Small Mammals Research Fellowship Program – Nepal

In Nepal, research on small mammals species is limited as most of the studies is focused on large mega charismatic flagship species. Small Mammals Conservation and Research Foundation (SMCRF), since its establishment, has been leading the research on these neglected species and contributing in filling the knowledge gap, initiating conservation actions on ground and influencing policies. They prioritize the research on species that lack baseline data, information on its natural history and more importantly on the small mammals outside the protected areas, which is still virgin area for the research.

SMCRF is dedicated to the conservation and research of biodiversity in Nepal with particular reference diversity and conservation of small mammals.

SMCRF takes this opportunity to call for the application of “Small Mammals Research Fellowship” for the year 2024 and join the cohort of energetic and outstanding fellows. All the interested candidates are encouraged to read the information carefully and apply for the research grant. This fellowship is not only providing the grant support but also technical support in addition including equipment and mentoring.

Thematic Areas

• Ecology
• Ecosystem Services
• Behavior

Key-species

• Flying Squirrels
• Small carnivores focusing Back-striped Weasel
• Small Cats focusing Marbled Cat

Priority Area

• Applicants are encouraged to select site/s within prioritized landscape given below:
  • Proposed Karnali Conservation Landscape and Kailash Conservation Landscape for flying squirrels
  • Kanchenjunga Conservation Landscape and Sacred Himalayan Landscape for small carnivores
  • Chitwan Annapurna Landscape and Sacred Himalayan Landscape for small cats

Funding Information

• Number of Grants: 2 (Two)
• Grant Amount: NPR 50,000.00 each

Eligibility Criteria

• M.Sc. (Thesis year/semester) students of universities in Nepal in following subjects but not limited to:
  • Zoology
  • Forestry
  • Environment Science
  • Natural Resource Management
  • Any other related subjects
• Note: Females, marginalized communities, permanently residing in remote areas and baseline lacking areas are encouraged to apply.

For more information, visit SMCRF.