General Educator Fellowships

What is an Earthwatch Educator Fellowship?
Get out of the  classroom and head into the field to learn about cutting edge research and conservation efforts, to develop professional skills, and to make a difference for our shared environment. Bring the world back into your classroom and to your students as you’ve never done before with an Earthwatch Expedition.

As an Earthwatch Educator Fellow you’ll receive funding to join one of more than ninety Earthwatch expeditions worldwide.  If selected, you’ll join a team of other Educator Fellows and/or volunteers and work alongside leading environmental scientists, actively supporting their work, learning field research methods, and helping conserve threatened natural and cultural resources.  You’ll also be asked to share your experiences through developing lessons and giving presentations on your experience, and by attending events designed to spread the word to other educators and volunteers.

No experience is necessary, nor is any particular educational background. You DON’T need to be a science teacher to become an Earthwatch Fellow—all you need is a sense of adventure, a deep curiosity, a love of meaningful work, and a desire to make a difference.

Educator Fellows are exceptional team members. You will not only bring a heightened level of interest and inquiry to an Earthwatch project, but you’ll also be able inspire generations of leaders, scientists, and actively engaged citizens. An Earthwatch Education Fellowship is a powerful opportunity to make a difference for yourself, your education career, and for the world we share.

Also see information on our Student Fellowships.

Who is Eligible to Apply?
All current, in-service K-12 classroom educators in the United States are eligible to apply.*

The strongest candidates for an Earthwatch Education Fellowship are passionate about teaching, excited about making a difference with their time and talents, and committed to engaging their communities using their newfound knowledge, passion, and energy.

K-12 classroom educators are also eligible to apply for our Live From the Field  program, which enables you to communicate with students live from the research site during the your expedition. If you’re interested in being a Live From the Field Fellow, simply check the appropriate box on your Fellowship application!

Earthwatch’s Education Fellowships are national in scope, and supported by a wide range of generous businesses, foundations, and individuals.  If you want to learn more about funders in your area, browse our list of local funders and programs

*You are NOT eligible if you have received more than one prior Earthwatch fellowship, received a fellowship last year, or have reserved a seat on an upcoming expedition.

What Does the Fellowship Cover?
An Earthwatch Fellowship covers the full cost of your expedition, including all research costs, meals, housing, on site travel, etc.

Fellows are responsible for arranging travel to and from their rendezvous site.  However, fellowships typically include reimbursement for some or all of your travel costs to and from the rendezvous. Specific travel reimbursements and fellowship requirements are outlined in all offer letters and reimbursements are made upon the successful completion of your fellowship.

What Can You do as an Educator Fellow?
Explore just some of the Earthwatch expeditions that fellows have joined.

How to Apply

Applications for this fellowship are not being accepted at this time. Email us today and ask to be put on our email list - we'll notify you as soon as we begin accepting new nominations. 

For More Information
If you have any questions about the Earthwatch Education Fellowship programs, refer to our FAQ, email the Earthwatch Fellowship department at fellowshipawards@earthwatch.org, or contact us at 800-776-0188 X268.