Request for Proposals for Field Research: Biodiversity within Metropolitan Environments
Earthwatch Institute is an international non-profit organization with the mission to “engage people worldwide in scientific field research and education to promote the understanding and action necessary for a sustainable environment.” Earthwatch is currently seeking proposals from field-based researchers to provide grants to address major issues related to biodiversity within major Metropolitan areas of North America. We are looking to support projects that address specific threats human-wildlife conflicts, invasive species, habitat degradation, and climate change will have on ensuring functional ecosystems within terrestrial or aquatic habitats around urban/suburban/rural gradients. Of particular interest are research programs that will inform solutions and restoration efforts. Earthwatch will only consider proposals for field research that have a strong rationale for requiring involvement of non-specialists (Earthwatch volunteers) in data collection, scientific observation, or a variety of research tasks. Earthwatch volunteers are highly motivated citizens from around the world who are dedicated to improving environmental understanding. A typical project would employ 6 to 12 volunteers each on 4 to 8 teams per fielding season. For this subject we are looking for research that can involve volunteers in short teams (1-3 days) and/or typical Earthwatch teams (1-2 weeks). Projects which would allow school groups to participate are desirable. All volunteers speak English, and projects must be conducted in English. Earthwatch encourages proposals that are interdisciplinary and/or transnational. Preference will be given to projects that directly contribute to environmental or social change on the ground and that have a strong community and/or educational component. Professionals from any nationality are eligible to apply. Concept Notes and Proposals Concept Notes for projects starting in spring or summer 2012 will be accepted through February 28th, 2011. Invitations for full Research Proposals will be communicated in late March. Applications are to be submitted in English. Research topics that may be considered for funding include, but are not limited to: • Increasing the understanding of ecology and conservation of wildlife and other biodiversity within the context of human environments within a major North American metropolitan landscape. • Effective adaptive management interventions for human-wildlife conflict and species conservation issues within the urban/suburban/rural gradient. • Increasing knowledge on the ecosystem service value of biodiversity within human environments associated with major North American metropolitan areas. Grants A minimum annual grant of $20,000 USD is available to cover research related costs, which can include the following if appropriate: equipment (under $1000 USD), tools, supplies, research permits, scientist transport to the field, support staff, staff and scientist food and accommodation while running volunteer teams. The grant cannot be used for scientist salaries, overhead, capital equipment, and other expenses not directly related to the project. Volunteer costs in the field (volunteer accommodation, food and transport in the field ) will be funded by Earthwatch separately from the research grant. The field research grants are tenable for three years, and potentially renewable in the fourth year. Additional • Comfortable accommodations for the proposed project must be located a reasonable travel distance from the research site(s) in order to travel back and forth daily. • Time for scheduled recreational activities enabling volunteers to explore the surrounding area and experience cultural aspects are encouraged. For additional information about Earthwatch’s application process see our website: http://www.earthwatch.org/aboutus/research/scientistopps/reqresprop/ All questions and Concept Note submissions should be directed to: Dr. Thomas Dietsch • [email protected]
