Conservation research in this context is interpreted broadly and includes a range of disciplines and perspectives, for example biophysical sciences, the social sciences (including economics), and Te Ao Māori thinking.
It covers the biodiversity, visitor and heritage related responsibilities of the Department of Conservation (DOC).
The purpose of these scholarships is to help achieve New Zealand’s conservation goals.
2022 application round
Applications open: 1 August 2022
Applications close: 2 October 2022
Scholarship details
The scholarships are for Masters students undertaking the research component of their degree at an approved institution. Full-time and part-time students are eligible.
There are 11 DOC scholarships worth up to $15,000 each. DOC funds 10 scholarships and partners with Tiakina Kauri – Kauri Protection Agency within Biosecurity New Zealand who fund an extra scholarship focusing on kauri health.
Full-time students are funded for one year and part-time students are funded for up to two years.
Selection criteria
The selection committee awards scholarships based on the following criteria:
- Relevance of research topic to the achievement of DOC's and the relevant funding partners' research priorities.
- Relevance of the thesis topic to the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi.
- Whether the proposed research contributes to the relevant body of knowledge.
- Academic merit of the applicant.
- Genuine interest in research topic and evidence of commitment to conservation science from the applicant.
Research priorities
Research priorities are updated annually, the priorities for 2022 will be published by 1 August.
We welcome either a mainstream science and/or Mātauranga Māori approach to any of the research priorities.
Who can apply
Applications for the scholarship will be open to candidates:
- who are enrolled in, or eligible to enrol in, a full time or part time Masters degree in a New Zealand university or equivalent tertiary institution
- whose proposed course of study includes a minimum research component of 90 credits
- who will undertake research into a topic identified by DOC as a priority for conservation research.
How to apply
Scholarship applications for the 2023 year open 1 August and close 2 October 2022.
Apply on the Universities NZ scholarships website.
Guidance on how to apply is found on the Universities NZ website.
Previous application rounds
2021
2020
Contact
For queries about the research priorities or general enquiries, email DOC's Learning and Development Team: mzarich@doc.govt.nz
