Deadline: 15-Oct-2025
The Royal Irish Academy has announced its Archaeology Research Excavation Grants Programme for archaeological research excavation associated with the archaeology of Ireland (including Northern Ireland), including pre-excavation surveys, post-excavation analyses, reporting, publication and archiving of RIA funded excavation.
Helping to grow their understanding of archaeology in the context of the finite nature of the archaeological resource. Exploring standalone research questions where excavation could offer new or innovative insights into archaeology. Including applications which research archaeological sites impacted by climate change in line with the goals, objectives and actions of The Built and Architectural Heritage Climate Change Adaptation Plan (CCSAP).
This grant provides funding for a wide range of archaeological activities, including pre-excavation surveys, archaeological excavation with provision for post-excavation responsibilities, additional seasons of excavation or survey, unforeseen post-excavation analysis for recently supported projects, completion of final excavation reports, publication of research findings, and archiving and accessioning of materials. Applications will be reviewed against four main criteria: relevance to the grant’s goals, the applicant’s experience, the quality of project design and methodology, and a clear dissemination plan for the research results.
The scheme is open to archaeologists and archaeological researchers working in Ireland and Northern Ireland, including PhD students, though undergraduate and Master’s-level students are not eligible. Normally, the applicant must also hold the excavation licence, with exceptions considered on a case-by-case basis. Proposals led by researchers based on the island of Ireland will be prioritised, while those from researchers abroad will be assessed for feasibility individually. Applicants must also be compliant with existing reporting requirements and provide a Compliance Letter if reports are outstanding.
Funding for the scheme has previously averaged around €20,000 per grant. It may cover excavation costs, staff wages, equipment and site expenses, post-excavation analysis, specialist services, travel, accommodation, and scientific testing. Salary costs may also be reimbursed if supported by proper evidence of payment. However, funding cannot be used for commercial excavations, projects linked to undergraduate or Master’s studies, institutional overheads, overdue reports without compliance letters, incomplete post-excavation work from previous grants, offsite training activities, or the purchase of standard equipment expected to already be available.
To apply, applicants must submit several required documents, including a referee letter verifying competency, relevant site maps and plans, a full budget breakdown, detailed specialist quotations, conflict of interest disclosures, and where relevant, confirmations from the National Museum of Ireland, the National Monuments Service, or the NMNI regarding permissions in principle. Incomplete applications will be deemed ineligible.
Once submitted, eligible applications will undergo assessment by the Grants subcommittee of the Standing Committee for Archaeology. Decisions are expected before the end of November 2025, and all funded projects must be completed by November 2026. Successful applicants will receive detailed instructions alongside their award letters, while all applicants, regardless of outcome, will be provided with feedback.
For more information, visit RIA.