The Emily B. Shane EBS) Award supports conservation-oriented, non-harmful* field research on free-ranging Odontocetes and Sirenians. The award honours Emily B. Shane (1924-1995), a fine amateur naturalist and dedicated conservationist. Funds are awarded to projects which focus on odontocetes and sirenians, especially those aimed at habitat and species conservation. Research that also impacts a local human community in terms of increased public awareness, capacity building, or education may be given special consideration. The award, given annually, will total approximately US$10,000. The award committee may opt to divide the award among two or more applicants. Although awards will be made for no more than one year at a time, applicants may apply more than once for the same project. Due Date: Applications are to be submitted by 31 March 2016 (midnight GMT). No application shall be accepted after the deadline. Proposals must be submitted to the Awards Chair, Lindsay Porter <Lindsay.jp@gmail.com> and the subject line must state “EBS Award 2016”. Evaluation Criteria Eligibility: The award is available to students and other researchers who are members of the Marine Mammal Society and meet the evaluation criteria. The application should be submitted by the person conducting the research. The application must include the following materials; · - A proposal, not exceeding three pages in length (Times font, 12 point type, single space, 2 cm margins). Briefly outline the proposed research, objectives of the study, methods, role of the proposed work in conservation, the time period for the research, person(s) conducting the field research and role of each, and literature cited. - A budget, including other funding applied for, or already held, for the proposed research. Funding requests should be for direct field research expenses only. - Research permits or authorisation from appropriate authorities (or copies of application if permits not yet finalised) - A current C.V. of the applicant, up to three pages in length. · - Three references with e-mail address, phone number, and relationship to applicant. - For students, the supervisor must provide a letter of support Award recipient(s) will be announced by 30 June 2016. *Non-harmful research is that which poses a minimal risk to the health and life of an individual animal and to other species within the ecosystem. Research that entails capture or invasive techniques is acceptable only if carried out by competent, experienced personnel and provides clear benefits in terms of conservation and scientific knowledge. Applicant must document previous experience and outcomes