Sagehen Creek Field Station Graduate Student Research Grant

Sagehen Creek Field Station Graduate Student Research Grant

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: Natural Reserve System- University of California
Amount: Up to US $1,500
Last Updated: February 24, 2026

Summary

The Sagehen Creek Field Station Graduate Student Research Grant supports graduate students conducting field research in the unique montane ecosystems of the northern Sierra Nevada. This grant offsets costs related to reserve user fees, research supplies, and travel expenses. Two awards of up to $1,500 each will be granted for the 2025 field season, with additional funds for those mentoring undergraduate researchers. It aims to facilitate impactful ecological studies and foster educational experiences.

Overview

About Us Our Mission The mission of the University of California Natural Reserve System (UCNRS) is to contribute to the understanding and wise stewardship of the Earth and its natural systems by supporting university-level teaching, research, and public service at protected natural areas throughout California. Our Impact Established in 1965, the reserves encompass over 47,000 acres of diverse habitats from the ocean to the mountains to the inland deserts. Today, the UCNRS is a network of 42 protected natural areas located throughout California. This unique library of ecosystems provides unparalleled opportunities for scientific inquiry and pedagogy. As the largest university-administered reserve system in the world, we are able to offer insight into the ongoing challenges to the stewardship of natural lands experiencing rapid environmental change. These reserves are used by thousands of visitors each year. Our team at UC Berkeley coordinates with colleagues at the other UC campuses, providing opportunities for research for scientists from across the globe as well as transformative experiences for students and members of the public. Sagehen Creek Field Station Graduate Student Research Grant The Sagehen Creek Field Station & Chickering American River Reserve support field-based research in the diverse montane ecosystems of the northern Sierra Nevada. These reserves provide opportunities for studies in ecology, hydrology, fire science, climate change, geology, and forest dynamics. In addition to well-equipped research facilities, researchers benefit from access to long-term environmental datasets and an active scientific community. Purpose The Sagehen Research Grant is intended to offset costs associated with conducting field research at Sagehen Creek Field Station and/or Chickering American River Reserve. Funds may be used for reserve user fees (housing, lab space, etc.), necessary research supplies, and a gas supplement for travel to and from the reserve and field sites. Award Amount Two awards of up to $1,500 each will be made for the 2025 field season. Additionally, graduate students who mentor an undergraduate researcher as part of their project will receive an extra $500 to support the mentee’s involvement. Funds will be held in a UC Berkeley account and may only be used for approved research-related expenses.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. This grant is open to graduate students (M.S. and Ph.D.) conducting research at Sagehen Creek Field Station and/or Chickering American River Reserve. Applicants must be enrolled in a University of California (UC) campus while conducting their research. For summer research, enrollment in the preceding spring term and clear intent to enroll in the fall is acceptable.