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AquEOUS – Aquaculture Experiential Opportunities for Undergraduate STUDENTS

Integrating Indigenous and Western Science through Applied Aquaculture Research

Welcome to the Aquaculture Research Institute (ARI) at the University of Maine!

Our Aquaculture Experiential Opportunities for Undergraduate Students (AquEOUS) summer research fellowship offers an exceptional opportunity for undergraduates to explore sustainable aquaculture, aquatic food systems, and marine science while building the professional skills needed for successful careers in aquaculture, fisheries, marine extension, and natural resource management. A defining feature of our program is the integration of Two-Eyed Seeing, a framework that combines ecological knowledge from Indigenous science with STEM concepts from Western science to tackle real-world challenges in aquaculture.

About the Program

The AquEOUS fellowship is a USDA-funded Research and Extension Experiences for Undergraduates (REEU) program designed to provide a transformative experience for curious and motivated students from diverse backgrounds. This 10-week program emphasizes hands-on research, offering students the opportunity to design projects with mentorship from interdisciplinary faculty, industry leaders, and Indigenous knowledge keepers from the Wabanaki Center and Wabanaki Youth in Science.

Participants will live on-site at the University of Maine’s Darling Marine Center in Walpole, the university’s marine campus. The program includes field trips, seminars, and professional development workshops that prepare students for an immersive summer of research and growth at world-class aquaculture facilities.

Why should I be a AquEOUS-REEU participant?

Hands-On Research

Engage in real research, extensions and communications projects and make meaningful contributions to sustainable aquaculture.

Expert Mentorship

Work closely with experienced researchers and knowledge keepers who are leaders in their respective fields.

Diverse Research Areas

Explore a wide range of interdisciplinary research topics, from shellfish husbandry and seaweed nursery techniques to aquaculture communications and land-based eel production.

Community Support

Join a vibrant and supportive community of researchers who share your passion for creating a more sustainable world.

Professional Development

Enhance your skills, knowledge, and network to kick-start your career in the field of sustainable aquaculture and aquatic science

Eligibility

Our REEU program is open to undergraduate students from various academic backgrounds who share a passion for research in indigenous science, sustainable aquaculture, food systems, and aquatic science. All students are welcome to apply! Students who have faced systemic barriers to accessing higher education and other educational opportunities, or are underrepresented in the sciences are encouraged to apply. To be eligible, you should:

Be enrolled a rising junior or senior in an accredited undergraduate program with a passion for aquaculture and inclusive and sustainable research methods.
Have US Citizenship or Permanent Residency.
Demonstrate interest in engagement with indigenous communities and knowledge and changing paradigms in research practices.
Maintain good academic standing.

Research Areas

Choose a research area that aligns with your interests and career goals within sustainable aquaculture, food systems, and marine science. Our program covers diverse fields, including:

Indigenous Science and Two-eyed seeing methods
Social Sustainability and Community Extension
Aquaculture Communications
Aquatic Animal Health
Conservation Aquaculture
Land-based Husbandry Systems
Ecosystem Resilience and Environmental Sustainability

Contact Us

If you have any questions or need further information about our REEU program, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us:

For questions regarding the REEU program or application process, please contact Meggan Dwyer at meggan.dwyer@maine.edu

We look forward to receiving your application!

Is the AquEOUS-REEU Right for Me?

This program might be the perfect fit if you:

Are curious about Indigenous science, sustainable aquaculture, marine science, science communication, or interdisciplinary research.
Have little to no prior research experience and are eager to learn.
Are considering graduate school or a career in aquaculture, fisheries, or extension.
Want to gain skills in data analysis, sampling methods, and field/lab work.
Attend a university, college, or community college with limited research opportunities.
Value being part of a diverse, supportive research community.

If you answered YES! to any of the above, AquEOUS-REEU is designed for you! This program will introduce you to developing and executing research projects, even if you have no prior field or lab experience.

Our goal is to help you understand what “doing research” truly means while giving you the tools and support to achieve your STEM career goals—or even help you figure out what those goals might be!

REEU Timeline and Expectations

Timeline

Length: 10 weeks (June 2 – August 8, 2025)
Arrival: Students are expected to arrive on-site by 9 a.m. on Monday, June 2, 2025.
Departure: Program ends Friday, August 8, 2025.
Flexibility: Start times may be adjusted for students on trimester schedules.

Program Expectations

Hours: Full-time (40+ hours per week). Specific schedules will be arranged with research mentors.
- Note: Additional employment is not permitted to ensure full engagement with the program.

Program Details

Program Dates

Length: 10 weeks (June 2 – August 8, 2025)
Arrival: Students are expected to arrive on-site by 9 a.m. on Monday, June 2, 2025.
Departure: Program ends Friday, August 8, 2025.
Flexibility: Start times may be adjusted for students on trimester schedules.

Financial Support

Participants will receive:

$6,000 stipend for the summer.
Room and board at the University of Maine Darling Marine Center.
- Meals provided in Brooke Dining Hall; a shared kitchen is available for student use.
- Housing is in double-occupancy dorms.
Up to $250 for research materials (if needed).
Limited travel support to Maine may be available

Learning Plan and Professional Development

Participants will work with mentors to create a customized learning plan that includes:

Developing and executing an independent research project.
Writing research objectives and documenting the research experience.
Attending weekly professional development seminars on topics such as inclusive science communication, Two-Eyed Seeing, and Indigenous cultural knowledge.
Presenting research at the UMaine Summer Undergraduate Research Symposium.

The program also includes career panels to explore a variety of STEM career options.

Field Trips and Activities

Students will participate in:

Visits to aquaculture farms, field sites, and aquatic labs.
A youth extension day focused on sharing knowledge.
Activities designed to deepen understanding of sustainable aquaculture through the lens of Two-Eyed Seeing.

Participating Faculty Labs and Research Programs

New labs are being added so check back soon

Inclusive Aquaculture Communications

A diversity of perspectives strengthens the overall sustainability of the aquaculture sector and inclusive science communication is key to making sure the benefits are accessible. Using communications tools such as social media, story maps, podcasts, and interactive graphics, the AquEOUS fellow will work with the broader cohort to develop communication products that integrate diverse ways of knowing for a wider audience. Incorporating indigenous perspectives, the goal is to forge a new narrative landscape—one that amplifies inclusivity and highlights the relevance of varied knowledge systems in shaping modern aquaculture discourse.

Academic Mentorship: TBD

Sustainable Aquaculture with American Unagi

Undergraduate students participating in this fellowship will engage hands-on with American eels cultivated at the American Unagi RAS facility in Waldoboro, Maine. They’ll gain practical experience conducting water quality tests, monitoring oxygen levels, and handling the fish through tasks like sampling and grading. Working alongside management, students will develop a project relevant to the farm’s objectives. American Unagi prioritizes growing a traceable and sustainable fish while upholding a well-managed fishery deeply rooted in the local working waterfront. The historical significance of eels within indigenous cultures worldwide, including the close relationship with Maine’s Wabanaki tribes who traditionally fish for glass eels, will be explored. Students will collaborate closely with the Passamaquoddy at Indian Township and tribal harvesters, immersing themselves in a unique experience that offers real-world insights into aquaculture complexities. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the role of community collaboration in fostering sustainable economic development. This fellowship, stationed at the Darling Marine Center, spans 10 weeks and requires students to have reliable transportation throughout the program

Academic Mentorship: Kathleen Marciano

Intertidal Oyster Aquaculture

This project aims to explore the potential of intertidal oyster culture in Maine, comparing it with traditional farming methods such as floating oyster cages over a multi-year production cycle. Students will be based at the Darling Marine Center on the Damariscotta River Estuary and will kick off the study tracking intertidal seed oyster growth, shell shape, and mortality rates at the ARI experimental aquaculture farm. Students based at the center will gain hands-on experience in field methods, oyster aquaculture husbandry, and environmental monitoring. The research will emphasize site selection, considering factors like water quality and substrate composition.

Academic Mentorship: Damian Brady, Adam St. Gelais, Tom Kiffney

Oysters in Maine Rivers, Past Present and Future

Students will work on one of two on-going projects involving oyster aquaculture in Maine’s coastal rivers and estuaries. The first project is focused on using genomic selection to develop disease-resistant oysters exhibiting superior growth under current conditions currently observed in Maine’s rivers as well as conditions they will experience as a result of climate change. The second project will investigate the impacts of parasitic polychaetes (blister worms) on the quality of oysters grown in Maine’s rivers. Students working on either project will explore the history of tribal use and views on the exploitation of Maine’s coastal rivers and develop a survey to assess the degree to which shellfish farmers in Maine are aware of tribal views regarding the exploitation of coastal resources and how their culture practices recognize and incorporate tribal knowledge.

Academic Mentorship: Paul Rawson

How to Apply for the AquEOUS Fellowship

The AquEOUS Summer Research Fellowship at the University of Maine is a highly competitive opportunity for passionate and driven undergraduates to engage in cutting-edge research in sustainable aquaculture, and marine science through the lens of two eyed seeing. Applicants should demonstrate a strong interest in the integration of Indigenous science and Western STEM concepts, as this is central to the program’s mission. Applications that do not address an interest in these concepts will not be considered.

We strongly encourage applicants to submit a video personal statement of no more than 5 minutes, but a written personal statement of up to 500 words is also acceptable. Your personal statement is a vital part of the application and should emphasize your research interests, experience, and commitment to bridging Indigenous and Western scientific knowledge.

Application Package Requirements
When you click the “Apply to Be a Fellow” link, be prepared to upload the following documents in PDF, Word, or video format:

Personal Statement (Video or Written): Describe your academic interests, research experience, and career goals. Explain how this fellowship aligns with your aspirations and how you will incorporate indigenous knowledge into your work. Discuss why you are particularly interested in the AquEOUS program and highlight any challenges you have overcome. (Video: max 5 minutes, Written: max 500 words)
Resume: Include sections on education, volunteer service, employment, and relevant skills. (2-page limit)
Unofficial Undergraduate Transcripts
Recommendation Letters: Provide the names, phone numbers and email addresses of two mentors, professors, employers, or tribal leader who can provide a reference. They will be contacted separately to speak to your abilities. Make sure to indicate your research interests when prompted in the application. Applications missing any required materials will not be considered.

Resources to aid in application completion:
UMaine Career Center Resume Guide
UMaine Career Center Content for Cover Letters

APPLY TO BE A FELLOW

Still Thinking?

Check out these student videos and podcast to learn about their experiences!!