Goldman Undergraduate Research Travel Grants

Goldman Undergraduate Research Travel Grants are offered annually by the Davis Center for Russian and Eurasian Studies. Grants may cover up to $5,000 towards travel and living expenses for students carrying out independent research on topics in Russian and Eurasian studies. Depending on destination, grant recipients may also receive logistical assistance from our contacts within the region. For information on possibilities for assistance, please email Donna Griesenbeck.

Eligibility
Full-time enrolled undergraduate students at Harvard, Wellesley, and Wheaton colleges who are pursuing independent research on topics in Russian and Eurasian studies. Preference is given to juniors doing research for the senior thesis.

Requirements
Grant recipients are expected to spend at least six to eight weeks in Russia, Eastern Europe, and/or Central Asia carrying out a research project. Exceptions to the minimum time requirement may be granted only by written petition with strong support from the student's thesis advisor. Because the Goldman grants typically do not cover 100% of costs associated with a research trip, applicants are expected to seek alternate funding sources. Harvard applicants should visit the Office of Career Services Fellowships web page or browse the Funding Sources Database to identify other options. In particular, Harvard students embarking on a research trip of eight weeks or more should apply for the new David Rockefeller International Experience Grants.

Upon completion of the research trip, grant recipients submit a brief narrative report (1-3 pages) summarizing their accomplishments, any obstacles they encountered, and any changes to the scope of their project as a result of the trip. A budget report is also required. Grant recipients are also expected to present their findings at the Undergraduate Colloquium on Russian and Eurasian Studies, hosted each spring by the Davis Center.

Application Procedure

A complete application consists of the following:

• A completed printout of the Common Application for Research and Travel*
  
• A research proposal of no more than 750 words
  
• A current one-page resume
  
• A current official college transcript (through the fall term)
  
• Two letters of recommendation, included with the application in a sealed, signed envelope, or sent directly to the Davis Center, 1730 Cambridge Street, 3rd Floor, Cambridge, MA 02138.

Note: Do not staple any materials; use paper clips or binder clips only.

Completed grant applications will be accepted on Friday, February 27, 2009, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. in CGIS South, Room S030, 1730 Cambridge Street. Email Donna Griesenbeck if you are not able to deliver the application in person on that date.

*Wellesley and Wheaton applicants: email Donna Griesenbeck for special instructions.

View list of recent awardees >>

Contact: Donna Griesenbeck, griesenb@fas.harvard.edu, 617.495.1194.