Gulf Scholars Program at Texas Southern University

Program Objectives

The Gulf Scholars Program aims to develop the next generation of leaders in environmental science and Gulf Coast research. Our mission is to provide undergraduate and graduate students with transformative research experiences, mentorship, and professional development opportunities that address critical environmental challenges facing the Gulf region. Through collaborative research initiatives, community engagement, and interdisciplinary training, we empower scholars to become stewards of coastal ecosystems and advocates for sustainable solutions

Our History

The GSP is committed to the goal of building a more just, equitable, sustainable and resilient Gulf of America Region. Funded by the Gulf Research Program, this vision stems from the effort to recover from the 2010 Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill and prepare for additional social, economic, environmental, and climate stressors occurring throughout the region. The Gulf Research Program is funded by the largest environmental damage settlement in U.S. history - a $20.8 billion settlement reached to attempt to restore the damages done by the April 20, 2010 Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill. The spill killed 11 people, injured 17 and spewed 3.19 million barrels (almost 134 million gallons) of oil across the Gulf of America.

Apply to the Program

We welcome applications from motivated undergraduate and graduate students interested in Gulf Coast environmental research. Our program offers competitive stipends, research support, and mentorship opportunities. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with priority deadlines in the fall and spring semesters.

Eligibility Requirements

Currently enrolled, in good academic and disciplinary standing,at Texas Southern University
Minimum 3.0 GPA
Classification of Sophomore or Junior (at least 30 completer credit hours)
Demonstrated interest in issues affecting the Gulf Coast region, such as: environmental resilience, coastal sustainability, energy and climate, public health, policy and community development

Application Materials

Completed application form
Current unofficial transcript
Personal statement ( ≤ 500 words) describing your interest in Gulf-region issues, career goals, and how participation will contribute to community impact
Name of one faculty member who can provide a letter of recommendation
Optional: Resume/CV highlighting relevant coursework, research experience, and extracurricular activities

Research Projects

Our scholars engage in cutting-edge research addressing critical environmental challenges in the Gulf Coast region. Projects span multiple disciplines including marine biology, environmental chemistry, coastal ecology, and public health.

Coastal Restoration

Investigating wetland restoration techniques and their impact on ecosystem resilience in the Gulf Coast.

Water Quality Monitoring

Assessing pollutant levels and water quality indicators across coastal waterways and estuaries.

Marine Biodiversity

Studying species diversity and ecosystem health in Gulf of Mexico marine environments.

Climate Change Impacts

Analyzing effects of climate change on coastal communities and natural systems.

Environmental Justice

Examining environmental health disparities in underserved coastal communities.

Disaster Preparedness

Developing strategies for coastal community resilience and disaster response.

Upcoming Events

Join us for workshops, seminars, field trips, and networking events designed to enhance your research skills and connect you with leaders in environmental science and Gulf Coast research.

MAR 26

2026 Annual Gulf Scholars Conference

"Our Gulf, Our Future: Navigating the Changing Tides" Learn More

University of Florida, Gainsville, FL

APR 09

Program Kickoff

Join us in celebrating the start of our program.

Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs

Our Team

Meet the faculty, researchers, and scholars who make up the Gulf Scholars Program community at Texas Southern University.

Program Leadership

Dr. Oluponmile Olonilua

Program Director

Political Science and Public Administration

Dr. Daniel Vrinceanu

Program Co-Director

Computational Physics

Richelle N. Jones, J.D.

Program Coordinator

Student Services

Current Scholars

James Smith

Graduate Scholar

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Undergraduate Scholar

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