[Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University](https://arboretum.harvard.edu)

February 1, 2026: Full application submission deadline | February 1, 2026: Recommendation letters submission deadline

Up to $4,000 per award; typically for research expenses.

Supports graduate and advanced undergraduate student research on Asian tropical forest biology.

--- ## Description The Ashton Award for Student Research provides funding to graduate and advanced undergraduate students conducting research on Asian tropical forest biology. The program, administered by the Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University, aims to foster student-led projects that advance understanding of these unique ecosystems. Awards are intended to cover research expenses, including travel, supplies, and other project-related costs. --- ## Due Dates - **February 1, 2026:** Full application submission deadline - **February 1, 2026:** Recommendation letters submission deadline (each referee must upload their letter by February 1) --- ## Funding Amount - Awards of up to **$4,000** per recipient. - Funding is intended to support research expenses associated with the proposed project. --- ## Eligibility - Open to **graduate students** and **advanced undergraduate students**. - Applicants are **not** required to be affiliated with a US university or be US citizens; international students are eligible. - Research focus must be on **Asian tropical forest biology**. - The award is competitive; selection is based on the applicant’s academic background, research readiness, quality and relevance of the proposed project. --- ## Application Process - **Application Period:** Opens November 5 and closes February 1. - **Submission:** Applications must be submitted online through the [Arnold Arboretum application portal](https://arboretumscholars.communityforce.com/Funds/Search.aspx). - **Required materials:** - Cover letter - 1–2 page research statement (including collaborators and references) - Simple, 1-page research budget - Project timeline (with anticipated start/end dates) - Curriculum vitae (CV) - Two letters of recommendation (referees upload directly via a system-generated link) - Applicants should notify referees in advance to expect an email from Admin@communityforce.com with submission instructions. --- ## Additional Information - The award is made possible by the Peter and Mary Ashton Training Fund. - For questions about the award, Arboretum resources, or the application process, contact the selection committee at [arbscholars@fas.harvard.edu](mailto:arbscholars@fas.harvard.edu). --- ## External Links - [Program Overview & Application Instructions](https://arboretum.harvard.edu/research/programs-and-opportunities/ashton-award-for-student-research/) - [Online Application Portal](https://arboretumscholars.communityforce.com/Funds/Search.aspx) - [Arnold Arboretum Research Programs](https://arboretum.harvard.edu/research/programs-and-opportunities/) --- ## Contact Information | Contact | Email | Phone | |-------------------|-----------------------------------------------|----------------| | Arnold Arboretum | [arbscholars@fas.harvard.edu](mailto:arbscholars@fas.harvard.edu) | 617.384.5454 | | General Inquiries | [arbweb@arnarb.harvard.edu](mailto:arbweb@arnarb.harvard.edu) | |

Ashton Award for Student Research - Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University

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