Girls in Science

Join the next generation of women scientists. 

Earthwatch’s Girls in Science fellowship empowers teens to expand their interest in science and technology and to build confidence through hands-on environmental research. Since launching the program in 2016, Earthwatch has awarded 70 high school girls the fully funded opportunity to perform scientific research alongside female experts in the field. 

Using high-tech equipment and careful observation, these young women help collect crucial data in the search for solutions to some of the world’s most pressing environmental challenges. 

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Learn more about Girls in Science

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Program Details

The ideal candidate is interested in exploring science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM); is a member of a group historically underrepresented in STEAM; and has not had extensive similar experiences. We are committed to assembling a diverse group of fellows, especially with respect to gender identity, race or ethnicity, and socioeconomic status.

In order to be eligible for this fellowship, applicants need to: 

  • Be 15–18 and sophomores or juniors in high school upon applying
  • Live and attend school in the state of Massachusetts, California, or attend Rex Putnam High School in Milwaukie, Oregon
  • Identify as female or nonbinary*

Girls in Science is growing! With an increase in funding, we are excited to host more fellows in more places. Learn more about each of our field sites: 

*This expedition is available for California applicants only

Each expedition has different things to discover—you might collect data on a kayak, search for plant species in the intertidal zone, learn about the clamming industry, or hike the coast. We hope that every fellow, no matter where they go, will leave the expedition with an understanding of their place in STEAM, the confidence to succeed, and the words to tell their own story! 

To complete the fellowship, awarded fellows are required to: 

  • Complete a Volunteer Evaluation at the beginning and end of their expedition.
  • Complete a Field Report within 30 days following the end of the expedition, including an essay detailing your field experience and a thank you letter to the funder.
  • Present to their school and/or community about their experience after the expedition.

Start your story and apply today! 

Applications for Girls in Science 2023 are now open. Applications are due March 24, 2023.

*The goal of this program is to improve gender equality in the science fields by creating a safe learning environment for all fellows. This program accepts female and nonbinary teens who are interested in being in a female-identified space. We are happy to set up a conversation to see if this is the right program for you. 

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Questions? Email GIS@earthwatch.org to learn more

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Share your passion and stay involved.

Check out our Earthwatch Facebook page to connect with past student fellows, share stories, see the latest expedition photos, and find out when an Earthwatch representative is coming to your school! You can also find updates about our upcoming expeditions or application deadlines and get your questions answered by past team members and Earthwatch staff.

Follow us at Earthwatch on Instagram and find us on Twitter at @earthwatch_org to see photos and updates from the field and to learn more about our expeditions!

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Earthwatch Girls in Science fellows have learned the power of their own potential, writing a new narrative for themselves and the world at large.
After their week in the field, Girls in Science fellows report an increased interest in scientific careers, greater confidence in their ability to build things and perform advanced science, and a heightened curiosity about how machines and electronics work.
Earthwatch Girls in Science Fellow

YOUR SUPPORT MATTERS

Earthwatch depends on donations—above and beyond what we raise from volunteers who participate on our expeditions—in order to deliver our global conservation mission. In fact, volunteer contributions provide only half of the total resources Earthwatch needs to sustain over 40 field research expeditions, a wide variety of educational programs, corporate sustainability trainings, and more each year.

Donate