The Reef Renewal Foundation Bonaire (RRFB) fellowship program supports early-career researchers conducting high-impact scientific fieldwork that directly advances RRFB’s mission: restoring Bonaire’s coral reefs through innovation, science, and community engagement.
The deadline for applications has been extended to Monday, May 25.
Program Overview
Fellowships fund multi-visit research projects aligned with RRFB’s key science priorities:
-
Coral Health & Ecosystem Resilience
-
Selective Breeding & Assisted Evolution
-
Innovation in Restoration Engineering & Technology
Fellows work independently while collaborating closely with RRFB, which facilitates access to field sites, nurseries, staff expertise, logistics, and infrastructure. RRFB does not provide scientific supervision; applicants must have their own qualified academic supervisor or PI responsible for scientific oversight.
Drs. James & Marjorie Hoy Doctoral Fellowship
The James & Marjorie Hoy Doctoral Fellowship is the first award launched under RRFB’s fellowship program. In 2026, two doctoral fellowships will be awarded, made possible through funding from the Hoy Foundation.
Proposals are evaluated by the RRFB Science Advisory Panel, composed of internal and external scientists, the majority based in Bonaire. This fellowship supports multi-visit doctoral research aligned with RRFB’s core science priorities and designed to directly advance coral restoration practice.
RRFB is now accepting applications for 2 fellowship candidates. Please review the full program details, supporting materials, and application instructions below.
Honoring Drs. James & Marjorie Hoy
Marjorie Ann Hoy was an entomologist and acarologist who worked in biological control and integrated pest management of crop pests. She had received her masters degree in Genetics. She initially used Mendelian principles to develop pesticide resistant predators (mites initially and later other predators like parasitic wasps) to combat entomological crop pests. She expanded her research into insect molecular genetics later (1980’s).
James Benjamin Hoy was an entomologist, biologist and zoologist. He primarily worked in entomology as a research scientist. He researched on the effects of pesticides on soil insects, mosquito control by biological control, cockroach and fire ant control through biological control and many other research projects over the years with the USDA and the US Forest service. He was a political activist who volunteered his time for a variety of projects over the years.
Marjorie and James visited Bonaire and fell in love with the island and its reefs. This fellowship, funded in their memory, celebrates their legacy by supporting research that advances coral restoration and reef resilience.
Funding Structure
Two fellowships will be awarded in the 2026 funding cycle.
Amount Available
- $8,000–10,000 per fellowship.
- In-kind support such as boat time, dive tanks, field supplies, and office desk space, valued at approximately $2,000–3,000 equivalent.
Funds may be used for:
- Travel to/from Bonaire
- Accommodation & living expenses
- Small equipment and supplies
- Lab analysis costs (genotyping, imaging, etc.)
- Data tools or software
Funds may not be used for:
- Permanent equipment over $1,000
- Salaries (except small stipends for research assistants if justified)
- Overhead or institutional indirect costs
Funding Release
- 70% released upon arrival in Bonaire
- 30% released upon submission of final report and publication
Eligibility
PhD students, candidates, doctors, and postdocs are eligible to apply to this fellowship.
At the time of application, applicants must:
- Demonstrate that they have the expertise to conduct the research and secured financial support (stipend or other means) for the duration of their doctoral program.
- Have a qualified academic supervisor or PI responsible for scientific oversight of the project.
- Propose research that aligns clearly with one or more of RRFB’s science priorities.
- People of all nationalities are welcome to apply.
Not eligible:
- Projects unrelated to RRFB’s science priorities
- Individuals without institutional affiliation (for ethical approvals & supervision reasons)
Support from RRFB
RRFB will provide:
- Restoration fieldwork operational guidance and support
- Access to coral nurseries, restoration sites, and monitoring locations
- Access to the RRFB Coral Lab
- Support letters for research permits (if needed)
- Introductions to local partners (STINAPA, other research groups, dive operations)
- Recommendations for housing & logistics
- Opportunities for public engagement
RRFB cannot provide:
- Scientific supervision
- Full-time staff assistance
Deliverables
- Project Work Plan (within 4–6 weeks of award)
- Short Progress Report at the end of each year
- Final Scientific Report including data, methods, and outcomes
- Presentation at the RRFB “Science in Action: RRFB Restoration Forum”. Virtual participation accepted
- At least one peer-reviewed publication and conference presentation or abstract
- Sharing of data or tools that can be integrated into RRFB’s work
Optional but encouraged:
- Training for RRFB staff or volunteers
- Community outreach (talks, workshops, media), organized and facilitated by RRFB
Duration & Timeline
The fellowship can span 12–36 months, allowing multiple short visits due to Bonaire visa rules (max 3 or 6 months per year depending on nationality). Fellows will plan visits that align with project-specific requirements.
Proposal Selection Criteria
Applications are evaluated by the RRFB Science Advisory Committee using a weighted scoring system:
A. Scientific Merit (30%)
- Clear research questions
- Strong and realistic methodology
- Contribution to knowledge on coral restoration
B. Alignment with RRFB Priorities (25%)
- Direct relevance to coral resilience, selective breeding/genetics, engineering/technology innovation
C. Feasibility & Logistics (15%)
- Appropriate use of Bonaire as a field site
- Realistic timeline and consideration of weather seasons and spawning cycles
D. Applicant Qualifications (15%)
- Research and field work experience, skills, diving certifications
- Institutional affiliation and supervisor support
E. Expected Impact (15%)
- Added value to RRFB’s restoration program
- Potential for scientific publication & Community engagement
- Innovation and significance of the approach
Application Process
Prospective applicants should read this page carefully and review all supplemental materials before preparing their submissions. A complete information sheet and application form are available in the folder linked below.
To apply, please submit the following materials by email tofellowship@reefrenewalbonaire.org by April 30 May 25:
-
Application Form
-
Applicant CV
-
Letter of Support from supervisor or PI
-
Dive certification (if applicable)
All application materials should be submitted according to the instructions provided. Incomplete submissions may not be considered.
