# Keller BLOOM Program

Free five-day residential ocean-science research immersion at Bigelow Laboratory in East Boothbay, Maine: 16 Maine high school juniors run a research cruise and lab investigations alongside professional oceanographers.

## Key facts

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Organization | Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences |
| Category | stem |
| Cost | Free |
| Deadline | Rolling / check official site |
| Eligibility | Grade 11 |
| Format | In person |
| Location | East Boothbay, ME |
| Apply | https://www.bigelow.org/education/bloom.html |

## About this program

# Keller BLOOM Program

Keller BLOOM (Bigelow Laboratory Orders Of Magnitude) is a week-long ocean sciences immersion at Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences, a leading independent oceanographic research institute in East Boothbay, Maine. Founded by Bigelow scientist Maureen Keller, the program selects 16 Maine high school juniors each May to live on campus and work through a complete research arc - from field sampling to data analysis to a final public presentation - using the laboratory's professional equipment.

## What You'll Do

- Conduct a research cruise on the Sheepscot River estuary, learning oceanographic sampling methods
- Spend three days in Bigelow's labs investigating phytoplankton, zooplankton, pigments, nutrients, bacteria, and marine viruses alongside senior research scientists
- Attend discussions on scientific ethics and a Marine Science Career Night
- Present your team's research findings to families and scientists on the final day

## Who Should Apply

Maine high school juniors - public, private, or home-schooled - who are curious about ocean or environmental science. No previous research experience is required and there is no cost: room and board are fully provided. Selection is based on two essays and two recommendation letters. The 2026 program ran May 17-22 with applications due April 10; the next cycle typically opens in winter.

## Outcomes

BLOOM students get a realistic, hands-on introduction to oceanographic research and direct mentorship from working scientists at a world-class institute - experience that regularly leads participants toward marine science majors and Bigelow's college-level programs.

## Frequently asked questions

### How much does Keller BLOOM Program cost?

Keller BLOOM Program is completely free — there is no participation fee. Costs like travel or optional materials may still apply; check the official site for details.

### Who is eligible for Keller BLOOM Program?

Keller BLOOM Program is open to high school juniors. Some programs have additional requirements (GPA, coursework, essays, or recommendations) — the full criteria are on the official site.

### Is Keller BLOOM Program online or in person?

Keller BLOOM Program is an in-person program based in East Boothbay, ME.

### How do I apply to Keller BLOOM Program?

Apply directly through Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences's official website. ExtracurricularHub links to the official application — we list and verify programs but don't process applications.

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Last updated: 2026-07-28.
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