Top 10 Research Grants in Environmental Sciences

Research grants in environmental studies vary widely in terms of scope, focus areas, and funding amounts. While it’s difficult to definitively list the “top ten” grants due to their diversity and changing nature, here are ten notable grants that have historically supported environmental research:

National Science Foundation (NSF) – Environmental Research and Education: NSF offers various grants supporting environmental research, covering areas like sustainability, climate change, biodiversity, and more. Their programs often focus on interdisciplinary approaches and collaborations.
National Institutes of Health (NIH) – Environmental Health Sciences: NIH funds research focusing on the impacts of environmental factors on human health, including air and water quality, exposure to pollutants, and related health risks.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Grants: The EPA provides grants for research on environmental issues such as pollution prevention, ecological conservation, environmental justice, and sustainable practices.
National Geographic Society Grants: National Geographic supports research through various grants aimed at conservation, exploration, and understanding the interconnectedness of human and natural systems.
The Nature Conservancy Grants: This organization offers grants to support research and conservation efforts focused on protecting ecosystems, wildlife, and promoting sustainable land and water use.
The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Grants: WWF provides grants for scientific research that contributes to conservation efforts, biodiversity protection, and sustainable development.
Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI) Grants: Focused on tropical ecosystems, STRI offers research grants for studying biodiversity, climate change impacts, and ecosystem dynamics in tropical regions.
The Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation Environmental Conservation Grants: This foundation funds research in environmental conservation, with a focus on promoting sustainability and supporting innovative approaches.
The David and Lucile Packard Foundation Grants: Packard Foundation supports research and initiatives aimed at sustainable ocean and land use, biodiversity conservation, and mitigating climate change impacts.
The European Commission Horizon Europe Grants: Horizon Europe provides funding for various research projects, including those addressing environmental challenges such as climate change, renewable energy, and sustainable resource management.

Funding opportunities are made available through the Collaborative Research Programme (CRP) – ICGEB Research Grants, which is a dedicated source of funding aimed at financing projects addressing original scientific problems of particular relevance for the host country and of regional interest.

Established in 1988, the programme aims to stimulate collaborative research in Member States and with the ICGEB Component laboratories, to promote training of young scientists and to facilitate the creation of appropriate research facilities. The programme provides support for research projects in basic science, human healthcare, industrial and agricultural biotechnology and bioenergy. A call for applications is launched yearly.

We are pleased to confirm that over 510 applications from across 44 Member States have been received under the 2021 call for Grants.

Type of Support

Grants are awarded to contribute to the implementation of outstanding scientific research projects. An important element of successful applications is the feasibility of the proposed project within the designated time-frame (maximum 36 months). The maximum annual contribution from ICGEB is Euro 25,000.

Funds can only be used to cover expenditures that are directly relevant to the project. This may include purchasing consumable items, scientific literature and basic standard laboratory equipment. Travel and training costs can also be covered.

Salaries of the Principal Investigators and infrastructural support (e.g., normal administrative and overhead expenses of the Institution, maintenance and rental of capital equipment, building, etc.) are not admissible and cannot be funded.

To read about the kind of ground-breaking research on infectious diseases, cancer, metabolic and genetic diseases, plant science, immunity, genetics and many biotechnology applications that are being supported by ICGEB

Applications.Eligibility

Applicants for research grant proposals (identified as “CRPs”) should hold positions at Universities or Research Institutes in any of the ICGEB Member States.

International collaboration is an essential feature of all ICGEB grants and must be fully integrated into the project. Active collaboration with ICGEB Research Groups is welcome but not mandatory. Particular attention will be given to projects addressing issues of interest for specific geographic regions and presented by groups collaborating across more than one country.

Investigating groups do not qualify for submission of applications:if previously awarded projects have not been evaluated and satisfactorily concluded;
if the University or Research Institute of the Principal Investigator is based in Italy.

A special category of CRP-ICGEB Early Career Return Grants is intended to fund young researchers with an outstanding track record, who have spent a minimum of 2 years abroad and have recently returned to an ICGEB Member State to establish their own independent laboratories.
Applicants for Early Career Return Grants should be no more than 40 years of age at the time of application.
Applicants should have returned to an ICGEB Member State (except Italy) no more than 2 years prior to submitting the application.

Thanks to a contribution of the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) within the framework of the BIOTECHNET initiative (AID n. 12098), dedicated resources are available for candidates from Ethiopia and Djibouti applying to the CRP–Research Grants Call for proposals.

These grants often support a wide range of research, including fieldwork, data analysis, policy development, and community engagement. Researchers in environmental studies can explore these opportunities to advance knowledge and contribute to addressing pressing environmental challenges.

20 diverse Research Grants available across various fields:

20 diverse research grants available across various fields:

National Institutes of Health (NIH) Grants: Offering numerous opportunities across biomedical and health-related research.
National Science Foundation (NSF) Grants: Supporting fundamental research and education in all fields of science and engineering.
European Research Council (ERC) Grants: Funding for groundbreaking research across various disciplines in Europe.
Wellcome Trust Grants: Supporting biomedical research, healthcare, and medical innovation globally.
Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Grants: Focusing on global health, poverty alleviation, and education initiatives.
Google Research Awards: Funding for innovative computer science research projects.
US Department of Energy (DOE) Grants: Supporting research in energy, technology, and national security.
American Heart Association Grants: Funding cardiovascular research and initiatives.
MacArthur Foundation Grants: Supporting projects aimed at addressing critical social challenges.
Smithsonian Research Grants: Funding opportunities for various fields in science, art, history, and culture.
Human Frontier Science Program (HFSP) Grants: Supporting international collaborations in life sciences.
Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) Grants: Funding for biomedical research and science education.
European Molecular Biology Organization (EMBO) Grants: Supporting life sciences research and training in Europe.
Alfred P. Sloan Foundation Grants: Focusing on science, technology, economics, and more.
National Geographic Society Grants: Funding for research and exploration in natural sciences, conservation, and anthropology.
European Union Horizon 2020 Grants: Funding various research and innovation projects across Europe.
Spencer Foundation Grants: Supporting education research aimed at improving outcomes.
Simons Foundation Grants: Funding mathematics, theoretical physics, and autism research.
Arts Council England Grants: Supporting arts, culture, and creative projects across England.
Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) Grants: Funding for international collaborative research in Japan.

These grants cater to diverse research interests, providing opportunities for scientists, scholars, and innovators worldwide to pursue impactful projects in their respective fields.

You can also refer to Research Grants

Research Grants for PhD & Postdocs

Are you interested in conducting research in Germany or pursuing a research career in Germany? Here you will find information about where you can conduct research and work in Germany, as well as the various opportunities science and research can offer in Germany. Support ranges from funding for conferences to language programs in Germany.

The German Academic Exchange Service, known as DAAD (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst), offers an array of research grants for PhD students and postdoctoral researchers from around the world. These grants provide financial support, allowing recipients to pursue research opportunities at universities, research institutions, or other academic organizations in Germany.

PhD Research Grants: For individuals pursuing a doctoral degree, DAAD offers various funding options such as the Research Grants – Doctoral Program, which supports short-term research stays for doctoral candidates. It enables them to conduct research in Germany for a period of 1-10 months.
Postdoctoral Research Grants: These grants cater to scholars who have recently completed their doctorate and are seeking opportunities to advance their research. The Postdoctoral Researchers International Mobility Experience (P.R.I.M.E.) program is one such initiative by DAAD. It provides funding for up to 18 months, split between research abroad and reintegration phases in Germany.
Specialized Grants: DAAD also offers specific grants targeting particular fields of study, interdisciplinary research, or collaborative projects. These could include grants for subjects like renewable energy, sustainability, medicine, engineering, social sciences, and humanities.
Eligibility and Requirements: The eligibility criteria for these grants typically involve academic excellence, a well-defined research proposal, and a collaboration agreement with a German host institution or supervisor. Proficiency in German may be required for some programs, although many research opportunities are available in English.
Application Process: Applicants usually need to submit a detailed research proposal, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose outlining their research objectives. The application process is competitive, and candidates are selected based on the quality and feasibility of their research proposals.
Benefits: Successful applicants receive financial support in the form of stipends, travel allowances, health insurance, and sometimes assistance with language courses. Additionally, they gain exposure to Germany’s renowned research facilities, academic networks, and cultural experiences.
Duration and Extensions: The duration of these grants varies based on the specific program. Extensions might be possible, subject to funding availability and the approval of the host institution.

DAAD’s research grants play a vital role in fostering international collaboration, supporting academic exchange, and promoting innovative research endeavors. They contribute significantly to the development of global academic networks and the advancement of knowledge across various fields of study. Prospective applicants should regularly check DAAD’s official website for updated information regarding available programs, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines.

Click on the links below to see what opportunities may be relevant for you.

GO ABROAD

Research

There are several different Research Grants available ranging from short time periods to several years. If you would like to pursue research in the field of German Studies, you may want to consider looking into our German Studies Research Grant.

Shot of a young man writing on a whiteboard while students look on.

DISCOVER ABROAD

Research Grants DAAD & Partners

DAAD has partnered with other research institutes in order to offer you a breadth of research opportunities in various fields. Take a look at the offers below to find just the right fit for you.

GAIN EXPERIENCE ABROAD

Internships

You can gain practical research or work experience by doing an internship in Germany. From research in academia to internships at German companies – the choice is yours.

LANGUAGE ABROAD

Learn German

The best way to learn German is to spend time in Germany. Take a look at the grant opportunities below to further your studies of the German language.

National Institutes of Health (NIH) Grants: Offering Opportunities in Health-related Research

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) stands as a cornerstone of biomedical and health-related research, driving innovation and scientific breakthroughs. At its core, NIH functions as the primary agency of the United States government, dedicated to advancing knowledge about health and disease. Among its myriad initiatives, the NIH offers grants that serve as lifeblood for researchers, funding groundbreaking studies across diverse scientific domains. These grants provide not only financial support but also an invaluable endorsement and recognition that catapults research endeavors forward.

The NIH grants cater to a wide spectrum of research areas, covering everything from basic science to clinical trials, public health interventions, and translational research. This expansive reach ensures that investigations into fundamental biological processes, disease mechanisms, therapeutics, and population health are consistently supported and propelled forward.

The significance of NIH grants lies not just in the financial backing they offer, but also in the stamp of credibility they confer upon researchers and their work. The NIH grant review process is rigorous, emphasizing scientific merit, innovation, and potential impact. Successful applicants gain more than just financial resources; they also receive validation and recognition within the scientific community, paving the way for future collaborations and opportunities.

Securing an NIH grant, however, is no easy feat. The process demands meticulous planning, a well-crafted proposal, and a clear understanding of NIH guidelines and priorities. Here are key steps to navigate the NIH grant application process:

Identify the Right Grant Opportunity: NIH offers various grant types (R01, R21, etc.) for different stages and types of research. Choose the grant program aligning best with your research goals.
Develop a Strong Research Proposal: Craft a compelling proposal that outlines the significance, innovation, approach, and potential impact of your research. Emphasize how your work aligns with NIH priorities.
Understand NIH Guidelines: Familiarize yourself with NIH guidelines, submission deadlines, and specific criteria for the grant you are applying for. Follow instructions meticulously.
Collaborate and Network: Collaborate with experts, build collaborations, and seek mentorship. Networking within your field can provide insights and support.
Seek Feedback: Prior to submission, seek feedback from colleagues, mentors, or NIH program officers. Constructive criticism can significantly improve your proposal.
Submit and Follow-up: Submit your application through NIH’s electronic system and monitor the review process. Even if your application is not funded initially, use reviewer feedback to strengthen future submissions.
Persistence and Continuous Learning: Grant writing is a skill that improves with practice. Learn from both successful and unsuccessful attempts to refine your approach.

The National Institutes of Health is the largest public funder of biomedical research in the world. In fiscal year 2022, NIH invested most of its $45 billion appropriations in research seeking to enhance life, and to reduce illness and disability. NIH-funded research has led to breakthroughs and new treatments helping people live longer, healthier lives, and building the research foundation that drives discovery.