Research Opportunities
Where Research Meets the Ocean
From the shoreline to the open sea, Texas A&M University at Galveston is advancing research that helps us better understand oceans, marine life and coastal communities. More than 35 research groups are tackling questions with far-reaching implications, while students gain a firsthand look at how discovery happens through classes, fieldwork and hands-on research experiences.
Research at Galveston spans:
- Marine life: From sea turtle conservation to projects at the Sea Life Facility, where students can pursue research questions that align with their interests.
- Coastal ecosystems: Studies exploring salt marsh restoration, mangrove expansion and the impacts of a changing climate.
- Ocean exploration: Undergraduate and graduate students use the $2.5 million research catamaran Trident for hands-on labs in oceanography, marine biology and underwater exploration.
- The future of the blue economy: Research focused on the industries, resources and communities connected to our oceans.
These are just a few of the experiences that give students a closer look at research in action while contributing to discoveries that can shape the future of marine and maritime industries. Consider downloading our giving guide to explore how you can help make opportunities like these possible.
Meet Kyleigh Karl '27
Scholarship support helps students like Kyleigh Karl, a tourism and coastal community development major from Rockport, Texas, turn classroom learning into real-world impact. Through her research at Texas A&M University at Galveston, Kyleigh explored ways to strengthen the campus community, earning second place at the 2025 TAMUG Annual Student Research Symposium.
Read more about how scholarships are making a difference for students like Kyleigh.
Innovation Starts Here
At Texas A&M University at Galveston, research is helping us better understand and protect the oceans and wildlife that surround us. But discovery takes more than curiosity. It takes people who believe in the power of an idea and are willing to help bring it to life. Donors give researchers and students the opportunity to follow their passions, explore new possibilities and create a legacy that can extend far beyond a single gift.
Cheryl Mellenthin is one of those donors. Her passion for protecting marine wildlife has inspired her support of research at Galveston, helping create opportunities to better understand and care for the wildlife that calls our coast home. Her story is a reminder that when you give to something you believe in, your passion can become part of something much larger.
Make Waves With Us
Jason Tieman '97
Chief Development Officer
Anna Hyatt
Director of Corporate & Foundation Engagement
