Freshwater Opportunities Newsletter (September 20-October 03, 2026)

A bi-weekly newsletter about employment, funding, and learning opportunities shared by members of our Freshwater Sciences community. New opportunities are marked with an asterisk (*). If you would like to add an opportunity to an upcoming newsletter or be added to our mailing list, please message Aaron Thiel (thiela@uwm.edu).


EMPLOYMENT

*Communications Coordinator (Remote)
Lakeshore Natural Resource Partnership (LNRP)

Summary: The Communications Coordinator, in collaboration with the entire staff team, develops and implements communication materials to emphasize the mission of Lakeshore Natural Resource Partnership (LNRP) as well as the work of partners within the organization’s administrative umbrella. The ideal candidate is a skilled writer and graphic designer who can develop and oversee media materials and communicate stories that foster community, as well as stakeholder engagement and support. This position is responsible for ensuring effective marketing and communications strategies reach a diverse audience while inspiring appreciation for natural resources and growing the organization’s conservation impact throughout Wisconsin’s Lakeshore region.
Application Deadline: September 18, 2026
More Information: Click HERE to learn more and apply.

*Development and Administrative Assistant (Madison, WI)
River Alliance of Wisconsin (RAW), Midwest Environmental Advocates (MEA)

Summary: The River Alliance of Wisconsin (RAW) and Midwest Environmental Advocates (MEA) are jointly seeking a Development and Administrative Assistant. The individual will be a part-time, hourly employee of both organizations. Hours per week between the two organizations are expected to range from 20-24 hours. River Alliance of Wisconsin is a statewide nonprofit organization that has empowered people to protect and restore their waters for almost 30 years. Midwest Environmental Advocates is a nonprofit environmental law center that combines the power of law with the resolve of communities facing environmental injustice to secure and protect the rights of all people to healthy water, land and air. This is a unique opportunity for a talented development and administrative professional to support the work of both our organizations.
Application Deadline: September 29, 2026
More Information: Click HERE to learn more and apply.

Bonanza Creek Long Term Ecological Research Program (LTER) Temporary Research Technician (Summer 2027)
University of Alaska, Institute of Arctic Biology

Summary: The Institute of Arctic Biology is on the lookout for enthusiastic seasonal research technicians to join our team. We need your help in collecting valuable field data for the Bonanza Creek Long Term Ecological Research Program (BNZ LTER). If you’re passionate about ecological research and ready for a hands-on experience in the beautiful Arctic environment, we invite you to be part of our motivated team. Let’s explore and contribute to the fascinating world of long-term ecological research together.
Application Deadline: June 30, 2027
More Information: Click HERE to learn more and apply.

Postdoctoral Scholar Program (Woods Hole, MA)
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution

Summary: We invite applications for eighteen-month Postdoctoral Scholarships that are designed to extend the education and training of the applicants and to advance their research careers. WHOI is the largest private, non profit oceanographic institution in the world. Our mission is to advance understanding of the ocean and its interaction with the Earth system, and to communicate this understanding for the benefit of society. Awards are granted to recent doctorates in oceanography, chemistry, engineering, geology, geophysics, mathematics, meteorology, physics, biology, economics, marine policy, and any field that may contribute to WHOI’s core mission. Applications from all fields of ocean sciences and engineering are welcome.
Application Deadline: October 15, 2026
More Information: Click HERE to learn more and apply.

NRC Research Associateship Programs
National Academies of Sciences, Engineering & Medicine

Summary: The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine’s Office of Fellowships has conducted the NRC Research Associateship Programs in cooperation with sponsoring federal laboratories and other research organizations since 1954. NRC Research Associateships are awarded to exceptionally talented postdoctoral and senior scientists and engineers through a rigorous selection process. These selected individuals are granted tenure as guest researchers at participating laboratories, highlighting their outstanding contributions and potential in their respective fields.
Application Deadline: November 1, 2026
More Information: Click HERE to learn more and apply.

Environmental Program Manager (Lansing, MI)
Michigan Saves

Summary: The environmental program manager is responsible for the execution and ongoing management of Michigan Saves’ environmental programs, with primary responsibility for the Lead Poisoning Prevention Fund and the Septic Replacement Loan Program. This role oversees program planning, program management, monitoring, evaluation, reporting, partner engagement, and communications in collaboration with internal teams. The environmental program manager works with funders, contractors, government entities, financial partners, and a matrixed internal team to ensure programs are accessible, effectively administered, and aligned with Michigan Saves’ mission.
Application Deadline: Position is open until filled.
More Information: Click HERE to learn more and apply.

Environmental Finance Center Specialist (Chicago, IL)
The Delta Institute

Summary: The EFC Specialist will assist with the overall implementation and coordination for Delta’s USEPA Region 5 Regional Water Infrastructure Environmental Finance Center (Delta EFC). The position will provide technical, analytical, administrative, communications, and strategic support. Specifically, the EFC Specialist will be assigned direct technical assistance tasks based on discrete scopes of work with defined roles, responsibilities, and deliverables. The technical assistance will cover all aspects of the Delta EFC including drinking water, clean water, stormwater, and green infrastructure. The Specialist will directly manage implementation of technical assistance and coordination with community partners with support from the EFC Lead and other staff. The Specialist will coordinate with functional hive staff to ensure the delivery of high-quality, on-time, and on-budget work scopes.
Application Deadline: Position is open until filled.
More Information: Click HERE to learn more and apply.

Biological and Invasive Species Technician (Alamo, NV)
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service

Summary: The Research Associate Program at GBI, in cooperation with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service at Pahranagat National Wildlife Refuge, is recruiting one (1) Biological and Invasive Species Technician to participate in implementing the refuge’s integrated pest management plan and assisting with other refuge management goals. The selected will work independently and with others to accomplish refuge work plans to manage native habitats and wildlife to achieve the purpose of the refuge which is to provide critical wetland habitat for migratory birds, with special emphasis on waterfowl. Work tasks may also include working to achieve the refuge goals of Moapa Valley NWR, including enhancing habitat for the endangered Moapa dace.
Application Deadline: Position is open until filled.
More Information: Click HERE to learn more and apply.

Laboratory & Research Manager (Green Bay, WI)
NEW Water

Summary: At NEW Water, our purpose goes beyond daily operations—we are dedicated to being a model of water quality protection and environmental sustainability. As the Laboratory and Research Manager, you will play a central role in fulfilling this vital mission. By leading our laboratory operations, ensuring rigorous environmental compliance, and delivering accurate data, your work directly protects local water resources, supports public health, and serves our region.
Application Deadline: Position is open until filled.
More Information: Click HERE to learn more and apply.

Project Manager (Madison, WI)
Wisconsin Wetlands Association

Summary: The Project Manager will help WWA launch and sustain a new peatlands conservation project located in Wisconsin’s Lake Michigan Basin (LMB) and will collaborate with WWA’s program staff and leadership team to support the growth of WWA’s wetland science programming. The project is a collaboration between WWA, The Nature Conservancy Wisconsin, and The Pew Charitable Trusts focused on helping LMB communities protect and rewet peatlands for carbon sequestration, flood mitigation, and water quality improvement. The project is designed to be carried out in 3 phases over the course of 5 years. This new position was created with support from a 1-year grant, and we are confident in our ability to secure sustained funding.
Application Deadline: Position is open until filled.
More Information: Click HERE to learn more and apply.

RF Fisheries Technicians (Oswego, NY)
State University of New York

Summary: The Research Foundation (RF) at the State University of New York at Oswego invites applications for full-time RF Fisheries Technicians (n = 2) to join our collaborative research team. Technicians will serve critical roles within a multi-partner research team studying how to remediate spawning habitats to improve reproductive success of native fishes (e.g. Cisco, Lake Whitefish, Lake Trout, Walleye). These full-time Field Technician Research Foundation positions are to be based at the USGS Lake Ontario Biological Station, located in the Port of Oswego a few miles from the SUNY Oswego Campus. This USGS station operates in close partnership with the SUNY Oswego faculty and aquatic conservation labs as well as the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and The Nature Conservancy. This collaborative environment provides unique opportunities for impactful research and professional growth. The roles will primarily involve supporting aquatic biologists in field operations across diverse and critical ecosystems, including Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, and tributaries to the St. Lawrence River.
Application Deadline: Positions are open until filled.
More Information: Click HERE to learn more and apply.


INTERNSHIPS & STUDENT RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES

*Limnology and Oceanography Research Exchange and Mentoring Experience (LOREX ME) Program
Association for the Sciences of Limnology and Oceanography (ASLO)

Summary: The LOREX ME award provides a competitive paid research exchange opportunity for selected graduate and undergraduate students. Graduate students will lead the development of a competitive proposal to work with a participating PI at one of seven research institutions in four countries. Undergraduate students interested in the aquatic sciences will identify a research area and host site of interest to conduct original, hands-on research in a supportive setting with their near-peer graduate student mentor. Professional development and mentoring training will occur through webinars, web resources, and in-person workshops at ASLO-sponsored conferences. The program can support up to 8 graduate students and 8 undergraduate students (US citizens or permanent residents studying in a US institute) per year to participate.
Application Deadline: September 30, 2026 (Graduate Students); October 30, 2026 (Undergraduate Students)
More Information: Click HERE to learn more and apply.

Public Policy Intern (Chicago, IL)
Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago

Summary: The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District is seeking an intern for the Board of Commissioners Office. The internship will involve collaborating with stakeholders, assisting with event planning, conducting policy research, developing content, coordinating projects, and supporting the daily operations of a Commissioner’s Office. Interns will have the opportunity to apply their communication skills and creativity to advance policy initiatives. They will work alongside a team to engage constituents through various channels, including communications, meetings, and events.
Application Deadline: Position is open until filled.
More Information: Click HERE to learn more and apply.

Outreach and Engagement Intern (Chicago, IL)
Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago

Summary: The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District is seeking an intern to support the Board of Commissioners Offices. This internship offers the opportunity to develop skills in wastewater management as well as environmental equity and justice initiatives.
Application Deadline: Position is open until filled.
More Information: Click HERE to learn more and apply.


SCHOLARSHIPS & FELLOWSHIPS

Fulbright U.S. Student Program
Institute of International Education

Summary: The Fulbright U.S. Student Program expands perspectives through academic and professional advancement and cross-cultural dialogue. Fulbright finds solutions to complex global issues and creates connections in a changing world. In partnership with more than 140 countries worldwide, the Fulbright U.S. Student Program offers unparalleled opportunities to advance knowledge and innovation across all academic disciplines. Awards are available to passionate and accomplished graduating college seniors, graduate students, and young professionals from all backgrounds. Program participants pursue graduate study, conduct research, or teach English abroad.
Application Deadline: October 6, 2026 (2027-2028 Award Cycle)
More Information: Click HERE to learn more and apply.

*Margaret A. Davidson Graduate Fellowship
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Estuarine Research Reserves

Summary: This is an exciting two-year fellowship program that provides the opportunity for graduate students to conduct collaborative research at one of the 30 national estuarine research reserves. Through a research project, fellows address a key reserve management need to help scientists and communities understand coastal challenges that may influence future policy and management strategies. The research reserves represent the apex of estuary science. At these coastal sites, fieldwork, research, and community engagement come together to create the scientific advances that change our communities and our world.
Application Deadline: Late 2026
More Information: Click HERE to learn more and apply.


COURSES & TRAININGS

Sustainability & Resilience Ambassador Program
UWM Office of Sustainability

Summary: The Sustainability & Resilience Ambassador program empowers students, faculty, and staff at UW Milwaukee to engage in change-making on campus by deploying a sustainability mindset. Participants take part in a series of three workshops, and then can choose to stay involved in Action Teams. This professional development opportunity combines learning sustainability frameworks, building a stronger connection to the UWM community, and applying a sustainability mindset to solving challenges big and small.
Registration Deadline: Priority registration for Fall 2026 Cohort is September 25, 2026 at 5 PM.
More Information: Click HERE to learn more and register.

Mexico Atmospheric Science: Air Pollution & Ancient Cultures
UWM Study Abroad, UWM School of Freshwater Sciences

When: UWinteriM 2027 (January 4-20, 2027)
Summary: In the 15th offering of this long-running course, students travel to five remarkable locations in southern Mexico, exploring extraordinary archaeological sites, world-class museums, and leading universities along the way. Throughout these travels, students study the effects of acid rain on cultural heritage sites. Ancient structures, including pyramids and their once-colorful stucco surfaces, are highly vulnerable to environmental damage. In many Latin American countries, preservation efforts to combat corrosion from air pollution are still developing. Students examine firsthand the connections between meteorology, air quality, and the preservation of cultural heritage. Collaborative activities with Mexican university students deepen both the academic value and the overall experience of the course.
Registration Deadline: October 1, 2026
More Information: Click HERE to learn more and register.


UPCOMING EVENTS

Architecture, Engineering & Conservation Sciences Internship & Career Fair
UWM Center for Student Experience & Talent (SET)

When: September 29, 2026 | 1:00-4:00 PM
Where: UWM Student Union | Wisconsin Room
Summary: This is a great way to explore career options, build confidence talking with employers, and make connections that can lead to future internships and opportunities. Registration is encouraged; however, walk-ins are welcome!
More Information: Click HERE to learn more and register.

All Majors Career Conference
UWM Center for Student Experience & Talent (SET)

When: September 30, 2026 | 1:00-4:00 PM
Where: UWM Student Union | Wisconsin Room
Summary: This is a great way to explore career options, build confidence talking with employers, and make connections that can lead to future internships and opportunities. Registration is encouraged; however, walk-ins are welcome!
More Information: Click HERE to learn more and register.

*Student Research Symposium
Riveredge Nature Center

When: November 14, 2026 | 8:00AM-4:00PM
Where: Riveredge Nature Center | 4458 County HWY Y, Saukville, WI 53080
Summary: We invite college students to submit an abstract of a current or recent year’s research project to present in oral or poster form at our Student Research Symposium. Submissions are welcome in the categories of biology, environmental science, chemistry, geology, and other sciences. The abstract submission deadline is October 8th! There will be cash prizes up to $300 awarded for the best oral and poster presentations. Plus, all presenters will receive a FREE Riveredge Membership just for participating!
More Information: Click HERE to learn more and register.

*Wetland Science Conference
Wisconsin Wetlands Association

When: February 23-25, 2027
Where: Osthoff Resort | Elkhart Lake, WI
Summary: The annual Wetland Science Conference is a program of Wisconsin Wetlands Association. The conference runs for 3 days and includes keynote addresses, topical oral sessions, a poster session, workshops, working groups, roundtable discussions, evening networking events, and field trips to area wetlands.
More Information: Click HERE to learn more and register.