Sara Ruane (2022 Biota Awardee) at work in her lab at the Field Museum, Chicago, Illinois.
FOR LEADERS IN BIODIVERSITY SCIENCE
The Biota Awards funds early-career researchers who seek to restore, protect and conserve biodiversity in the Chicago region and around the world.
Humans, animals and plants depend on healthy, thriving ecosystems. Yet, many human activities deplete our environment of the biodiversity that we need to survive. Understanding, protecting and restoring biodiversity is vital for clean air, fresh water, and fertile land for food.
Chicago is a densely populated city surrounded by diverse and rare ecosystems, including remnant prairie, wetlands, and one of the largest bodies of freshwater. While threats to biodiversity in our region are vast, the potential solutions are just as expansive. Through the Biota Awards, Walder Foundation funds creative thinkers to explore new solutions to restore and preserve our ecosystems. The Foundation promotes the long-term sustainability of the natural environment by addressing socio-environmental challenges such as climate, water, food, and health.
Applications are closed for the 2024 Biota Awards.
Sign up to be notified when applications open for the 2025 Awards.
CONTACT INFORMATION
For clarification about research priorities, eligibility, or scientific requirements, please contact biotaawards@walderfoundation.org.
Walder Foundation is committed to diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion. We encourage applicants from underrepresented backgrounds and projects that improve outcomes for those from underrepresented backgrounds.