Member stations can take advantage of our many programs and funding opportunities!
OBFS - Maxwell Hanrahan Field Biology and Earth Science Grants
OBFS has partnered with the Maxwell Hanrahan Foundation to provide monies to field stations for graduate students and postdoctoral researchers studying field biology as well as post-graduate/early career researchers who are studying earth science subjects at field stations. Member stations in good standing should look for the annual call for applications on the OBFS listserv - the 2026 proposals were due in early March. Look here, at the OBFS calendar, or the OBFS listserv for the 2027 application due dates.
OBFS Station Exchange Program (SXP)
The Station Exchange Program provides mini travel awards for field station staff to visit other field stations in the OBFS network for shadowing, cross-training, and mentoring opportunities. Reciprocal (two-way) field station visits are highly encouraged and will receive priority. Look for announcements via the OBFS listserv.
The International Matching Program
Brings member stations together for three years (or longer) so they can develop a project or product that will ultimately benefit the broader OBFS community. If you want to work with other stations navigating similar challenges this is a great opportunity!!
The Mini-Grant Program
Member stations and individual members may submit one proposal/year, up to $5000, for projects that complement the strategic plan, help achieve the plan's goals and objectives, and advance the mission of OBFS. Learn more about the program here.
AIBS Congressional Visit Day
OBFS collaborates with the American Institute of Biological Sciences (AIBS) annually to sponsor a few OBFS members to an in-person training and advocacy opportunity on Capitol Hill in Washington D.C. The call for OBFS participants goes out to the OBFS listserv around February each year for the late-April trip to D.C. Find out more about all of OBFS' Advocacy efforts or read a highlight from the visit day here!
International and Early Career/Student Travel Awards
These awards support attendance at the OBFS Annual Meeting for international and early career/student members. Contact the International Committee at international@obfs.org with questions. Calls for applicants will be sent via the OBFS listserv.
Virtual Cafés
One hour conversations - bring your choice of drink!
- Dates, times, and links are announced on the listserv and posted as an event on the OBFS calendar.
- Field station presentations are encouraged as are Speaker Series; consider using the program for region-specific topics!
- All Cafés are in English and Spanish.
- Let the International Committee know if you have some ideas or are interested in being featured. Email us at international@obfs.org.