Support a Student Researcher

Student-led research plays a vital role in advancing local knowledge and conservation. Yet for many aspiring scientists, the costs of fieldwork, training, and supplies can make these opportunities feel out of reach.

Isla Mar's Seed Fund seeks to fill that gap. This mini grant provides essential start-up support of $2,000 to qualified undergraduate and graduate students pursuing "island science", fields such as marine biology, oceanography, island conservation, wildlife biology, zoology, and environmental science.

Each award helps a student launch a research project, attend a workshop, or cover critical expenses not typically supported by other funding sources. It bridges the financial gap so they can focus on what matters most: learning, discovery, and making a difference.

This year, we aim to expand the Seed Fund to support two student researchers, doubling the impact and helping shape the future of Puerto Rican science and conservation

Awardees have used the Seed Fund to:

Purchase temperature data loggers for sea turtle nest.
Perform genetic analysis to inform population structure of marine tunicates.
Purchase materials for phytoremediation experiment.
Support sampling trips to bioluminescent bays for water collection.

Want to see the impact of the Seed Fund in action? Explore stories from past recipients on our blog!

Give today and help a young scientist grow.

Seed Fund: 2026 Cohort

Help Early Scientists in Puerto Rico Grow!