The Society for Marine Mammalogy (SMM), established in 1981, is an international non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the global understanding of marine mammal science. The Society’s mission is to enhance the significance and impact of marine mammal research in education, conservation, and resource management. SMM serves as a global platform for scientists, students, and professionals working in the field, fostering collaboration, sharing of knowledge, and professional development. It organizes biennial conferences, publishes the peer-reviewed journal Marine Mammal Science, and provides various forms of support to researchers worldwide. The Society emphasizes the importance of inclusive participation, capacity building, and the integration of scientific findings into policy and conservation efforts. By creating opportunities for researchers from developing countries and regions with limited funding access, SMM is working towards a more equitable and representative scientific community. Through initiatives such as travel grants, small research funding, and mentorship, the Society not only promotes excellence in marine mammalogy but also cultivates a supportive and diverse network of marine mammal scientists. SMM’s efforts reflect a long-standing commitment to scientific advancement, conservation impact, and global inclusivity, ensuring that researchers from all backgrounds can contribute meaningfully to the field.

The Eric A. Ramos Small Grants in Aid of Research (SGIAR), established in 1999 by the Society for Marine Mammalogy, aims to support marine mammal research in regions with limited access to research funding. In 2024, the program was renamed to honor Dr. Eric A. Ramos, a passionate advocate for mentorship, inclusivity, and early-career researchers. His legacy now lives on through this grant, which seeks to empower the next generation of marine mammal scientists. The grant provides individual awards of up to $2,000 (USD) for a one-year research period. Applicants may reapply in future cycles if they fulfill prior award obligations. Preference is given to those who have not previously received funding. Grantees whose SMM-funded research is accepted for presentation at an SMM biennial conference will also receive $500 toward travel expenses. Funding is intended to cover direct field research costs, including equipment, site travel, and essential project components, with up to 25% permitted for stipends. Conference fees and indirect costs are not eligible. This grant plays a vital role in supporting impactful, on-the-ground research and strengthening marine mammal science in underrepresented regions, particularly across Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Pacific Islands, and former USSR countries.