Rep. Moakley Secures $200,000 for Marine Biological Laboratory STEM Education Programs in Fair Share Supplemental Budget

BOSTON, MA — Representative Thomas Moakley of Falmouth successfully secured an amendment providing $200,000 for the Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL) in Woods Hole as part of H.5264, the FY26 supplemental budget known as the “Fair Share” amendment.The funding supports research and education at the MBL and aligns with the institution’s FY26 budget request for $200,000 to sustain STEM education and skills training opportunities for Massachusetts students. The MBL will maintain its High School Science Discovery Program, providing tuition, room, and board for approximately 80–100 students from public schools across the region.

The investment will enable the MBL to maintain its highly regarded, hands-on science courses for high school and undergraduate students across the Commonwealth—particularly those who may not otherwise have access to advanced scientific training.

“At a time when support for scientific funding is critical, I am proud to have secured research capacity for a world-class organization right here in my hometown,” said Representative Moakley. “I am grateful for my colleagues in the State House, who also recognize the importance of supporting our scientific community in the Commonwealth, particularly amid federal cuts and uncertainty.” Students work directly with the MBL’s expert faculty and gain hands on experience using advanced laboratory equipment and research organisms. In 2025, 99% of participating students reported that the program met their expectations and that they would recommend it to peers.

“This funding helps ensure that more Massachusetts students have access to transformative, hands-on scientific training at the MBL,” said Nipam H. Patel, Director of the Marine Biological Laboratory. “By giving high school students the opportunity to work alongside scientists and participate in the kind of advanced research experiences that define the MBL, we’re helping them see themselves as future scientists. One of the most rewarding things we hear from participants is that their time at the MBL inspired them to pursue science in college and beyond,” said Patel. 

Additionally, the funding will support the MBL’s Semester in Biological Discovery and Semester in Environmental Science programs by covering tuition for undergraduate students from Massachusetts state universities, including the UMass system. These immersive programs allow students to study alongside peers from across the country while conducting research-based coursework.

The inclusion of this funding in H.5264 reflects the Legislature’s ongoing commitment to equitable access to education, workforce development, and long-term economic growth across Massachusetts.