Harvard University $4,000 Ashton Award For Student Research

Applications are now open for the prestigious Harvard University $4,000 Ashton Award for Student Research. This unique opportunity is available to students from universities worldwide, offering funding and support for advanced research in the field of Asian tropical forest biology.

The Ashton Award, established through the generosity of Professor Peter Ashton and Mary Ashton, is a cornerstone of the Arnold Arboretum’s mission to foster innovative and impactful research. It provides financial resources to exceptional students undertaking advanced undergraduate or graduate studies, enabling them to pursue meaningful investigations that advance knowledge and conservation efforts in one of the world’s most vital ecosystems.

About the Ashton Award for Student Research

The Ashton Award is dedicated to promoting high-quality, impactful research in Asian tropical forest biology. By supporting advanced undergraduate and graduate students, the award seeks to enhance understanding of tropical forests and contribute to global efforts to address environmental and ecological challenges.

With a grant of up to $4,000, the award is designed to cover critical research expenses, including travel, equipment, and other project-related costs. This funding ensures that recipients can focus on conducting innovative and rigorous research aligned with the Arnold Arboretum’s overarching mission.

The program values academic excellence, creativity, and a commitment to environmental stewardship, offering recipients access to the Arboretum’s extensive resources and expertise.

Eligibility Criteria

The Ashton Award for Student Research is open to:

Advanced Undergraduate and Graduate Students: Eligible applicants must be actively pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies and demonstrate a strong interest in Asian tropical forest biology.
Global Applicants: Students from universities across the world are encouraged to apply. There are no restrictions based on citizenship or institutional affiliation.

Eligible Fields

The award is specifically tailored to support studies in Asian tropical forest biology. Research topics may include, but are not limited to:

Forest ecology and biodiversity
Conservation strategies
Climate change impacts on tropical ecosystems

Tropical forest restoration and management
Plant-animal interactions within tropical forests

Projects should align with the mission of the Arnold Arboretum, which is dedicated to advancing knowledge and fostering the preservation of plant biodiversity.

Applicants must meet the following criteria to be considered for the Ashton Award:

Enrollment Status: Must be an advanced undergraduate or graduate student.
Global Eligibility: Open to students from any country and institution. Applicants are not required to be U.S. citizens or affiliated with U.S. institutions.

Relevant Field: Research must focus on topics related to Asian tropical forest biology.

Documents Required

To apply for the Ashton Award, candidates must submit a complete application package that includes:

Cover Letter: A brief introduction outlining the applicant’s background, academic qualifications, and interest in the award.

Research Statement: A 1-2 page document detailing the proposed project, including objectives, methodologies, collaborators, and alignment with the Arnold Arboretum’s mission.
Research Budget: A 1-page breakdown of expected expenses, including travel, equipment, and other research costs.
Project Timeline: A clear timeline highlighting key milestones, including the start and end dates of the project.

Curriculum Vitae (CV): An updated CV showcasing academic achievements, relevant research experience, and extracurricular activities.
Letters of Recommendation: Two letters of recommendation submitted directly by referees who can attest to the applicant’s qualifications and potential for success in the proposed research.

Benefits of the Ashton Award

Recipients of the Ashton Award gain access to a wide range of benefits designed to support their academic and professional growth:

Funding: A grant of up to $4,000 to cover research-related expenses, including travel, equipment, and supplies.
Research Opportunities: An unparalleled opportunity to advance studies in Asian tropical forest biology and contribute to global ecological knowledge.
Access to Resources: Utilize the Arnold Arboretum’s extensive resources, including expertise and support from leading researchers.

Professional Development: Gain recognition and credibility as a recipient of a prestigious research award, enhancing future career opportunities.

The Ashton Award provides an extraordinary platform for students passionate about tropical forest biology to conduct transformative research. With its financial support, access to world-class resources, and alignment with the Arnold Arboretum’s mission, this award represents a significant step toward academic and professional excellence.

How to Apply

Note: Application Deadline: February 1, 2025
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered, so applicants are encouraged to submit their materials well before the deadline.

To apply for the Harvard University $4,000 Ashton Award for Student Research: