Open Call for Michele Panuccio Research Grant Program

The Michele Panuccio Research Grant Program by the Raptor Research Foundation (RRF) supports young researchers conducting field-based research on raptor migration and conservation in Europe. The program offers up to USD 3,500, includes waived publication page charges in the Journal of Raptor Research, and accepts applications annually until June 30.

Program Overview

The Raptor Research Foundation (RRF) invites applications for the Michele Panuccio Research Grant Program, an annual funding opportunity dedicated to supporting young researchers conducting field research on raptor migration and conservation in the European region.

The grant honors Michele Panuccio’s contributions to raptor migration research and aims to advance scientific understanding and conservation of migratory birds of prey across Europe.

Only one grant is awarded each year, making this a selective and highly competitive program.

Funding Amount and Benefits

Grant Funding

• Maximum award amount: USD 3,500
• Funding supports field-based research expenses related to raptor migration and conservation

Publication Benefit

• Waived page charges for publishing in the Journal of Raptor Research
• The grant recipient must be the primary author
• The published paper must directly reflect the funded research project

Research Focus and Scope

Eligible Research Topics

• Raptor migration studies in Europe
• Conservation of migratory birds of prey
• Field-based research on movement ecology, migration routes, stopover sites, or threats

Ineligible Applications

• Research conducted outside the European region
• Projects not focused on raptor migration or conservation
• Applications exceeding page limits or missing required documents

Who Is Eligible?

Applicants must meet the following criteria.

Eligibility Requirements

• Young researchers aged 35 years or younger
• Conducting field research in the European region
• Able to lead and publish the proposed research
• Willing to submit the application in English

There are no restrictions on nationality, provided the research focus and age criteria are met.

Language and Review Policy

• Applications must be submitted in English
• Translation or editorial assistance may be available, depending on the applicant’s native language
• Applications are evaluated based on scientific merit
• Grammar and syntax do not influence the evaluation outcome

This ensures fair consideration for applicants whose first language is not English.

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit a complete application package containing all required materials.

Mandatory Documents

• Cover letter explaining:
– Motivation for the research
– Study objectives
– Expected outcomes and impact

• Curriculum Vitae (CV) of the applicant

• Research proposal (maximum 5 pages)

• Applicant photograph, preferably taken in the field, for use in award announcements

Incomplete or non-compliant applications may not be considered.

Proposal Structure and Content

The proposal must be clearly organized and include the following sections.

Required Proposal Components

• Background and justification
• Research objectives
• Study design and methods
• Budget and explanation of fund use
• Expected results and conservation relevance
• Literature cited

Proposals exceeding the page limit or lacking required sections may be rejected.

How the Grant Works

Step-by-Step Process

1. Develop a research project focused on raptor migration or conservation in Europe

2. Prepare a proposal following the required structure and page limits

3. Compile all required documents, including CV and photograph

4. Submit the complete application in English

5. Applications undergo scientific merit review

6. One recipient is selected annually

7. Funded research is conducted and prepared for publication

Why This Grant Matters

Scientific Advancement

• Supports high-quality research on migratory raptors
• Enhances understanding of migration patterns and threats

Conservation Impact

• Provides data essential for raptor conservation strategies
• Supports evidence-based conservation across Europe

Career Development

• Offers competitive early-career funding
• Provides publication support in a leading raptor science journal

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying after the age limit of 35
• Submitting research outside the European region
• Exceeding the five-page proposal limit
• Failing to include the required photograph
• Submitting incomplete application materials
• Missing the June 30 deadline

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the Michele Panuccio Research Grant Program?

It is an annual RRF grant supporting young researchers conducting field research on raptor migration and conservation in Europe.

2. How much funding does the grant provide?

The grant provides up to USD 3,500 for one selected project per year.

3. Who is eligible to apply?

Researchers aged 35 or younger conducting eligible raptor migration research in Europe.

4. Is publication support included?

Yes. Page charges are waived for publication in the Journal of Raptor Research if the recipient is the primary author and the paper reflects the funded study.

5. Must applications be submitted in English?

Yes. Applications must be in English, but editorial or translation assistance may be available.

6. How many grants are awarded each year?

Only one grant is awarded annually.

7. What is the application deadline?

The deadline for submission is June 30.

Conclusion

The Michele Panuccio Research Grant Program provides a focused and prestigious opportunity for young scientists studying raptor migration and conservation in Europe. With targeted funding, publication support, and international recognition, the program plays a key role in advancing raptor science while supporting the next generation of conservation researchers. Applicants should ensure strict adherence to eligibility criteria and submission requirements to remain competitive.