Building Marine Research Capacity in Alaska's Coastline
GrantID: 1
Grant Funding Amount Low: $10,000,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $18,000,000
Summary
Grant Overview
Unique Research Capacity Needs in Alaska
Alaska is characterized by its vast and diverse ecosystems, which face an array of challenges due to climate change and resource management issues. The state's unique geography and the small, dispersed population create significant gaps in research capacity and infrastructure, especially in the fields of marine biology and environmental science. Local academic institutions often lack the requisite resources to carry out comprehensive research necessary for understanding these complex environmental issues.
Who Should Participate in Alaska’s Collaborative Research Initiative
Eligibility for this funding targets colleges, universities, and indigenous organizations focused on marine research within Alaska. Projects that include collaboration among multiple institutions will be prioritized. Eligibility extends to researchers who involve undergraduate and graduate students, providing them with hands-on research experiences, thereby strengthening the local research workforce.
Application Requirements for Alaskan Institutions
Proposals must outline a clear plan for interdisciplinary collaboration, specifying how different institutions will work together to enhance their research capabilities. Successful applications will demonstrate innovative approaches to building research facilities and provide timelines and budgets for project development. Ensuring the inclusion of local knowledge and community input is vital, as it adds to the relevance and applicability of research outcomes, particularly regarding climate impact on marine ecosystems.
Readiness and Community Engagement
Alaska's unique context demands that research initiatives also consider the involvement of indigenous knowledge and perspectives. Projects that engage local communities will not only address vital knowledge gaps but also foster a sense of ownership and relevance in research outcomes. This readiness to tackle research challenges collaboratively can create sustainable ecological and educational benefits, aligning research activity with the needs of local communities.
Conclusion: Strengthening Alaska's Research Framework
This collaborative marine research initiative presents an opportunity to bolster research capacity in Alaska's academic and indigenous sectors. By addressing knowledge disparities and infrastructure challenges, the funding will enable researchers to study vital marine ecosystems in-depth, delivering essential insights needed for both conservation efforts and community engagement.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements