The UC Natural Reserve System is a network of protected natural areas throughout California. Its 41 sites include more than 756,000 acres, making it the largest university-administered reserve system in the world. Most major state ecosystems are represented, from coastal tidepools to inland deserts, and lush wetlands to Sierra Nevada forests. The reserves also serve as a gateway to more than a million acres of public lands. Founded in 1965 to provide undisturbed environments for research, education, and public service, the Natural Reserve System contributes to the understanding and wise stewardship of the earth.
For more information on the UC Natural Reserve System, visit our website: http://www.ucnrs.org
We are pleased that you are interested in applying for a 2024-25 Mildred E. Mathias Graduate Student Research Grant. The UC Natural Reserve System provides these grants to support graduate student field-based research at its 41 reserves. Doctoral and master's students from any UC campus pursuing a graduate degree in any field are eligible. Studies must be conducted on reserves in the UC Natural Reserve System.
Up to $38,000 is available to support research in any discipline. A maximum of $3,000 may be awarded per applicant.
In addition to the base grant, the California Institute for Biodiversity offers matching funds for projects that voucher their specimens. These matching funds may increase the total award by up to $2,500 for eligible projects.
Up to $1,000 to support vouchering in durable collections; requires
a short specimen management plan
Up to $500 for DNA sequencing of insects, fungi, and soil biodiversity; sequences must be made publicly available
Up to $1,000 for projects focused on insects, fungi, and soil biodiversity
Essential information on the application process, eligibility requirements, and evaluation criteria is available here: https://ucnrs.org/research/student-research-funding/mathias-grant/. Please read the full application instructions before initiating your application.