The Marine Biological Association (MBA) is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the Molly Spooner Studentship, a unique opportunity that enables undergraduate university students to experience hands-on marine biological research at the MBA.
The Studentship honours the internationally recognised legacy of marine biologists Molly and Malcolm Spooner. Running over a period of six to eight weeks during the summer months, the Studentship provides a chance for students to work alongside world-leading researchers, contributing to active projects within the MBA’s vibrant scientific community.
The Studentship allows participants to develop and refine their research skills while gaining valuable experience in a professional marine science environment. Students will have access to the MBA’s state-of-the-art research facilities, including the renowned research aquarium and long-term marine biodiversity datasets, as well as the diverse coastal ecosystems of Plymouth Sound, from rocky shores to kelp forests.
Students will have the opportunity to use the MBA’s cutting-edge facilities, including the Research Aquarium. (c. Marine Biological Association)
Projects are co-developed with MBA Research Fellows, ensuring that each student’s work contributes meaningfully to the Association’s world-class research in areas such as coastal ecology, ocean biology, and the marine microbiome. Information on current research areas and available supervisors can be found on the MBA’s website.
The award offers funding of up to £520 per week for six weeks or £390 per week for eight weeks, with visa costs covered where necessary. The scheme is open to Student Members of the Marine Biological Association. Anyone facing barriers to membership is encouraged to contact the MBA’s membership team for guidance.
The Studentship supports the MBA’s mission to advance global marine biology and inspire the next generation of ocean scientists. The Association is strongly committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion and welcomes applications from all individuals who share a passion for the marine environment.
Applications are now open and close at 12:00 midday (BST) on Thursday 15 January 2026. Successful applicants will be notified in mid-February. The funded research project must take place within 2026.
Molly and Malcolm Spooner on honeymoon. (c. The Spooner Family)
Who was Molly Spooner?
Dr Mary Florence “Molly” Spooner trained at Newnham College, Cambridge, and completed her PhD research at the MBA in 1938, studying micro-organisms in the sea. Her groundbreaking work coined the term meiobenthos (the tiny animals that live on or within the seabed sediments) to fill the gap between the already-used categories of microbenthos and macrobenthos, thereby improving scientists’ ability to describe and study marine life by size class. The term is still used today. Dr Spooner’s later research following the Torrey Canyon oil spill in 1967 fundamentally changed how marine pollution is understood and managed.
Awarded an MBE in 1977 for her contributions to environmental science, Dr Spooner generously bequeathed a sum to the MBA to encourage enterprising students to experience marine biological research each year. Her vision continues to inspire future generations of marine scientists through this annual Studentship.
Applications open: 1 November 2025
Deadline: 12:00 midday (BST), 15 January 2026
Contact: membership@mba.ac.uk
For more information and to apply, click here.
