Special Projects Fund

The Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior program offers a special project fund for graduate students seeking to build skills in areas not included in a typical graduate curriculum.

Let’s say you want to learn about project management, or science communication, or entrepreneurship. Or maybe you want to become a better photographer, or software developer, or public speaker.

From video storytelling to science policy to best practices in mentoring, EEB is open to your proposals.

The EEB special project fund provides grants ranging from $500 to $2000 for student-initiated projects that augment your skillset beyond regular coursework and research.

Applicants must identify and have connected with a potential mentor/collaborator (faculty member, MSU staffer, or other professional) with knowledge or experience related to the student’s project and access to other appropriate contacts in the proposed topic area. 

The award may be used to pay for courses, workshops (in person or online), or materials toward the proposed project.

Note: Students interested in research travel funds are encouraged to apply for a Professional Horizons Grant: https://eeb.msu.edu/graduate-program/funding.aspx

How to apply

Applicants must be current EEB graduate students in good standing. To complete the application, you will need to submit a detailed description of the activity or project that you are planning, along with a timeline and a budget. Before you apply, please email Robin Smith and Daniel Trego to discuss potential mentors and check if your project idea is a good fit.

Applications are considered on a rolling basis as funds are available. Decisions will be made within three weeks of receipt. To apply, submit the following information to Robin Smith and Daniel Trego: 

• Mentor/Collaborator Information (name, position, email)
• Project description (1 page)

The project description should explicitly address how the proposed project will help further your academic or professional development, as well as anticipated deliverables and work produced. Please include any planning or preparation that have already been completed.

• Timeline

When will you carry out the project? 

• Budget

Provide an itemized budget that outlines estimated expenses. If the funds requested cover only part of the project costs, please specify any additional project costs and how they will be covered.