Deadline: 31-Mar-2026
The Center for Plant Conservation invites graduate students to apply for its Plant Conservation Fellowship Program, supporting research on rare and endangered plants in the U.S., particularly in the Carolinas and Southeastern regions. Fellows receive up to $4,500 annually, conduct research in botanical gardens, and contribute to vital conservation efforts.
Program Overview
The Plant Conservation Fellowship Program enables graduate students to engage in hands-on research on rare and endangered plant species. The program aligns academic study with the Center for Plant Conservation’s mission, emphasizing ecological research, practical conservation, and botanical studies. It provides opportunities to build expertise while contributing to the preservation of U.S. flora.
Key Features
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Annual Research Grant: Up to $4,500 per fellow
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Hands-On Research: Conducted within participating botanical gardens
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Focus Areas: Rare and endangered plant species, with priority for the Carolinas and Southeastern U.S.
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Eligibility: Graduate students in biology, botany, ecology, horticulture, or related fields
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Citizenship Requirement: U.S. citizens or permanent residents enrolled in U.S.-based institutions
Who is Eligible?
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Graduate students pursuing degrees in biology, botany, ecology, horticulture, or related disciplines
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Research projects focusing on rare or endangered plant species, prioritizing the Carolinas and Southeastern U.S.
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Must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents
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Enrolled in a U.S.-based graduate program
How It Works
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Select a Research Project: Align your work with the Center’s mission, preferably focusing on endangered flora of the Southeastern United States.
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Conduct Research: Work within a botanical garden to gather data and contribute to conservation efforts.
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Prepare Your Application: Submit a complete package including:
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Cover letter
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Project narrative
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Budget and timeline
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Curriculum vitae (CV)
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Recommendation letter
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Compile Documents: Combine all materials into a single PDF following the submission guidelines.
Selection Process
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Applications are reviewed by a formal committee
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Notifications are sent by mid-March 2026
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Selected fellows receive the annual grant and guidance to conduct research
Application Details
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Deadline: January 31, 2026
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Funding Amount: Up to $4,500 per fellow
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Research Duration: Typically aligns with the academic year or specific project timeline within a botanical garden
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Submission: Online or as instructed, submitted in a single PDF
Tips for Applicants
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Focus on rare or endangered plant species and highlight the scientific and conservation impact
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Ensure your budget and timeline are realistic and clear
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Choose a botanical garden host that enables practical research
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Follow all formatting instructions carefully
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Secure a strong recommendation letter emphasizing your skills and commitment to plant conservation
FAQ
1. Who can apply for this fellowship?
Graduate students in biology, botany, ecology, horticulture, or related fields who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
2. Are international students eligible?
No. Applicants must be enrolled in a U.S.-based institution and hold U.S. citizenship or permanent residency.
3. What is the focus of the fellowship?
Research on rare and endangered plants, preferably native to the Carolinas and Southeastern United States.
4. How much funding is provided?
Up to $4,500 annually, supporting research expenses while working in a botanical garden.
5. What documents are required for the application?
Cover letter, project narrative, budget and timeline, CV, and a recommendation letter, all compiled into a single PDF.
6. When is the application deadline?
January 31, 2026.
7. When will applicants be notified of selection?
By mid-March 2026.
Conclusion
The Plant Conservation Fellowship Program provides graduate students with an invaluable opportunity to contribute to the conservation of rare and endangered plant species. With financial support, mentorship, and hands-on research experience in botanical gardens, fellows can make meaningful contributions to the preservation of the United States’ botanical heritage.
For more information, visit CAS.