Contact: Katie Mosher, kmosher@ncsu.edu, 919-515-9069

North Carolina Sea Grant is seeking research proposals to meet key needs identified by state agencies that manage natural resources.

The new funding opportunity came from discussions with directors of various agencies, and review of the state’s Coastal Habitat Protection Plan. Topics include oysters, other shellfish, blue crabs and coastal habitats.

“With limited funding, we recognize up front that this initial opportunity will cover a small percentage of the vast list of research needs from our agency partners,” explains John Fear, North Carolina Sea Grant’s deputy director. “It is our hope that needs not included at this time will be addressed in future research competitions.”

The projects can be just one year in length. Researchers can request up to $60,000 from Sea Grant. Matching funds are encouraged but not required. No indirect costs may be included in the budgets.

Proposals require advance discussions with representative of a state agency that will use the results. Submissions are due by 5 p.m. on Oct. 7 via the eSeaGrant online portal: go.ncsu.edu/ncesg.

For more information and a link to the full request for proposals, go online to ncseagrant.ncsu.edu/funding-opps and check for Open Opportunities.