Blue Food Futures Research Grant Program

The Blue Food Futures Research Grant Program is administered by the Stanford Center for Ocean Solutions, a leading research hub within the Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability. This center is renowned for catalyzing interdisciplinary research, innovation, and policy action to enhance ocean health for communities that depend on marine ecosystems. In collaboration with prominent global institutions and backed by the Woods Institute for the Environment, the center integrates science and policy to solve pressing environmental challenges. The Blue Food Futures Program (BFFP), endorsed by the UN Ocean Decade, aims to address the critical role of blue or aquatic foods in global food systems transformation. Building on previous efforts such as the Blue Food Assessment and initiatives from the Aquatic Blue Food Coalition, the program bridges gaps in science and policy. It highlights how diverse aquatic foods, sourced from oceans, rivers, and lakes, can contribute to sustainable development goals related to hunger, economic growth, and marine ecosystems. The new Research Grant Program under BFFP continues this mission by supporting emerging researchers with innovative approaches to integrating blue foods into sustainable food systems. The grant provides a six-month appointment to a selected researcher at their home institution. Awardees, known as Blue Food Futures Fellows, are expected to dedicate approximately ten hours per week to the program. The position supports applied research that links blue foods to climate resilience, trade equity, and nutrition. Fellows receive $10,000 in funding, which may be used for research and travel-related expenses. In addition to financial support, the program offers mentorship from leading experts, access to international policy platforms, and integration into a global community of blue food practitioners. Applicants are encouraged to focus on one of three thematic areas: the alignment of blue food systems with climate and biodiversity goals; equitable and sustainable transitions in blue food sectors; or the participation of small-scale fisheries in global trade and its nutritional implications. Fellows will contribute to existing working groups, co-develop a publication with BFFP leadership, and help translate scientific findings into actionable policy recommendations. Research outputs may include peer-reviewed papers, policy briefs, or white papers tailored for global policy fora. Eligibility is restricted to early-career researchers and professionals from academia, NGOs, governments, or the private sector. Applicants must either have completed a PhD within the last five years or be near completion. Strong written and verbal communication in English is required, with preference for those with prior experience in developing countries. Candidates must demonstrate a clear interest in the stated thematic areas and be able to engage with distributed teams, including during nonstandard hours for virtual collaboration. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis beginning October 31, 2025, and will be accepted until the position is filled. To apply, candidates must submit a curriculum vitae, a detailed cover letter, and three references via the designated Google Form. The cover letter must include specific responses to the applicant's research background, interest in the grant, relevant experience, and how their skills align with the program’s goals. Questions should be directed to the program team via [email protected].