Species Discovery Awards
Building Capacity for Marine Species Discovery
The Ocean Census Species Discovery Awards support outstanding taxonomists, biodiversity and community scientists involved in marine species discovery.
The Awards prioritises the initial step to ‘Discovered’, notably from legacy collections (specimens stored but not analysed in museums and marine research institutes). A species is classified as ‘discovered’ when experts determine—using morphological characteristics and, if necessary, genetic sequencing—that it is new to science. Ongoing and related work to achieve ‘Described’ is welcome but will not be considered in the evaluation of Awards.
More information on definitions can be found here.
Calls for applications are announced at least annually (April). Awards range from USD$5,000 to USD$20,000 to cover critical research activities, analytical costs, and specimen processing.
What the Awards Support
Activities supported may include, but not be limited to
DNA Sequencing & Genetic Analysis
Confirming the identity of potential new species.
Access to Type Material & Collections
Funding for researchers to study specimens in museum collections.
Collaborative Taxonomic Research
Working with collaborators to progress species discovery work
Scientific Equipment & Analytical Expertise
Covering costs such as SEM time, imaging, and temporary technical assistance.
Specimen Preparation
Such as sorting, imaging, and databasing of specimens and the cost of temporary technical assistance
Publication Costs
Support for open-access publication fees (zero-cost publication options are available).
Citizen Science & Training
Supporting projects that result in species discoveries through education and training.
Research Travel Expenses
Including economy travel, accommodation and meals for up to a few weeks while conducting research at predefined institutions(s), and services purchased from the host institution research supplies.
Who Can
Apply?
The Ocean Census Species Discovery Awards are open to:
- Marine Taxonomists & Biologists – Early-career and experienced researchers.
- Research Institutes & Universities – Scientists working on species discovery.
- Citizen Scientists – Independent researchers contributing to species identification.
To apply, you must be over the age of 18 and a member of the Ocean Census Science Network.
Applications of most nationalities are welcome; however, we are unable to make awards to persons in countries with UN sanctions or persons on the UK sanctioned list.
Upcoming Awards Cycle
Applications Reviewed
13th May 2025
Outcomes Shared
27th May 2025
Application Process
1. Join the Science Network & Check Eligibility
Read the full guidelines to check your eligibility and ensure your research aligns with the Ocean Census mission and award criteria.
2. Submit your proposal
Provide details on your research objectives, expected species discoveries, and budget breakdown. (Applications must be submitted in English.)
3. Review & Selection
Applications will be reviewed by the Ocean Census Science Advisory Panel, with awards granted based on:
✔️ Quality of application & feasibility of research
✔️ Number of new species expected to be discovered
✔️ Value for money & effective use of funds
✔️ Potential for capacity building & knowledge exchange
The review process may involve interviews and / or further information requested by the Ocean Census team.
4. Research & Report
Recipients conduct their research and submit a catalogue page, data sheet, and image for each species discovered (or a scientific paper if describing the species).
Species Description Resources
All Awardees catalogue page, data sheet and image for each species discovered (or a paper, data sheet and image for each species described). Templates and examples of these documents are found here along will be sent to successful recipients, along with the Ocean Census Data Sharing and Embargo Policy.
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