Bannister Student Grant

Applications are invited for the Jennifer & Peter Bannister Student Grant for Botanical Research, from the Botanical Society of Otago (BSO), to assist a student studying for the degree of PhD, MSc, BSc (Hons) or B. Appl. Sci. in any tertiary institution in New Zealand, whose thesis project deals with some aspect of New Zealand's flora and vegetation. Priority will be given to projects relevant to the Otago and Southland regions.

The research project to be supported will be chosen on the basis of appropriateness to the objectives of the BSO, namely to encourage the study of botany, and to stimulate public interest in the plant life of New Zealand.

Funds of up to $2,000 per year (contingent on available funding) will be provided directly to the successful student(s) as a contribution to research-related expenses associated with the project.

Application closing date: 31 March 2025

Rules

  1. The Fund will be used to assist a student or students studying for the degree of PhD, MSc, BSc (Hons) or B. Appl. Sci. in any tertiary institution in New Zealand whose projects deal with some aspect of New Zealand's flora and vegetation. Priority will be given to projects relevant to or based in the Otago or Southland region.
  2. The research projects to be supported will be chosen on their appropriateness to the objectives of the BSO, namely to encourage the study of botany, and to stimulate public interest in the plant life of New Zealand. The financial needs of a particular student may also be taken into account.
  3. The grant is intended to defray costs associated with lab work or fieldwork (including herbarium visits). Any funds unexpended on completion of thesis practical work shall be returned to the Society.
  4. The successful applicant(s) will be chosen by a three-person panel appointed by the Botanical Society of Otago committee within one month of the closing date for applications.
  5. Grants will generally be made annually, with the proviso that no grant need be made if the Committee so decides.
  6. Grants will normally be made for one year only to any individual, although in exceptional circumstances a further award may be made for a subsequent year.
  7. Each recipient of a grant will be required to provide a brief written report for the BSO newsletter and encouraged to present a talk to the BSO outlining the outcome of their project.
  8. The applicant needs to be a current member of the BSO.

Application Form

The application form contains further information and contact information.