Malacological Society of Australasia

Between 1981 and 1996, the Keith Sutherland Award funded over 40 molluscan research projects undertaken by both amateurs and research students. More than 50 publications in respected international scientific journals were published from these grants, as were a number of books. Initially funded solely by the Australian Museum, in 1993, the Malacological Society of Australasia became a co-sponsor of the award. Regretfully, in 1996 the Australian Museum decided to discontinue its support for the award.

The Malacological Society will continue support for molluscan research with a grant scheme to be known temporarily as the Mollusc Research Grants. The Council would favourably consider naming the award after a donor, or their nominee, if a substantial donation was made to the Endowment Fund.

AIM
To assist outstanding graduate students and others in undertaking research in malacology .

ELIGIBILITY
There are no restrictions on who may apply, but the committee granting the awards will generally give preference to candidates who are not employed as professional malacologists.

CONDITIONS

Up to $2,000 will be available annually and it can be granted as one or more awards. A further $1000 may be made available at the discretion of the Council if high quality applications are received and funds permit.
Grants will normally be made to assist in travel or the purchase of items of equipment, but in any event must be used for specific items identified in the research proposal.
Any project which plans to increase knowledge of Australasian molluscs will be eligible, but preference will be given to projects seeking to resolve problems in molluscan taxonomy or whole animal biology. Projects of a broad physiological or ecological nature in which molluscs are ancillary to the main aim of the project will be given low priority.
Successful applicants will be required to provide a report on their work at its completion, (or earlier if required by the Council), and a popular article for the Society's newsletter.

TO APPLY
Candidates are to supply:

A full curriculum vitae stating their age, educational qualifications, publications, current employment etc., and any other information which they feel may be appropriate.
A research proposal, listing title, aims, methods and potential costs, and estimated duration of project. Major items of expenditure must be fully itemised and costed.
Names and addresses of two referees to whom the committee may refer.
Four (4) copies of the application are to be addressed to:

Mollusc Research Grants

c/- Dr Mark Norman
Sciences
Museum Victoria
GPO Box 666, Melbourne, VIC 3001, Australia

CLOSING DATE: June 1st each year