Applications open for Rolex Explorers Club Grant Program
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The Explorers Club has launched its Rolex Explorers Club Grant Program for extraordinary young explorers to promote the significant role that exploration plays in addressing cutting-edge scientific questions.
This program is open to all field science disciplines. In addition to demonstrating a spirit of exploration, candidates must put forward a project or research proposal that has a clear scientific rationale, represents original work, and has the potential for significant impact or new understanding. Historically, awards have been given in the amount of $10,000. Open to explorers conducting fieldwork to address a novel scientific, environmental, or historic question.
Applications are currently being accepted for this unique program that enables emerging explorers to advance their fieldwork through research projects with strong scientific foundations. The grant is designed to support projects that are original and impactful, fostering new understanding and exploration.
Applicants are encouraged to download the form as a worksheet before beginning to fill it in online. Once ready to submit, it is advisable to allow at least 45 minutes to complete the application in one sitting, as the system will not save information if the browser is closed.
Applicants should keep their project title concise and avoid excessive technical language to ensure clarity for reviewers from diverse backgrounds. While projects may be multidisciplinary, candidates are asked to identify the predominant category, with opportunities later in the application to provide more details.
The project description should briefly present background, goals, methodologies, intended outcomes, and potential cultural or environmental impact, while avoiding jargon and abbreviations. Supplementary materials such as images, videos, and maps may be uploaded to strengthen the application. Two letters of support are required and should be submitted through the online system to ensure a complete application.
Ethical concerns must be addressed directly, with applicants outlining any potential issues anticipated during
xpedition. Permits are also expected to be secured for fieldwork. Candidates should explain the status of permits in their application and submit copies when available, either with the application or later by email to the grants team.
It is important to note that The Explorers Club cannot consider proposals for work being conducted in China or by Chinese citizens due to regulatory restrictions. The deadline to apply is Monday, October 13, 2025, at 6:00 PM EST.
