Sepkoski Grants
Forecasted
Sepkoski Grants support individual paleontologists with research funding across paleontology and paleobiology, carrying forward the founder’s commitment to supporting paleontology worldwide.
Funder: The Paleontological Society
Due Dates (Anticipated): March 2027 (Application and recommendation letters)
Funding Amounts: US $1,000 per award; up to 25 grants
Summary: Supports individual paleontologists in eligible regions conducting research in any field of paleontology or paleobiology.
Key Information: Beginning in 2026, individuals may receive a grant only every other year at most.
Description
The Paleontological Society administers Sepkoski Grants through its International Research Program (PalSIRP), with funding jointly provided by the Society, the Palaeontological Association, and the Sociedad Española de Paleontologia. The program supports research in any field of paleontology and paleobiology by paleontologists living in specified regions worldwide, from graduate students through professionals and active retirees. A committee of paleontologists selects grantees based on the quality and feasibility of their proposed research.
The grants honor Dr. J. John Sepkoski, Jr., the program’s founder, and his commitment to supporting paleontology worldwide. Supported projects encompass fossil diversity, anatomy, taxonomy, evolution, paleoecology, and reconstruction of past environments. Applicants may consult the Journal of Paleontology as a guide to acceptable research topics.
