Emerge fellows will engage with each other to build a scientific and support network, develop skills in science, and collaborate using data from NSF NEON sites. They will be able to take part in the extended network of freshwater scientists as facilitated by the SFS. Fellows will have the opportunity to participate in the SFS Annual Meeting (May/June), as well as in professional development workshops geared to advance skills in data management, dissemination of research, science communication, and skills working in freshwater environments (e.g., river safety through river float trips, excursions, etc.). In addition, fellows will expand on their general knowledge of freshwater ecosystems and associated careers in freshwater science through connections with members of the Steering Committee and collaborators who will increase their exposure to other freshwater science professionals, collaborators, and/or employers. They will also have access to an array of face-to-face and online collaborative opportunities. Fellows will also learn from the other fellows, which includes career stages from undergraduate, graduate student, to early career professionals.

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The program includes: 

• A three-day river float immediately before the SFS Annual Meeting (including costs of travel, equipment, food, camping gear, etc.)

• All SFS Annual Meeting opportunities included in the Instars program

• SFS membership, SFS Annual Meeting registration (including costs of travel, lodging, and some meals at the Annual Meeting)

• Online collaborative projects and community events

• A NEON + R / Data Analysis Workshop (including costs of travel, lodging, and meals)

• A Visual Communication / Graphic Design Workshop (including costs of travel, lodging, and meals)

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Learn more about these activities by visiting our About page and/or viewing our webinar recording.

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Applicants must be able to participate in:

• The SFS Annual Meeting (one full week, typically in May or June)

• Online collaborative projects that require remote meetings at least twice monthly

• Regular electronic communications, at least monthly and sometimes weekly

• Undergraduate participants should also plan to participate in:

  • A three-day river float immediately before the SFS Annual Meeting​

• Graduate and Early Career participants should also plan to participate in:

  • NEON + R / Data Analysis Workshop

  • Visual Communications Workshop

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Application Instructions and Materials Requested:

• Fill out all required fields in the online application, attaching the following:​​

  • ​If applying as an Undergraduate Student​

    • A statement of purpose indicating your interest in freshwater science, short-term/academic goals, and why you would be an ideal candidate for the program (500-word limit)

    • ​A copy of your SFS Annual Meeting presentation abstract (if submitted/planning to submit - not required to apply)

    • A copy of your unofficial academic transcript​

    • CV or résumé (optional)

    • A recommendation (via an online form; not a letter) from your academic advisor or current supervisor ​(please have a commitment from them before submitting your application)

  • If applying as a Graduate Student

    • A personal statement indicating your interest in freshwater science, career goals, and what you expect to gain from the program (750-word limit)

    • A copy of your SFS Annual Meeting presentation abstract (if submitted/planning to submit - not required to apply)

    • A copy of your unofficial academic transcript​

    • CV or résumé 

    • A recommendation (via an online form; not a letter) from your academic advisor or current supervisor ​(please have a commitment from them before submitting your application)

  • If applying as an Early Career Professional

    • A personal statement indicating your interest and what you expect to gain from the program (750-word limit)

    • A statement addressing your philosophy for enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in freshwater science (750-word limit)

    • ​A copy of your SFS Annual Meeting presentation abstract (if submitted/planning to submit - not required to apply)

    • CV or résumé

    • A recommendation (via an online form; not a letter) from your academic advisor or current supervisor ​(please have a commitment from them before submitting your application)

  • If applying as someone who has previously been supported by Instars or Emerge

    • ​In addition to the materials requested for your career stage above, please be prepared to answer a series of statements indicating:

      • a) how the program has already helped move you towards your goals,

      • b) what goals you have for yourself during an additional year in the program, and

      • c) how you plan to contribute to the the Instars/Emerge and freshwater science community.

• ​Please let your references know that they will be receiving an email requesting their recommendation (via an online form; not a letter) upon successful completion and submission of your online application (an email will trigger to them immediately after you hit the submit button).​ Recommendations are due one week after the application deadline. ​​

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If you cannot commit to the monthly participation requirements, please apply for the Instars at the Annual Meeting opportunity instead (for undergraduates or recent graduates).