INTRODUCTION

The Helen G. and Allan D. Cruickshank Research Awards are given to support projects dealing with wild birds in Florida. Proposals submitted for research awards should be directed at improving knowledge of Florida birds and should propose work to be done in Florida. Students (undergraduate to PhD) are especially encouraged to apply; post-doctoral level scientists and non-profit organizations or their representatives may also be considered for funding. The maximum amount awarded each year typically falls in the range of $2000-2500; multiple awards for smaller grants are commonly provided.

Due Date: February 15 of each year.

PROPOSAL PREPARATION AND EVALUATION

Applications must contain 4 distinct parts:
(1) an updated CV with current contact information;
(2) a research proposal of up to 8 double-spaced pages (4 single-spaced; excluding references, figures, and tables);
(3) a 1-page research Budget showing total project costs, and what portion of the total this award will cover.
(4) a timeline indicating when work will be completed.

Research proposals must be well-written and contain an Introduction/Background section with literature review; a clear statement of Research Objectives, Study Design, proposed Methods and Materials that include information on the study area/species, and a short Synthesis and Significance section at the end emphasizing why funding this project will enhance knowledge or conservation of Florida birds.

All application materials should be put into a single PDF file, in order, and emailed to the Committee Chair with CRUICKSHANK PROPOSAL in the title line.

Applications will be assessed in three content areas:
(1) basic biology (new understanding of bird biology in area(s) of specialization);
(2) conservation biology (new understanding of how populations, species, or communities (patterns, processes) are affected by humans such that this understanding could lead to designing better protection of avian biodiversity);
(3) management application (testing of management techniques that foster native birds: species, populations, communities).

Proposals must be feasible with a strong chance of success if this award is received. They should be strong in one or more of the focal areas.

EMAIL COMPLETED APPLICATIONS TO:
Katie Sieving
Wildlife Ecology and Conservation
University of Florida
Phone: 352-846-0569.

Applications must be received by close of business, February 15th. Recipients will be announced at the Spring meeting of the Florida Ornithological Society.

For questions concerning the Cruickshank Research Award, please contact the Committee Chairman.