Research
Sea Grant Research: Science Serving Oregon's Coast
Oregon Sea Grant supports competitive, peer-reviewed research allowing top ocean and coastal scientists to apply their skills to issues of critical importance to the state, the region, and the nation.
Our grant submission and approval process is guided by a program-wide commitment to:
- Improving human health and safety related to ocean and coastal use
- Promoting social progress and economic vitality
- Enhancing the sustainability of coastal ecosystems
We strive to meet and anticipate the region's changing needs through an integrated program of research, public engagement and education, with the goals of creating an informed and engaged society, and investing in and using sound science. That includes soliciting grant proposals in key issue areas determined - and periodically adjusted - through an ongoing strategic planning process which involves both scientists and stakeholders.
Grant opportunities
Every two years, we award approximately $2 million in research grants through a rigorous, competitive, peer-reviewed process. Smaller Program Development grants are often available between biennial cycles to address urgent or emerging regional needs with high relevance to society. In addition, Sea Grant faculty conduct their own research, with a variety of funding sources, studying issues ranging from community preparedness for climate change to salmon survival to better understanding how people learn.
All research projects are expected to include public outreach and engagement components to ensure that the results of cutting-edge science will be put to work on the ground - and in the water. Sea Grant can also connect scientists with fishermen and others on the coast who can provide ground-truthing and hands-on collaboration.
Researchers come from the leading ranks of academic science in Oregon, often partnering with others from the Pacific Northwest and beyond to explore questions of broader regional, national, or international scope.
Questions?
- For questions about our funding priorities and policies, contact Sea Grant Director Stephen Brandt
- For questions related to scientific aspects of your proposal, contact Sarah Kolesar
- For questions about the application process and submission system, contact Eric Dickey
Learn more ...
- Current and recent Sea Grant research
- Reprints & Theses - Scientific articles and graduate theses by Sea Grant-supported researchers
- Waves of activity help the tide rise in Newport, Oregon Business
- Science and Fisherman Exchange


... when researchers needed a way to deploy hundreds of ocean chemistry monitors, Sea Grant helped recruit fishermen who agreed to attach the sensors to their crab pots. 
