Ohio State Agroecosystem Management Program (AMP) Graduate Research Seed Grant Program

The purpose of the OSU Agroecosystem Management Program (AMP) is to ensure that future farming and food systems improve quality of life for all people by being socially and economically viable, just and equitable, biodiverse, sustainable, and resilient. We seek to improve agroecosystems and their impact on society, the economy, and the environment. To achieve this goal, AMP programs seek to deepen connections between people, enhance our understanding of agroecosystems, and expand the use of agroecological approaches to farming.

AMP has established a Graduate Student Research Seed Grant Program that is designed to empower and enable OSU graduate students to conduct research that builds the knowledge base required to accelerate transitions towards healthier and more equitable agroecosystems.
Grant Program Description

This program provides up to $5,000 to cover expenses associated with individual or group OSU graduate student research projects that advance our understanding of agroecosystem management of farming and food systems. The award can defray the costs of data collection and analysis, including materials, analytical services, travel, and honoraria for research participants, but cannot be used for student stipends, tuition, or fees.

We particularly encourage interdisciplinary and participatory research approaches that utilize and benefit from complementary forms of knowledge and expertise, and benefit from collaboration with farmers and food system actors.

Proposal format

• Cover letter (template attached)
• Project narrative including background and justification, research question(s), proposed methods, and timeline (1500 words, not including bibliography)
• Description of how project contributes to mission of AMP (250 words)
• Proposed budget and budget justification (template attached)
• Letter(s) of support from graduate advisor(s)
• Optional: letters of collaboration from external partners

Logistics

• Deadline is February 1st.
• Submission forms available on the AMP website amp.osu.edu.
• Funds will be administered by the Agroecosystem Management Program.
• The target date for notification of awards is March 1st.

Review Process

• A review committee of 3 OSU faculty will evaluate and rank proposals within 4 weeks of submission deadline.
• Criteria for selection:
  • Feasibility and impact of proposed research
  • Contribution to AMP vision
• Connection to AMP affiliated faculty preferred.