Higher Education Bursaries

We are inviting applications from course leaders at Higher Education institutions to apply for up to the maximum amount of £30,000 to cover a period of three years, comprising £10,000 per year.

Please note, however, that the total funds will be divided between successful applications, so applicants may receive less than they applied for.

We invite institutions to determine how they would use the funding.  Ideally, we would like the funding to have the biggest impact as possible.  It is important that a commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusivity is also considered as part of the application. 

Funding can be used to support tuition fees or other course costs as determined by the institution.  How the funding is distributed and awarded will be determined by individual institutions.

Applications are open to course leaders at UK (Level 7) and ROI (NFQ Level 9) Higher Education institutions offering courses such as MA, MSc and MRes.

The course must contain 33% entomology content or more (for example 60 credits out of a 180 credit course).

Funding is not currently available for institutions based outside the UK or ROI.

Applications from individual students will not be accepted for this bursary.

Open for applications: 1 April – 15 May 2026.

Please complete the Higher Education Bursary Application Form.

Adjudication: Trustees of the Royal Entomological Society

Applications will be assessed against the following criteria:

1. Academic Quality and Relevance (30%)

Course Title and Content
The academic quality of the courses, including the depth and breadth of entomological content. Ensure the course meets the requirement of 33% entomology content.

Entomological Content Description
The detailed description of the entomological content covered in the course (module titles, topics, contact hours, and modes of teaching).

2. Impact and Outcomes (20%)

Impact Measurement
The institution’s plan for measuring the impact of the bursaries on students and the institution, including both short-term and long-term outcomes.

Communication of Outcomes
How the institution plans to communicate the outcomes and successes of the bursaries to the RES and the broader entomological community.

3. Financial Viability and Budgeting (10%)

Funds Requested and Breakdown
The detailed budget breakdown – ensuring the requested funds are used effectively and align with the stated goals, and support tuition fees or other course costs.

Administration of Bursaries
The institution’s plan for administering the bursaries, including the application process for students, the staff responsible, and the timing of payments.

4. Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) (20%)

EDI Commitment
How the institution plans to incorporate EDI considerations in distributing the bursaries to students.

Specific EDI Measures
The institution’s specific measures to promote EDI within the field of entomology, such as outreach and recruitment programs, inclusive curriculum, and support services for underrepresented groups.

5. Institutional Commitment and Collaboration (10%)

Development of Relationship with RES
The institution’s commitment to developing a long-term relationship with the RES.

Promotion of RES in relation to the bursary

The crediting and promoting the RES in course materials and inviting RES representatives to events.

Student Participation in RES Events
How the institution plans to encourage student participation in RES activities, such as the Student Forum and other RES events such as Insect Week.

6. Evaluation and Legacy (10%)

Long-Term Impact
A robust plan for evaluating the long-term impact of the bursaries on both students and the institution.

Legacy Planning
Will the bursaries be used to contribute to long term sustainability of entomology on your course?
e.g. will a bursary help ensure the viability of a course and/or modules within it?

Awardees are expected to provide a short report on the bursary in a format that suits you.

This may take the form of one or more of the following:

• Testimonials from students and/or project supervisors
• A video of students and/or project supervisors
• A short write-up
• Other appropriate formats

Maximum award: £30,000 over three years, comprising £10,000 per year.

Previously unsucessful applicants are welcome to reapply.

Successful applicants may not apply for additional HE Bursaries to run concurrently.

Applicants must be Course Leaders or similarly senior staff acting on behalf of their employer at a Higher Education Institute in the UK or Republic of Ireland.