Deadline: 31-Aug-2026
The Field-Based Research Grant Program supports field research to identify and develop glacier sites that can serve as analogues for Antarctic systems. Two funding tiers are available: up to $200,000 for full field projects and up to $25,000 for supplemental data collection during an existing field season.
Applicants must be at least 18 years old and include local collaboration when working outside their home country.
What Is the Field-Based Research Grant Program?
This grant funds field-based scientific research focused on glaciers and environments that can help researchers better understand Antarctic systems.
By studying similar glacier environments elsewhere, researchers can test methods, collect data, and improve understanding of ice processes relevant to Antarctica.
Main Purpose of the Grant
The programme aims to support projects that:
- Identify glacier analogue sites
- Improve Antarctic systems research
- Collect field data in real conditions
- Develop new scientific understanding
- Strengthen international collaboration
- Advance polar and climate science
What Is a Glacier Analogue Site?
A glacier analogue site is a non-Antarctic location with environmental or physical characteristics similar to Antarctic glaciers or ice systems.
These sites allow research in more accessible locations while generating insights relevant to polar science.
Funding Tiers
1. Full Field Project
Maximum funding:
- Up to $200,000
Supports:
- Dedicated field season
- Logistics
- Instrumentation
- Personnel
- Data collection operations
2. Field Supplement
Maximum funding:
- Up to $25,000
Supports:
- Additional data collection during an already funded field season
- Expansion of existing research activities
Overhead Costs
- Overhead may account for up to 10% of total budget
Who Can Apply?
Basic Eligibility
Applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Submit complete application materials
- Meet legal and funding compliance rules
International Collaboration Requirement
If conducting research outside the applicant’s home country:
- Include at least one team member from the host country
This supports:
- Local relevance
- Collaboration
- Ethical engagement
- Operational effectiveness
Compliance Requirements
Funding must comply with applicable U.S. laws and regulations, including sanctions restrictions.
Applicants must ensure no prohibited individuals or entities are involved.
Non-compliance may lead to:
- Withdrawal of funding
- Legal consequences
- Disqualification
What Applications Must Include
Required materials include:
- Completed application form
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Detailed budget justification
- Proposed site description
- Field activity plan
- Personnel list
- Timeline
- Permit requirements
- Access or logistics considerations
Strong Project Themes
Suitable proposals may include:
- Glacier melt dynamics
- Ice movement monitoring
- Sediment transport in glacier systems
- Remote sensing validation
- Climate-glacier interaction studies
- Subglacial hydrology analogues
- Field instrumentation testing
- Comparative Antarctic process modelling
Why This Grant Matters
Antarctic fieldwork is expensive and logistically difficult.
This grant helps researchers:
- Use accessible glacier systems
- Reduce research barriers
- Gather critical data
- Test tools before Antarctic deployment
- Build international science partnerships
How to Apply
Step 1: Select a Relevant Glacier Site
Choose a location with strong Antarctic relevance.
Step 2: Build a Scientific Case
Explain:
- Why the site is an analogue
- Research questions
- Expected contribution
Step 3: Plan Field Operations
Include:
- Personnel
- Safety
- Equipment
- Access
- Permits
- Timeline
Step 4: Build a Realistic Budget
Separate:
- Logistics
- Personnel
- Equipment
- Overhead (max 10%)
Step 5: Submit Full Proposal
Ensure all documents are complete and compliant.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Scientific Errors
- Weak Antarctic relevance
- No clear hypothesis
- Poor site justification
Operational Errors
- Missing permits
- Unrealistic logistics
- No host-country collaborator
- Incomplete budget
Compliance Errors
- Ignoring legal restrictions
- Missing declarations
Tips for a Strong Proposal
- Clearly connect site to Antarctic systems
- Use measurable field objectives
- Show team expertise
- Include risk management
- Demonstrate local collaboration
- Keep budget practical and justified
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the maximum grant size?
Up to $200,000 for full projects.
2. Is there a smaller funding option?
Yes, up to $25,000 for supplements.
3. Can research happen outside my country?
Yes, but include a host-country team member.
4. Is overhead allowed?
Yes, up to 10%.
5. What documents are required?
Form, CV, budget, site plan, activities, personnel, timeline, and access details.
6. Who can apply?
Applicants aged 18+ meeting programme rules.
7. Why use analogue glacier sites?
They help study Antarctic-like systems in more accessible locations.
Conclusion
The Field-Based Research Grant Program 2026 is a valuable opportunity for scientists studying glaciers and Antarctic systems. With funding up to $200,000, it supports meaningful field science, international collaboration, and high-impact data collection.
Strong proposals should clearly justify the analogue site, demonstrate scientific value, and present realistic field logistics.
For more information, visit Arête Glacier Initiative.