National Geographic: Biodiversity Exploration and Discovery
National Geographic is committed to a better understanding of the planet and an improved ability to conserve the world’s biodiversity. With the goals to 1) find and describe new species, and 2) better understand the patterns of distribution and abundance of poorly known groups of organisms, the Biodiversity Exploration and Discovery initiative will support inventories, surveys, and research expeditions in regions of the world where species discoveries are more likely to occur and where little or no information is available. Proposals for work in any biome are encouraged.
Applications must provide: 1) justification as to why the specific area or taxonomic group needs to be explored, 2) clear methodology for how species will be determined and a plan for taxonomic validation, and 3) a plan for depositing specimens and/or materials collected in an appropriate, permanent home. Preference will be given to proposals from applicants residing in the country of fieldwork, and all proposals must include at least one team member from the country where the fieldwork takes place. Projects that include the active involvement of early career conservationists are encouraged.
Proposals that focus on the following themes are encouraged:
- Inventories, surveys, and research expeditions in areas of endemism and richness, especially where these have been highly damaged or threatened by human activities
- Develop conservation strategies relating to new discoveries as they are made
- Better understand the patterns of biological diversity, including distribution and abundance of poorly known groups
Amount: Applicants may request up to $50,000.
Eligibility: Individuals who are at least 18 years old. Organizations can also apply for grants, but the person within the organization who will lead the project—not the institution—should be the applicant. Individuals who are not associated with any institution can apply but need to convey that they have access to the equipment, infrastructure, or facilities needed to complete the project appropriately.
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