The Richard Estes Memorial Grant was established to enhance graduate student research by providing an award at the annual meeting of the SVP. The award is directed toward research in nonmammalian (non-synapsid/Pan-Mammalian) vertebrate paleontology, with emphasis on systematics, morphology, biogeography and paleoecology. The review panel especially welcomes projects involving one-off field-based activities.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
- Current membership in SVP is required. If you have not joined or renewed your membership for the current calendar year, please do so before submitting your grant application.
- Applicant must be a graduate student at the time of application.
- Students applying for the Estes Grant are not eligible to also apply for the Dawson Grant, Patterson Grant, Wood Award, or Lindsay Award in the same calendar year.
HOW TO APPLY
Submit applications during the annual application period via the SVP online system. You will be asked to provide the following:
- Detailed budget information including travel and living expenses, permit and material costs and additional expenses as well as other funding you are already receiving for the project. Clearly indicate how the award would be utilized.
- Project description (3 pages, single-spaced maximum) Include the hypotheses you aim to test, the broader relevance to vertebrate paleontology, a brief outline of the timetable and logistics of your proposed project. State likely completion date for the research. Project descriptions that exceed page limits will automatically be rejected.
- Letter of support from project advisor or major professor including full contact information.
- A recent photo of the applicant and a brief (300-500 word) bio (these will only be used for the SVP Awards Banquet if the applicant receives this award).
Be sure to name all uploaded files with your name and a description (e.g. John Smith Photo).
Applications for the 2025 Estes Memorial Grant are now being accepted. Click here to access the online application form. The submission deadline is April 1, 2025, at 11:59 pm ET.
QUESTIONS?
Jason Head, Chair, Estes Grant Panel