About Organisation
The Explorers Club is an international not-for-profit organization founded in 1904 to advance scientific exploration, field research and the preservation of the instinct to explore. Its global membership includes scientists, researchers and explorers working across disciplines such as oceanography, archaeology, mountaineering, environmental science and planetary sciences. Members conduct hundreds of expeditions across continents, oceans and other frontiers. Through its grant programmes, The Explorers Club supports emerging researchers and explorers undertaking ambitious fieldwork that can advance scientific knowledge, deepen understanding of the environment and connect discoveries about the past with the future. Its programmes encourage interdisciplinary exploration and responsible field research.
About the Grant
The Rolex Explorers Club Grant supports young explorers conducting fieldwork that addresses a novel scientific, environmental or historical question. The programme is designed to help researchers undertake original field science capable of generating significant new understanding or impact. Awards are US$10,000 and can support fieldwork across disciplines including ecology, wildlife, botany, archaeology, earth sciences, marine and freshwater research, geography and paleontology. Applicants must present a clear scientific rationale, original research and a strong fieldwork component. The 2027 field-season application cycle is currently open, with submissions due 14 September 2026 at 6:00 PM ET.
Who can Apply?
The grant is intended for young explorers under the age of 35 conducting field research. Applicants can work in any relevant field-science discipline, provided the project addresses a novel scientific, environmental or historical question and includes a meaningful fieldwork component. Applicants must demonstrate a spirit of exploration, provide a clear scientific rationale and show that the proposed work is original and capable of producing significant new understanding or impact. Two letters of support are required and must be submitted through the application form. Required permits should be secured or their status explained. Research conducted in China and applications from Chinese citizens are not eligible.
How to Apply?
Complete the online Rolex Explorers Club Grant application and describe your project, fieldwork location, scientific objectives, methodology, expected outcomes and budget. Explain the project’s potential impact and provide information about your qualifications and research associates. Applicants must submit two letters of support through the application portal and address any required research permits and ethical considerations. Submit the completed application by 14 September 2026 at 6:00 PM ET.
Application Deadline
The application deadline is 14 September 2026
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
