Request for Research Proposals
Important Announcement for all Prospective Applicants:
As part of Earthwatch's efforts to achieve improved mission fit and build long-term legacy into the scientific research we sponsor, we are undergoing a strategic review of our programmatic structure. We have identified four priority research areas (PRAs): Climate Change, Oceans, Sustainable Cultures, and Sustainable Resource Management, and are completing research and business plans for these PRAs. We are very excited about the reframing of our science program and feel that it will define Earthwatch as a key player in conservation research and education.
As part of the strategic review process, which will ensure we develop best practices for evaluating and supporting work in these PRAs, we are placing a temporary hold on reviewing all NEW project proposals.
We will begin reviewing new project proposals for the 2010 field season in October or November of 2008, and welcome your application at that time. Any proposals we receive prior to October or November of 2008 will be saved for review at that time.
We appreciate your patience during this exciting time in Earthwatch's history, and look forward to working with you in the near future. If you have any questions, please contact the Research team at research@earthwatch.org.
Background
Earthwatch Institute is an international non-profit organization that supports scholarly field research worldwide in the biological, physical, social, and cultural sciences. The Research Program at Earthwatch is responsible for soliciting, reviewing, and recommending research proposals for support. Earthwatch provides scientists with the funding and labor they need in the form of motivated, dedicated, paying volunteers. This unique funding model enables us to support research in a variety of disciplines, on the basis of a researcher's need for volunteers and Earthwatch's ability to find them.
We support research covering a variety of topics and welcome a diverse scientific community. In particular, Earthwatch is interested in supporting typically under-represented groups, such as early career scientists, women in science, and developing country nationals. Projects that fit within at least one of our four Priority Research Areas (Climate Change, Sustainable Resource Management, Sustainable Oceans, and Sustainable Cultures) will be given preference
Field research grant awards are derived from funds contributed by Earthwatch members who serve as volunteer assistants on research projects. To date, Earthwatch has supported more than 3,000 research projects in 118 countries, with more than 79,000 volunteer field assistants contributing over $57 million in research grants and 10.8 million hours of research activity.
Eligibility
Earthwatch supports doctoral and post-doctoral researchers, or researchers with equivalent scholarship or commensurate life experience. The Research Program welcomes proposals from advanced scholars and professionals of any nationality. In general Earthwatch considers work in any geographic region. However, geopolitical climate and other safety concerns, evaluated on a yearly basis, may cause Earthwatch not to consider funding proposals for work in some geographical areas. Scientists are advised to inquire with our office prior to submitting if there is any doubt. Applicants intending to conduct research in foreign countries are strongly encouraged to include host country nationals as part of their research staff.
Grants
Earthwatch awards research grants on a per capita basis; the total grant amount is determined by multiplying the per capita grant by the number of Earthwatch volunteers participating on a project. Per capita grants average $850, and the average project grant range is between $17,000 and $51,000 for one full season. A project usually involves 30 to 60 total volunteers per field season, with 5 to 12 volunteers each on 4 to 5 teams. Each team typically spends 8 to 15 days in the field. Earthwatch grants cover the cost of maintaining volunteers and principal research staff in the field. The grants may also assist with other project expenses, but cannot be used for PI salaries, capital equipment, or overhead costs.
Concept Notes are reviewed by an internal committee and are recommended based on the significance of the scientific issue being addressed, funding priorities, geographical and disciplinary constraints, and available resources. Proposals, if invited, are evaluated by independent scientific peer reviewers with expertise relevant to the proposed research. Reviewers examine a project's potential contribution to scientific knowledge, the appropriateness of its research methodology, and logistical feasibility. Three personal references are also required for each Principal Investigator listed on the project.
Earthwatch supports research projects that plan to run for three years or more. However, funding priorities are reviewed on an annual basis and renewal of funding is not guaranteed and it is contingent on an evaluation of the project's accomplishments against the goals outlined in the proposal, the quality of the volunteer experience, and the financial viability of the project. Approximately two-thirds of Earthwatch grants are renewed each year and more than 25 percent of our projects have received support for 5 years or more. After 3 years of funding a PI may be invited to submit a 4th year proposal. A detailed research report (in conjunction with a 4th year proposal) is the basis for 4th year renewal. At this stage, the project will be evaluated against the metrics established by the initial proposal and against the research priorities of the organization.