SEFSC Bluefin Tuna Research Program

The NOAA Southeast Fisheries Science Center (SEFSC) is soliciting cooperative‑agreement proposals to advance science‑based management of Atlantic bluefin tuna. Up to five projects will be funded, each addressing one of several research priorities such as population genomics, DNA sampling of recreational catches, spawning‑area studies, large‑scale tagging, novel fishery‑independent abundance estimation methods, or integrated oceanographic modeling. Awards range from $25,000 to $300,000 and may be for a single year (up to 18 months) or multi‑year (up to four years). Applicants must be U.S. higher‑education institutions, nonprofits, commercial entities, individuals, or state/local/tribal governments, and must partner with a NMFS scientist. All proposals are submitted via Grants.gov and must include a data‑management plan, budget justification, and required federal forms. • Funding: approx. $600 k total, ~5 awards • Eligible entities: universities, nonprofits, private firms, individuals, state/local/tribal governments • Required partnership: written agreement with NMFS SEFSC director/designee • Deliverables: scientific data, reports, and data sharing per NMFS standards • Timeline: application due 12/31/2026; award period up to 4 years