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 and dark materials (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. All discoveries are published open access in the Ocean Census Biodiversity Data Platform (unless embargoed).
Calls for applications are announced at least annually (April). Awards are for USD$5,000 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
To support species discovery only.
Access to Type Material & Collections
Funding for researchers to study specimens in museum and other 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, preparation of slides, imaging, and the cost of temporary technical assistance.
Citizen Science & Training
Projects that focus on species discovery with an additional element of improving skills, knowledge and providing technical training in marine species discovery.
Research Travel Expenses
Including economy travel, accommodation and subsistence while conducting research at predefined institution(s), and services and / or supplies purchased from the host institution.
Need extra help?
Please read our FAQ’s for more information on what activities the species discovery awards can support.
Who Can Apply for the Awards Programme?
The Ocean Census Species Discovery Awards are open to:
- Marine researchers – Early-career and experienced researchers.
- Research institutes & Universities – Scientists working on species discovery.
- Citizen Scientists – Independent researchers contributing to marine species discovery.
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 consider applications from persons in countries with current UK sanction regimes or persons on the UK sanctioned list.
Upcoming Awards Cycle
Application
Deadline
12pm BST
30th April 2026
(Late applications will not be accepted)
Applications
Reviewed
5 – 13th May 2026
Outcomes
Shared
19 – 22nd May 2026
Application
Process
1. Join the Science Network & Check Eligibility
Read the Additional Information and FAQs to check your eligibility and ensure your research aligns with the Ocean Census mission and award criteria.
2. Submit your application
Provide details on your research objectives, expected species discoveries, timeline of milestones and deliverables, risk mitigation and budget breakdown. You will also need to upload your CV, publication list and a letter or email from each collection to be visited (if appropriate). (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
✔️ Risk mitigation in place to ensure delivery of the estimated number of species discoveries
✔️ Potential for training, skill and / or knowledge development in marine species discovery
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 their new species via the BDP app. All new species must be ‘discovered’ by the deadline.
Past Species Discovery Awardees
Take a look at a couple of success stories from the 2024 Species Discovery Awards –
with Dr. Sonia Rowley and Dr. Dave Ebert.
Find out more about past awardees by checking our “News & Media” page.
Additional Information
Find out about further details on the awards including activities supported, eligibility requirements, data sharing policies and more
01FAQ’s
Have a question? Please have a look at the FAQ’s to view questions before getting in contact with us
02
Join the census
The Ocean Census Alliance unites national and philanthropic marine institutes, museums, and universities, backed by governments, philanthropy, business and civil society partners.
