Mazama Research Grant Program

The Mazamas is committed to exploring and preserving mountain environments in the Pacific Northwest through research grants. These grants support nonprofit research that aligns with the Mazamas’ mission, encouraging proposals from graduate and undergraduate students. Successful applicants often conduct field studies that enhance understanding of the region's natural features. Notably, the Mazamas also welcome innovative research ideas that may fall outside traditional grant guidelines, promoting a diverse range of scientific inquiry.

Background
The Mazama Research Grant Program funds scientific research that advances our understanding of mountain environments and human interactions with these landscapes. Since its inception, the program has awarded grants typically ranging from $750 to $2,500 to support research projects across diverse disciplines, including glaciology, ecology, geology, microbiology, and high-altitude medicine.
With a particular focus on Pacific Northwest mountain regions, the program enables researchers from universities and scientific institutions to conduct groundbreaking studies on topics ranging from climate change impacts on glaciers to the discovery of extremophile bacteria in volcanic environments. By supporting both established scientists and early-career researchers, the program has helped generate valuable scientific knowledge about mountain ecosystems, their geological features, and human relationships with these environments.

Eligibility

Any individual conducting nonprofit research consistent with the interests and activities of the Mazamas is eligible to submit a proposal.Successful applicants are students, educators, or researchers performing field studies in the Pacific Northwest. Applicants need not be Mazama members. Any funds unused within one year shall be returned to the Mazamas.