The Cave Science and Technology Research Fund (CSTRF) Grant

The Cave Science and Technology Research Fund (CSTRF) Grant

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: The British Cave Research Association
Amount: Up to £5,000
Last Updated: January 08, 2026

Summary

The Cave Science and Technology Research Fund (CSTRF) Grant, managed by the British Cave Research Association, supports innovative research in cave science, including themes such as speleogenesis, archaeology, biology, and technology. It aims to encourage cavers, especially those with limited institutional support, to engage in significant research activities. Eligible projects can receive funding for consumables, travel, and scientific report preparation, highlighting the importance of caves in both scientific exploration and understanding.

Overview

NOTE:  Applications will usually be reviewed in April, August and December. Applicants should bear in mind that the awards panel is unlikely to meet more frequently than four-monthly intervals but, if your application is for less than £200, we may be able to 'fast-track' it. The BCRA Cave Science policy focuses on four major themes: speleogenesisarchaeology/palaeontologybiologytechnology However, worthwhile projects in other areas of research will also be considered. At the core of our intentions is a desire to make the caving community and the scientific community more aware of the scientific importance of caves - and the synergy between exploration and science. Objectives of the Fund To encourage research activity by cavers including those who may have no (or limited) support from research establishments - you don't have to be an expert, but it helps if you discuss your ideas with one. We might be able to help in providing you with a contact.To stimulate new research which could contribute significantly to any aspect of caving - i.e. beyond the traditional archaeological, earth and life sciences and into the technologies.To support research that is unusual, particularly innovative, or likely to be of great interest or benefit to cavers.To assist in the purchase of consumable items or scientific equipment without which it would be impossible to carry out or complete a research project.To provide a contribution to funds for travel in association with fieldwork, or to visit laboratories that can provide essential facilities.To provide financial support for the preparation of scientific reports and presentations.To raise interest in caves and to further our understanding of them and the technologies employed to enter and explore them.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. The principal investigator(s) must be individual members of BCRA at the time of the application, and must remain so during the period of the award.Travel specifically associated with the project (e.g. UK fieldwork, visits to laboratories with essential facilities etc.) is eligible for funding. You must be a member of this organization to apply for this award - become a member. You must be an individual member of BCRA. This means that you must hold Individual Membership of BCA, and have paid the supplement to join BCRA. Your BCA membership card will state “includes BCRA”.

Ineligibility

Ineligible expenses are: Salaries, tuition fees and similar remuneration of the applicants, their teams and assistants. Attendance at conferences, and associated travelling expenses. Travel to or from the applicant’s usual/local caving area, and expedition travelling expensed.Purchase or maintenance of personal caving equipment, clothing or vehicles.