
The Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL) in Woods Hole, MA, is a renowned research institution affiliated with the University of Chicago, offering unique opportunities in marine biology and environmental sciences. It provides intensive, discovery-driven learning with access to a global scientific community and significant funding opportunities.
The Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL), founded in 1888, is a private, non-profit institution dedicated to scientific discovery and education in the biological and environmental sciences. Affiliated with the University of Chicago since 2013, the MBL occupies a unique position in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, where two distinct ocean bodies meet, providing unmatched access to marine biodiversity. Over 60 Nobel laureates have been associated with the institution throughout its 135-year history.
Life at the MBL is immersive and community-centered. During the summer, hundreds of scientists and students live and work on the compact waterfront campus, fostering intense intellectual exchange across disciplines and career stages. Evening lectures, seminar series, and informal gatherings create a collegial atmosphere unlike a traditional university. Kayaking, sailing, and exploring the Cape Cod landscape offer recreational respite.
Many participants receive fellowship funding (e.g., Grass Fellowships) that covers lab space, animals, equipment, housing, meals, and travel. The MBL Discovery Fund provides additional tuition and supply support.
The MBL is a recognized non-profit research institution affiliated with the University of Chicago, a fully accredited research university. Graduate-level coursework may carry University of Chicago credit.
International students primarily enter on the F-1 visa, which requires enrolment at a SEVP-certified institution. Before the visa interview the school issues a Form I-20 — a certificate of eligibility — for which a Designated School Official must verify documented funds covering tuition, living expenses and travel for the first year, plus a reliable source for subsequent years. The financial evidence must be specific and from an identified source.
F-1 students may work on campus up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session and full-time during official breaks, with no separate authorization needed. Off-campus work is generally not permitted in the first academic year. After one academic year in good standing, students may use Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for paid work that is an integral part of the curriculum, authorized by the school; other off-campus work requires an approved Employment Authorization Document from USCIS.
After completing a degree, F-1 students may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) — up to 12 months of work authorization in a related field — by filing Form I-765 and receiving an EAD before starting work. Graduates of a degree on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List may apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, for up to 36 months total. The extension requires an E-Verify employer and a qualifying STEM degree earned within the previous ten years.
Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.

The Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL) offers advanced research training courses designed to develop a dynamic scientific and academic workforce. These courses attract approximately 500 trainees annually from around 300 institutions and 60 countries. Participants engage directly with distinguished faculty from across the globe, enabling them to conduct novel experiments, test new hypotheses, and foster collaborative networks. MBL emphasizes that financial constraints should not hinder scientific pursuits, with most courses offering substantial financial aid, including need-based scholarships. Applicants are encouraged to apply regardless of their financial situation, as opportunities to apply for aid to cover tuition, room, and board will be available upon acceptance.

The Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL) offers Advanced Research Training Courses (ARTC) designed to transform students into accomplished scientists. These transformative courses provide access to state-of-the-art equipment and focus on fundamental scientific principles. Participants work directly with world-class faculty on novel experiments, fostering a global network of collaboration and pushing the boundaries of current knowledge. The ARTC program attracts over 500 graduate students and postdoctoral researchers annually from more than 300 institutions worldwide, covering a wide range of biological sciences including development, cell physiology, microbiology, neuroscience, and microscopy.

The Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL) offers a variety of internship opportunities designed to provide intensive, hands-on research experience for undergraduate students. These programs are typically summer-based and focus on different areas of biological and environmental science, including marine biology, ecology, and oceanography. Interns work closely with leading scientists on individual research projects, contributing to ongoing studies and developing their scientific skills in a collaborative research environment. While specific program details may vary, most internships are 10-12 weeks long and involve fieldwork, laboratory work, data analysis, and presentation of research findings. The MBL is committed to fostering the next generation of scientists by offering a stimulating and supportive atmosphere for learning and discovery. The programs are often funded, aiming to remove financial barriers for participants. Applications for these competitive internships open in mid-December for the following year. Prospective interns are encouraged to research the specific programs that align with their interests and academic background. For inquiries, students can contact the designated program coordinator for further information.

The Jeff Metcalf Summer Undergraduate Research Fellows (SURF) program offers University of Chicago students a unique opportunity to engage in world-class scientific research at the Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL). This 10-week summer experience is designed for first, second, and third-year undergraduates to explore scientific fields beyond their coursework and participate in comprehensive discovery research. The program aims to foster student-faculty relationships, build academic and professional credentials, and help students clarify their career aspirations.

The Logan Science Journalism Program offers a unique opportunity for science journalists, writers, editors, and broadcast journalists to step away from daily deadlines and immerse themselves in fundamental biomedical or environmental research. Founded in 1986, this program is hosted at the Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL) in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, a leading center for scientific discovery. Participants will engage in hands-on research training, choosing between two intensive introductory courses: one focused on biomedical research and the other on environmental research. This immersive experience aims to provide journalists with a deeper understanding of scientific processes.

Open to international (non-U.S. citizen, non-permanent-resident) high school students applying for first-year undergraduate admission to Duke University. Candidates must demonstrate financial need through Duke's need-based aid process, show interdisciplinary academic curiosity, and have a record of community engagement. There is no separate scholarship form; international applicants who indicate they are applying for financial aid are automatically considered for the Karsh award.
Open to high school seniors, both domestic (U.S.) and international, applying for first-year undergraduate admission to the University of Miami through Early Decision I or Early Action. Applicants are automatically considered with no separate scholarship form; they must submit all first-year admission requirements and demonstrate strong academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement. Semi-finalists complete a Zoom interview.
Open to high-achieving US high school seniors from low-income backgrounds who are US citizens, permanent residents, or students studying in the US regardless of citizenship. Competitive applicants typically earn mostly A's in challenging courses, rank in the top 5-10% of their class, and have strong standardised test results (SAT/PSAT above 1310 or ACT above 28), though each application is read in context. Applicants must demonstrate strong writing, intellectual curiosity and determination through essays and recommendations. Matched students must attend a partner college as a binding-early-decision commitment.
Open to early-career scientists and engineers of all nationalities who hold a PhD awarded within the last three years at the time of application, or who will complete the PhD before the fellowship start date. Research interests must align with Argonne's mission areas. U.S. citizenship is required for national-security-related projects (Detection of Imaging Signatures).
Open to candidates of any nationality (priority to those of Lebanese descent) who have received an offer of admission to the Harvard MBA programme and have a strong academic background.
Open to citizens of any country who earned their first/bachelor's degree within the last ~7 years (or will by the Stanford start) and who apply for and gain admission to a full-time Stanford graduate program. Selection seeks independence of thought, purposeful leadership, and a civic mindset.
The Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL) is a private, non-profit institution founded in 1888, dedicated to scientific discovery and education in the biological and environmental sciences. It is affiliated with the University of Chicago and is located in Woods Hole, Massachusetts.
The MBL is situated in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, a seaside community where two distinct ocean bodies meet. This unique geographical position provides exceptional access to a diverse range of marine life, ideal for research and study.
Program and course fees vary widely, but summer research courses typically range from $8,000 to $18,000 EUR-equivalent. This usually covers tuition, laboratory access, and some housing support.
Yes, many participants receive fellowship funding, such as the Grass Foundation Fellowships, which often covers lab space, animals, equipment, housing, meals, and travel. The MBL Discovery Fund also provides additional tuition and supply support.
For non-native English speakers, a TOEFL score of 80+ iBT is recommended. An IELTS score of 6.5 is also recommended.
Requirements differ by program, but typically include a program-specific online application, a research statement detailing proposed research and career goals, 2-3 letters of recommendation, and a CV/resume detailing research experience and academic background.