The Shipboard Science Immersion brings educators aboard the EPA Research Vessel (R/V) Lake Guardian to work alongside scientists for a week. Educators also receive a stipend to support integration of Great Lakes literacy through experiential learning and stewardship with their own learners.
In partnership with the EPA Great Lakes National Program Office, the Great Lakes Sea Grant Network organizes this annual immersion experience to promote Great Lakes sciences while forging lasting relationships between scientists and educators. The annual application process opens early in the new year. Join our mailing list to be alerted to this announcement.
R/V Lake Guardian Shipboard Science Immersion Schedule
- 2026: Lake Superior
- 2027: Lake Huron*
- 2028: Lake Ontario*
- 2029: Lake Erie*
- 2030: Lake Michigan*
*Anticipated
Shipboard Science Immersion Educator Expectations
Pre-trip
- Complete pre-program survey.
- Participate in three virtual meetings: Great Lakes 101, Overview of Expedition Projects, and Trip Orientation.
- Complete pre-trip assignments, such as reading journal articles from participating scientists.
During the trip
- Adhere to all safety protocols.
- Work alongside scientists to collect, analyze, and interpret data in the field and in the lab.
- Participate in Great Lakes curricular activities.
- Share experience with the public via digital communications.
- Briefly present (as a team) scientific findings to colleagues, scientists and facilitators.
- Develop a plan for integrating the experience into classroom/programming.
Post-trip
- Incorporate the Great Lakes into your educational programming.
- Participate in post-program virtual check-in meetings with Sea Grant staff and/or fellow participants.
- Complete the post-program and 8-month follow-up surveys.
Additional Details
- Vessel: The EPA R/V Lake Guardian conducts monitoring to assess the health of all five Great Lakes by using state-of-the-art data collection techniques and instruments.
- Cost: The weeklong program is free for participating educators and includes room and board for six nights on the R/V Lake Guardian.
- Stipend: Participating educators will be eligible for a $500 stipend upon the completion of program requirements.
- Credits: Participating educators will receive a certificate of completion for 50 contact hours of professional development.
