Open Call for Dean Amadon Research Grant Program

The Dean Amadon Research Grant Program by the Raptor Research Foundation provides up to $4,500 to support research on the distribution, systematics, and taxonomy of raptors.

The grant funds one project annually and includes waived page charges for publication in the Journal of Raptor Research, with applications due by June 30.

Overview of the Grant Program

The Dean Amadon Research Grant Program is an annual research funding opportunity offered by the Raptor Research Foundation (RRF).

The program is designed to support scientists, researchers, and conservationists conducting focused research in raptor biology, specifically in the areas of systematics, taxonomy, and geographic distribution of raptor species.

Only one grant is awarded each year, making this a highly competitive and prestigious opportunity within the field of ornithology and raptor science.

Research Focus Areas Explained

The program prioritizes studies that deepen scientific understanding of how raptor species are classified and where they occur.

What Is Systematics?

In this grant context, systematics refers to research that examines evolutionary relationships and biological differences among raptor species or populations.

This may include:

• Molecular and genetic studies

• Taxonomy and species classification

• Comparative morphology

• Population differentiation across regions

• Differential migration patterns among geographic populations

What Is Distribution?

Distribution research must focus on where raptors live or why they occur in specific areas.

Relevant topics include:

• Geographic range mapping

• Habitat use and occupancy

• Factors influencing presence or absence in certain regions

• Spatial ecology related to raptor populations

Projects may address a wide range of approaches, but they must clearly connect to raptor distribution or systematics.

Funding Amount and Benefits

Grant Value

• Maximum funding: Up to $4,500

• Number of grants awarded annually: One

Publication Benefit

• Page charges are waived for the funded research

• Research must be published in the Journal of Raptor Research

• The grant recipient must be the primary author

• The published paper must directly reflect the work supported by the grant

This combination of research funding and publication support significantly reduces barriers to disseminating findings.

Who Is Eligible?

The program is open to individuals actively engaged in raptor research.

Eligible Applicants

• Researchers working on raptor biology

• Scientists studying raptor systematics, taxonomy, or distribution

• Individuals capable of serving as primary author on a peer-reviewed publication

There are no explicit geographic restrictions stated, but applicants must be able to complete and publish the proposed research.

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit a complete application package by the stated deadline.

Required Application Materials

1. One-Page Cover Letter

The cover letter must clearly outline:

• Motivation for the study

• Research objectives

• Expected outcomes and significance

2. Curriculum Vitae (CV)

• Current academic and professional background

• Relevant research experience

3. Detailed Research Proposal (Maximum 5 Pages)

The proposal must include:

• Background and scientific justification

• Research objectives and methods

• Budget detailing how grant funds will be used

• List of other funding sources requested or received

• Expected results and contributions to raptor science

• Literature cited section (maximum 1 page)

4. Applicant Photograph

• A photograph of the applicant

• Preferably taken in the field

• Used for official award announcements

Incomplete applications may not be considered.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step

1. Develop a research project focused on raptor systematics or distribution.

2. Prepare a concise one-page cover letter addressing motivation, goals, and outcomes.

3. Compile an up-to-date curriculum vitae.

4. Write a detailed proposal following the page limits and required sections.

5. Select or take a suitable field photograph.

6. Submit all materials before June 30.

Late submissions are typically not reviewed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Exceeding page limits for the proposal or literature cited section

• Submitting research unrelated to raptor systematics or distribution

• Failing to clearly justify how funds will be used

• Omitting the required photograph

• Proposing work that cannot realistically be published in the Journal of Raptor Research

Clear alignment with program priorities greatly improves competitiveness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How much funding does the Dean Amadon Research Grant provide?

The grant offers up to $4,500 for one research project each year.

How many grants are awarded annually?

Only one grant is awarded each year.

What research areas are supported?

The program supports research on raptor systematics, taxonomy, and distribution.

Is publication required?

Yes. The funded research must be published in the Journal of Raptor Research, with the recipient as the primary author.

Are page charges covered?

Yes. Page charges are waived for the funded publication.

What is the application deadline?

All application materials must be submitted by June 30.

Is a photograph required?

Yes. Applicants must submit a photograph, preferably taken in the field, for award announcements.

Conclusion

The Dean Amadon Research Grant Program is a targeted funding opportunity that supports high-impact research on raptor systematics and distribution while facilitating publication in a leading scientific journal.

With focused funding, waived publication costs, and a clear emphasis on advancing raptor biology, this grant represents a valuable opportunity for researchers committed to understanding and conserving raptor species worldwide.