A $10,000 - $22,000 stipend. The final offer amount will be determined by the review committee; </li>
	<li>Indirect university costs, which varies by institution and will be determined by MARCO during the application process; and </li>
	<li>Up to $10,000 for other direct expenses and travel, including but not limited to publication costs, outreach material, and software, which will be determined during the first month of the performance period. </li>
</ul>
The Fellowship performance period is from December 1, 2023 through November 30, 2024. 
Laboratory and fieldwork will not be supported by this project. Additionally, any data that is used must either be obtained from a designated mentor(s) or a publicly accessible data repository. 
MARCO will also reimburse the student for travel expenses, which will be determined by MACAN staff with input from the student and mentor(s) during the fellowship performance period.
This fellowship will be awarded by the Coastal States Stewardship Foundation on behalf of MARCO and MACAN, and administered through the institution where the student is enrolled. 
Timeline
It is expected that the overall fellowship goals, objectives, and final deliverable products (Scope of Work) will be developed with MACAN within the first month of the performance period and final product delivered by the end of the performance period. 
Scope of Work
The scope of work of the fellowship will advance one or more of the activities outlined in the MACAN Work Plan, and at a minimum will include:
<ul>
	<li>Development of a capstone project, including a description of final expected deliverables from the project, expected travel, and potential publication if applicable

<ul>
	<li>The capstone project should be one of the following: outreach materials, a final paper, a poster presented at a meeting, or a digital data product/tool.</li>
</ul>
</li>
	<li>Regular communication between the selected Fellow(s) and (a) mentor(s) - identified in partnership with MACAN - that will advise on their final project process, delivery, and publication if applicable</li>
	<li>Attendance during bi-weekly MACAN staff meetings</li>
	<li>Attendance during  quarterly MACAN Steering Committee meetings</li>
	<li>Presentation of the final project during a MACAN-sponsored webinar</li>
</ul>
Predesignation of a mentor(s) is not required, however, if the applicant has someone in mind, the proposed mentor(s) is welcome to submit a letter of support on behalf of the mentee(s) explicitly stating the mentor(s) willingness and commitment to participate in all aspects of the above scope of work. MACAN will provide mentorship throughout the course of the project through its network of collaborators.
Eligibility Requirements
<ul>
	<li>Undergraduate or graduate students currently enrolled in a two- or four-year college or university for the duration of  the project period, </li>
	<li>Must be from an underrepresented minority group including, but not limited to, those groups mentioned above</li>
	<li>Applicant must be eligible to work in the United States</li>
	<li>Applicant must be able to devote, on average, at least eight hours per week to fellowship activities as listed in the scope of work</li>
	<li>Preference will be given to students with research interests in the Mid-Atlantic (NY, NJ, DE, MD, VA)</li>
</ul>
Application Requirements
<ul>
	<li>Written statement (maximum two-pages) addressing the questions: 

<ul>
	<li>What interests you most about COA?</li>
	<li>How has your background or life experience influenced your research and/or career interests?</li>
	<li>How do your interests relate to MACAN’s work/workplan?</li>
	<li>How will this fellowship further your career goals? </li>
</ul>
</li>
	<li>Maximum two-page resume with most recent experience (no COA experience required)</li>
	<li>Most recent unofficial transcript from the institution where the student is enrolled at the time of application</li>
	<li>At least three faculty and/or professional references.</li>
</ul>
Please note, an interview may be required upon initial review of application materials. Additionally, the student must provide an official transcript at the time of acceptance.
Applications are due by October 31st at 11:59 pm, 2023. Students will be notified by November 1st, 2023 with a start date of December 1st, 2023. 
Please send one PDF document with the subject MACAN Fellowship Application, to: <a class="x-el x-el-a c2-27 c2-28 c2-44 c2-b c2-c c2-45 c2-e c2-46 c2-3 c2-2b c2-2c c2-i c2-2d" href="mailto:jreimer@midatlanticocean.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">jreimer@midatlanticocean.org</a>.
If you have any questions, please contact: Janet Reimer, Mid-Atlantic Regional Council on the Ocean Science Program Manager, <a class="x-el x-el-a c2-27 c2-28 c2-44 c2-b c2-c c2-45 c2-e c2-46 c2-3 c2-2b c2-2c c2-i c2-2d" href="mailto:jreimer@midatlanticocean.org" rel="">jreimer@midatlanticocean.org</a>

MACAN Workforce Development Fellowship Request for Proposals

<a class="x-el x-el-a c2-9 c2-a c2-53 c2-c c2-d c2-56 c2-f c2-57 c2-3 c2-3j c2-n c2-10 c2-p" href="/" rel="">MACAN (the Mid-Atlantic Coastal Acidification Network)</a> is a virtual network of researchers, educators, decision-makers, industry representatives, policy experts, and federal, state, local, and tribal leaders whose mission is to advance knowledge and understanding of the effects of coastal and ocean acidification (COA) and promote regional collaboration to advance this knowledge. This fellowship is designed to first advance COA education in formal, standards-based, classroom settings in Virginia Public Schools and eventually other Mid-Atlantic states. The long-term goal is that the COA curriculum expanded through this fellowship opportunity will also provide a model for public school science curriculum across the United States. 
MACAN’s fellowship aims to provide an immersive, real world learning opportunity while also helping to build diversity within the field of COA. This fellowship is also intended to support a project(s) that builds on the activities outlined in the <a class="x-el x-el-a c2-9 c2-a c2-53 c2-c c2-d c2-56 c2-f c2-57 c2-3 c2-3j c2-n c2-10 c2-p" href="https://macancms.3lanemarketing.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/MACAN-5-Year-Workplan-2024-2028.pdf" rel="">MACAN 2022-2024 Workplan</a>. The student will interact with one or more mentors to learn about the fundamentals of COA science, policy, industry, education, and outreach.
Students will be required to work with a mentor(s), that will be determined through consultation with MACAN, and produce a final product. This product could include, but is not limited to outreach materials, a final paper, a poster presented at a meeting, or a digital data product/tool. There will be discussion with the chosen fellow within the first month of the fellowship to determine what the final product(s) will be and will be written into the contract. Some travel in the Mid-Atlantic region will be required and the costs will be covered by the award. Travel opportunities will be determined during project development with MACAN, and could include visits to research laboratories, professional conferences, NOAA program offices, or other mentoring and hands-on opportunities. 
Funds will be distributed either through a stipend to the Fellow through their college or university or a 1099 contract directly with the Fellow. Students currently enrolled in a bachelor's or graduate program are eligible. If applicable, continuing education credits may be granted depending on agreements with individual institutions and/or accredited organizations and will be determined during the selection process.
This fellowship program is open to US Citizens. Students enrolled in Virginia colleges or graduate schools or teachers employed in the State of Virginia will be given priority due to their familiarity with the school system and educational needs and methods and proximity to the primary mentors (located in Gloucester Point, VA); the next priority will be residents of the Mid-Atlantic region.
This fellowship program will be open to those that identify as part of an underrepresented group as defined by <a class="x-el x-el-a c2-9 c2-a c2-53 c2-c c2-d c2-56 c2-f c2-57 c2-3 c2-3j c2-n c2-10 c2-p" href="https://cdn.coastalscience.noaa.gov/page-attachments/about/UnderservedCommunitiesandEnvironmentalJustice.pdf?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=GovDelivery" rel="">NOAA</a>, which could include but is not limited to:
<ul>
	<li>Black, Latino, and Indigenous and Native American persons</li>
	<li>Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders </li>
	<li>Other persons of color </li>
	<li>Members of religious minorities </li>
	<li>Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) persons</li>
	<li>Persons with disabilities</li>
	<li>Persons who live in rural areas </li>
	<li>Persons otherwise adversely affected by persistent poverty or inequality</li>
</ul>

Through Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding from the Mid-Atlantic Regional Council on the Ocean (MARCO), MACAN is offering an up to 18-month fellowship opportunity. The fellowship will be a maximum of $65,000 which will be used to cover:
<ul>
	<li>A stipend including direct (salary) and indirect (fringe and overhead) costs to the college or university. The final offer amount and how it is distributed over direct and indirect funds will be determined by the review committee and the college/university.</li>
	<li>A 1099 contract may be elected to pay funds directly to the fellow.</li>
	<li>Indirect university costs (from the above bullet point), which varies by institution and will be determined by MARCO during the application process and could impact the direct salary amount to the fellow; and </li>
	<li>Up to $5,000 for other direct expenses for travel, which will be determined during the performance period. </li>
</ul>
The Fellowship performance period is from September 2, 2024, through February 27, 2026. With the expectation that curriculum would be available to be included in teaching standards beginning with the 2025-2026 school year.
Laboratory and fieldwork will not be supported by this project. Additionally, any data that is used must either be obtained from a designated mentor(s) or a publicly accessible data repository. 
MARCO will also reimburse the student for travel expenses, which will be determined by MACAN staff with input from the student and mentor(s) during the fellowship performance period.
This fellowship will be awarded by the Coastal States Stewardship Foundation on behalf of MARCO and MACAN, and may be administered through the institution where the student is enrolled.

It is expected that the overall final deliverable products and Scope of Work will be developed with MACAN within the first month of the performance period and final product delivered by the end of the performance period. The maximum allowed time for the completion of the curriculum will be 18 months, including presentation at meetings.
Applications will be accepted until June 30th, 2024. Interviews will be scheduled for the second half of July. The expected start date is September 2, 2024.

This fellowship will expand upon the lessons created for our current Coastal Acidification Curriculum, including real-world acidification monitoring data and interviews from teachers piloting this curriculum to provide a more broadly applicable resource for biology, chemistry, and environmental science teachers in the Mid-Atlantic region. The fellow will work with mentors from the Chesapeake Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (CBNERR). The goal of this project is also to advance the development of the Mid-Atlantic based curriculum to be a resource for educators nationwide:
<ul>
	<li>Bring current <a class="x-el x-el-a c2-9 c2-a c2-53 c2-c c2-d c2-56 c2-f c2-57 c2-3 c2-3j c2-n c2-10 c2-p" href="https://oceanacidification.noaa.gov/resources/coastal-acidification-in-the-classroom-grades-9-12/" rel="">Coastal Acidification in the Classroom</a> curriculum up to <a class="x-el x-el-a c2-9 c2-a c2-53 c2-c c2-d c2-56 c2-f c2-57 c2-3 c2-3j c2-n c2-10 c2-p" href="https://www.nextgenscience.org/#:~:text=The%20Next%20Generation%20Science%20Standards%20%28NGSS%29%20are%20K%E2%80%9312,a%20set%20of%20research-based%2C%20up-to-date%20K%E2%80%9312%20science%20standards." rel="">Next Generation Science Standards </a>(NGSS) curriculum up to</li>
	<li>Develop two biological impacts lessons and one data mystery lesson for Mid-Atlantic focused biology, environmental science, or chemistry curriculum, that would be appropriate for grades 9-12, and may include multiple grade-level curriculum. </li>
	<li>Attend <a class="x-el x-el-a c2-9 c2-a c2-53 c2-c c2-d c2-56 c2-f c2-57 c2-3 c2-3j c2-n c2-10 c2-p" href="https://www.vims.edu/research/units/centerspartners/map/education/profdev/VASEA/gradworkshop.php" rel="">VA SEA Lesson Plan Project for Science Graduate Students </a>(remote option) in the Fall of 2025 to learn best practices in developing lessons and publish the lesson plan(s) on VA SEA catalog at VIMS </li>
	<li>Present lessons at the Summer 2025 Teachers On The Estuary (TOTES) workshop, run by the National Estuarine Research Reserves, in VA and/or other Mid-Atlantic TOTES </li>
	<li>Remotely interview teachers about the curriculum products and classroom use. Results of the interviews will be incorporated into the lesson plans and possibly shared in a publication at the discretion of the project mentor(s)</li>
	<li>Present lessons learned from curriculum development, teacher workshops, and interviews at a national science educators meeting, for example, National Marine Educators Association (NMEA) or National Science Teacher Association (NSTA), and/or Coastal and Estuarine Research Federation (CERF) meetings in 2025 </li>
	<li>Regular (once to twice per month) communication between the selected Fellow(s) and (a) mentor(s) - identified in partnership with MACAN - that will advise on their final project process, delivery, and publication if applicable</li>
	<li>Attendance as needed or requested during bi-weekly MACAN staff meetings</li>
	<li>Attendance during  quarterly MACAN Steering Committee meetings</li>
	<li>Presentation ofthe project during a MACAN-sponsored webinar, Spring 2025</li>
</ul>
MACAN and CBNERR will provide mentorship throughout the course of the project through its network of collaborators.

<ul>
	<li>Undergraduate or graduate students currently enrolled in a U.S. college or university (graduation could occur before the termination of the project/contract);</li>
	<li>Non-students are also eligible to apply and will be asked to provide final transcripts showing completion of their degree in a related field of study;</li>
	<li>Must be able to travel, especially during the summer 2025;</li>
	<li>Applicant must be United States citizens with preference given to residents of the Mid-Atlantic;</li>
	<li>Applicant must be able to devote, on average, at least eight hours per week to fellowship activities as listed in the scope of work;</li>
	<li>Preference will be given to students or professionals in Virginia with backgrounds in science teaching and education.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Bring current <a class="x-el x-el-a c2-9 c2-a c2-53 c2-c c2-d c2-56 c2-f c2-57 c2-3 c2-3j c2-n c2-10 c2-p" href="https://oceanacidification.noaa.gov/resources/coastal-acidification-in-the-classroom-grades-9-12/" rel="">Coastal Acidification in the Classroom</a> curriculum up to <a class="x-el x-el-a c2-9 c2-a c2-53 c2-c c2-d c2-56 c2-f c2-57 c2-3 c2-3j c2-n c2-10 c2-p" href="https://www.nextgenscience.org/#:~:text=The%20Next%20Generation%20Science%20Standards%20%28NGSS%29%20are%20K%E2%80%9312,a%20set%20of%20research-based%2C%20up-to-date%20K%E2%80%9312%20science%20standards." rel="">Next Generation Science Standards </a>(NGSS) curriculum up to</li>
	<li>Develop two biological impacts lessons and one data mystery lesson for Mid-Atlantic focused biology, environmental science, or chemistry curriculum, that would be appropriate for grades 9-12, and may include multiple grade-level curriculum. </li>
	<li>Attend <a class="x-el x-el-a c2-9 c2-a c2-53 c2-c c2-d c2-56 c2-f c2-57 c2-3 c2-3j c2-n c2-10 c2-p" href="https://www.vims.edu/research/units/centerspartners/map/education/profdev/VASEA/gradworkshop.php" rel="">VA SEA Lesson Plan Project for Science Graduate Students </a>(remote option) in the Fall of 2025 to learn best practices in developing lessons and publish the lesson plan(s) on VA SEA catalog at VIMS </li>
	<li>Present lessons at the Summer 2025 Teachers On The Estuary (TOTES) workshop, run by the National Estuarine Research Reserves, in VA and/or other Mid-Atlantic TOTES </li>
	<li>Remotely interview teachers about the curriculum products and classroom use. Results of the interviews will be incorporated into the lesson plans and possibly shared in a publication at the discretion of the project mentor(s)</li>
	<li>Present lessons learned from curriculum development, teacher workshops, and interviews at a national science educators meeting, for example, National Marine Educators Association (NMEA) or National Science Teacher Association (NSTA), and/or Coastal and Estuarine Research Federation (CERF) meetings in 2025 </li>
	<li>Regular (once to twice per month) communication between the selected Fellow(s) and (a) mentor(s) - identified in partnership with MACAN - that will advise on their final project process, delivery, and publication if applicable</li>
	<li>Attendance as needed or requested during bi-weekly MACAN staff meetings</li>
	<li>Attendance during  quarterly MACAN Steering Committee meetings</li>
	<li>Presentation ofthe project during a MACAN-sponsored webinar, Spring 2025</li>
</ul>
MACAN and CBNERR will provide mentorship throughout the course of the project through its network of collaborators.

<ul>
	<li>Written statement (maximum two-pages) addressing the questions: </li>
	<li>What interests you most about coastal ocean science and/or COA?</li>
	<li>Why are you interested in science curriculum development? Describe any previous experience with curriculum development for high school students, or with teaching in an informal science education setting or a formal classroom.

<ul>
	<li>Maximum two-page resume with most recent experience (no COA experience required)</li>
	<li>Most recent unofficial transcript from the institution if the student is enrolled at the time of application, OR final transcript from the most recent degree-granting institution with official transcripts possibly being requested at the time the contact is developed</li>
	<li>At least two years of experience in the field of science teaching (formal or informal) </li>
	<li>At least three faculty and/or professional references (letters of recommendation accepted, at minimum must provide email address, name, and phone number of reference), MACAN will be contacting references via emailHow will this fellowship further your career goals?</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
Please note, an interview may be required upon initial review of application materials. Additionally, the student may be asked to provide an official transcript at the time of acceptance.
Applications are due by June 30th at 11:59 pm, 2024. Applicants will be notified by August 1st, 2024, with a start date of September 2nd, 2024. 
Please send one PDF document with the subject MACAN Fellowship Application, to: <a class="x-el x-el-a c2-9 c2-a c2-53 c2-c c2-d c2-56 c2-f c2-57 c2-3 c2-3j c2-n c2-10 c2-p" href="mailto:jreimer@midatlanticocean.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">jreimer@midatlanticocean.org</a>.
If you have any questions, please contact: Janet Reimer, Mid-Atlantic Regional Council on the Ocean Science Program Manager, <a class="x-el x-el-a c2-9 c2-a c2-53 c2-c c2-d c2-56 c2-f c2-57 c2-3 c2-3j c2-n c2-10 c2-p" href="mailto:jreimer@midatlanticocean.org" rel="">jreimer@midatlanticocean.org</a> 
Mid-Atlantic Regional Council on the Ocean
Award ID Number: NA23NOS4730041
Task 2, Subtask 2.5

Apply Now for MACAN Fellowship

<div class="x-el c2-1 c2-2 c2-b c2-c c2-2m c2-1j c2-1l c2-2n c2-2t c2-2u c2-2v c2-3 c2-2w c2-4 c2-h c2-5 c2-6 c2-7 c2-8 x-rt" data-ux="BlogContent" data-typography="BodyAlpha">
The date January 8 has been recognized worldwide as an Ocean Acidification Day of Action. Take a look at this infographic for a list of steps you can take to address the issue
</div>

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Jan. 8 Is the Global ‘OA Day of Action’

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About Us

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MACAN’s committed to understanding, predicting, and mitigating the impact of acidification on our oceans and coastal ecosystems.

A collaborative team committed to addressing the pressing environmental issue of coastal acidification in our region.

What is Acidification

Increased atmospheric carbon dioxide drives ocean acidification, lowering pH.

Diverse monitoring addresses complex coastal and estuarine acidification drivers.

Factors such as geography, climate, and human activities vary across different regions, impacting the extent and rate of ocean acidification.

Ocean acidification is driven by excess global carbon dioxide and water pollution from land runoff, and there are ways communities can help.

Species Impact

Converting ocean acidification data into insights about the species living in our water.

Microscopic marine plants that form the base of ocean food webs.

Blue crabs are crucial to Mid-Atlantic ecology and economy.

Gorgonian sea fans and bamboo corals create vital deep-sea habitats.

A diverse group of animals vital to fisheries.

Mid-Atlantic finfish are essential to marine ecosystems and economies alike.

Vital food web organisms with varying responses.

SAV, including eelgrass, provide vital coastal habitat.

Highly complex webs of species that mix in space and time.

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Webinars

OA Policy and mCDR

Ocean acidification action planning is states coordinating efforts to monitor, mitigate, and build resilience against acidification threats.

Marine carbon dioxide removal (mCDR) is a technique being investigated to mitigate climate change.

Resources

A wealth of informational resources on estuarine, coastal, and ocean acidification in the Mid-Atlantic.

References on estuarine, coastal, and ocean acidification in the Mid-Atlantic.

Explore our full collection of resources

Explore concise fact sheets and publications for key insights and actionable information.

Access and utilize data resources for in-depth analysis and informed decision-making.

Discover tools and materials designed to support educators in teaching and inspiring students.

Review detailed workshop reports for insights, outcomes, and actionable recommendations.

Visualize key information and data through engaging and easy-to-understand infographics.

MACAN 2025 Workshop Report

MACAN 2025 Workshop Report

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