Malacological Research Grants

AIM

To assist outstanding graduate students and others in undertaking research in malacology.

ELIGIBILITY

Applicants must be financial members of the MSA prior to submitting their application. This requirement reflects the Council’s commitment to supporting and growing an engaged membership base.

There are no other restrictions on who may apply; however, the committee granting the awards will generally give preference to candidates who are not employed as professional malacologists.

CONDITIONS

Following recent discussions by Council, the MSA has expanded its research grant scheme. Up to $10,000 will be distributed annually, typically through more than one award of up to $5,000.

Grants may be used to support fieldwork and research in various fields focusing on molluscs (e.g., taxonomy, ecology, physiology, population genetics, conservation), as well as consumable or logistical costs associated with malacological projects.

Any project which plans to increase knowledge of Australasian molluscs will be eligible. However, projects of a broad nature in which molluscs are ancillary to the main aim will be given low priority.

Successful applicants will be required to provide a popular article for the Society’s newsletter within 12 months of receiving the grant.

TO APPLY

Candidates are to supply:

  • A research proposal (max. 4 pages) including:
    • Project title
    • Background and significance
    • Aims and objectives
    • Approach and methodology
    • Expected outcomes
    • References
    • Budget (itemised and briefly justified)
  • A curriculum vitae, including current position, educational qualifications, publications, and other relevant information.
  • Names and addresses of two referees to whom the committee may refer.

Forward an electronic copy of the application to: Priscila Salloum (psal591@aucklanduni.ac.nz).

CLOSING DATE: 30th June every year (not running in MSA conference years).

FURTHER INFORMATION

Between 1981 and 1996, the Keith Sutherland Award funded over 40 molluscan research projects undertaken by both amateurs and research students. More than 50 publications in respected international scientific journals were published from these grants, as were a number of books.

Initially funded solely by the Australian Museum, in 1993, the Malacological Society of Australasia became a co-sponsor of the award. Regretfully, in 1996 the Australian Museum decided to discontinue its support for the award.