Science Outreach Award Grant

The Science Outreach Award, presented by the Canadian Society of Zoologists, acknowledges individuals or groups enhancing public understanding of zoology through effective science communication and outreach. This award encourages diverse educational efforts, including in-person events and digital media, to engage audiences who may not otherwise encounter zoological topics. Recipients receive a cash prize and a scroll, promoting continued advocacy in the field. Up to two awards are granted annually, highlighting sustained contributions to science outreach.

This award is intended to recognize efforts of an individual or a group toward increased public awareness of, and/or education about, environmental, biological or zoological topics through science communication and/or outreach efforts broadly conceived. Science advocacy is also recognized independently and need not be an additional requirement. This may include but is not limited to in-person events and activities, policy advocacy, or example(s) of science communication via online forums including social media and/or legacy media outlets. Up to TWO awards may be given annually.
Objectives
This award is intended to recognize efforts toward increased public awareness of, and/or education about, environmental, biological or zoological topics through science communication and/or outreach efforts broadly conceived. Science advocacy is also recognized independently and need not be an additional requirement. This may include but is not limited to in-person events, online forums including social media outlets, and legacy media outlets. Science advocacy may also be considered within the fields of the society.
Criteria
evaluation should clearly explain how the applicant meets one or more of the following:
The communication or activity must be to or with a general audience. Communications in venues targeted primarily at a scientific audience (e.g. ‘inside JEB’ and News & Views’ or ‘Commentary’ articles in journals) as well as press releases are not encouraged.The quality and significance of the individual’s or team of individuals’ contributions to dissemination and/or advocacy of science.The reach of the activities in terms of the size and diversity of the audience and the likelihood of reaching an audience that might not otherwise be exposed to Zoology.The impact of the activities on the target audience.Future outcomes of the educational activities beyond the immediate.The committee will favour a sustained body of work over a single achievement.
Award(s)
The award comprises a $300 cash prize and a scroll. If the recipient is not already a member of the Canadian Society of Zoologists, a 1-year free membership will be awarded by the Society.
Maximum of two per year. The award need not be made every year. Funded through ZET.

Eligibility

The award is intended to recognize efforts of an individual or a group toward increased public awareness of, and/or education about, environmental, biological or zoological topics through science communication and/or outreach efforts broadly conceived.