Research, Outreach, and Education
ACES Fellows will complete a 12-15 month research project aligned with their interests and career goals, guided by a Research Mentor at one of the six scientific institutions in Woods Hole—Sea Education Association, Woodwell Climate Research Center, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Marine Biological Laboratory, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or the United States Geological Survey.
While the specific project will vary by Mentor and Fellow, the goal is for Fellows to develop research skills and knowledge that will support their future graduate studies or careers.
In addition to their research, ACES Fellows will collaborate with local K-12 educators in Falmouth Public Schools (FPS), developing science lesson plans and activities that are sustainable, replicable, and adaptable for different grade levels. Fellows will receive training in designing engaging outreach lessons that align with classroom goals and science curriculum standards, transforming their research into interactive, hands-on learning experiences for students.
Enriching Experiences
Throughout the program, ACES Fellows will have unique opportunities to engage in experiential, place-based learning and community-building activities. Fellows will join students from other Woods Hole programs on field trips, such as whale watching in Provincetown, MA and visits to several regional museums.
Additionally, ACES Fellows will participate in exclusive field trips, such as visits to the New England Aquarium, the Wampanoag Powwow, Penikese Island, and Martha’s Vineyard.
Throughout the year-long program, ACES Fellows will participate in activities designed to foster a strong sense of community among the cohort and with other postbaccalaureate programs in Woods Hole.
Professional Development
ACES Fellows will engage in career development activities designed to build skills essential for success in graduate school and/or the workforce. Each Fellow will also create an Individual Development Plan (IDP) to track their growth and progress throughout the program.
Fellows will attend professional conferences such as the Association for the Sciences of Limnology and Oceanography (ASLO) and the American Geophysical Union (AGU)..
At the end of the program, Fellows will present their research and FPS lesson plan/activity at a scientific-style symposium.
Graduate School & Career Readiness
ACES Fellows will embark on one-day trips to graduate school partners for laboratory and facility tours, presentations from potential graduate school faculty and Mentors, and opportunities to talk with staff about applying to graduate school.
ACES Fellows will also visit industry partners to learn from their scientists about career pathways and opportunities in the workforce, such as consulting.
