Frequently asked questions
Questions relating to the 2025 Graduate Researchers Award.
Does my award submission have to present new research?
No, nominees are able to submit research which has been or is in the process of being completed as part of master's or PhD studies.
Who can be nominated for the award?
Master's or PhD students currently enrolled in a university graduate program. Nominees must either be citizens of a GBIF member country or students at an institution located in a GBIF member country. This award is not open to post-doctoral researchers, see the Ebbe Nielsen Challenge for eligibility.
Where is the list of GBIF member countries?
You can find a list of GBIF Voting and Associate Participants here along with contact details of node managers and head of delegations.
What is the deadline for award submission?
The deadline for award submissions to the GBIF Secretariat is 27 June 2025 (23:59 UTC +2), however nominations must be submitted to the node manager or head of delegation of a GBIF Voting and Associate Participant country. Deadlines for each node will be published on their individual websites as well as being updated on GBIF.org as they are announced.
How many letters of support do I need to support my application?
Only one letter of support is required, however nominees may optionally choose to include additional (to a maximum of three letters of support) if it will strengthen their application.
I applied for the Graduate Researchers Award previously but was not successful, can I re-apply again?
Yes, as long as you still meet the eligibility criteria.
Will I receive feedback on my application?
It is at the discretion of node managers or head of delegations of GBIF member countries as to whether feedback on individual applications is provided. The GBIF Secretariat will not provide individual feedback on finalist award submissions.
What are the obligations of award winners?
Award winners are expected to acknowledge GBIF's support when disseminating their research findings. Winners are also expected to participate in communication and outreach activities in the following months of their award win. These activities include (but are not limited to) providing a short video recording describing their research which will be presented at the 32nd GBIF Governing Board meeting in October 2025, participating in a GBIF Data Use Club seminar and social media communications.