Introduction
The Australasian Institute for Maritime Archaeology (AIMA) is a group of individuals with an interest in furthering the maritime archaeology profession, and the aims of programs and projects in Australasia and in other parts of the world. It comprises maritime archaeologists, historians, materials conservators, the general public, including sport divers, with a keen interest in the subject, museums and educational bodies.
The objectives of AIMA are to:
- undertake scientific research in the field of maritime archaeology;
- promote the advancement of the field of maritime archaeology;
- promote international cooperation in the excavation of maritime archaeological sites and the research and studies related to this field;
- cooperate with State and federal agencies involved in the implementation of the National Historic Shipwrecks Program and State-based programs
- liaise with Maritime Archaeological Associations and any body or person having similar aims;
- publish periodically a Bulletin and a Newsletter or such other Special Publications as may be determined from time to time;
- inform and make recommendations to government and organisations of matters relating to maritime archaeology
The aims of the Scholarship
The aim of this scholarship is to encourage worthwhile research projects applicable to maritime archaeology. Successful funding areas would include: original historical and archaeological research, site-based studies, the application of different survey techniques, artefact studies, training and educational products, school-targeted projects and resource tools, and the development of computer software.
Merit will be given to those Scholarship applications that involve new research or involve existing projects that have been unable to proceed because of financial constraints (eg lacking in-kind or direct financial support by institutions or other supporting bodies).
The investigation or project must be consistent with the objectives of AIMA and the work must have a benefit/application to Maritime Archaeology in Australasia.
Critical requirement
The successful applicant(s) must disseminate research results in an AIMA publication.
For $500-$1,000 awards: a report for the AIMA Newsletter (1,000-2,000 words), or
For $1,001+ awards: an article for publication (5,000 to 10,000 words) in the AIMA Journal, to AIMA publication standards, within twelve (12) months of receiving the first instalment of grant monies.
Applications should therefore be submitted only for projects or research activities that can be concluded or critically analysed within this time frame. Larger research outputs (greater than 15,000 words) may be considered for publication as an AIMA Special Publication. A special dispensation of 24 months may be granted for these projects.
Amount of funding available and for what purposes
Applicants must be able to demonstrate that the project addresses at least one of the aims and objectives of the Scholarship Program (above).
The total scholarship award $6,000 will be provided at the discretion of the AIMA Scholarship Committee. AIMA reserves the right to fund more than one project from these monies each year.
The Scholarship can be used for travel, research and analysis, purchase and development of computer software, and purchase of equipment and its refinement. All equipment and computer software will be bought in the name of AIMA and will remain its property. The scholarship will not be available for the purchase of computer hardware and cameras.
The scholarship must be used for original research or a project that is not being carried out by anyone else. The scholarship cannot to be used for travel to conferences but can be used for travel costs associated with the project, eg. fieldwork.
Scholarship monies will be disbursed once receipts have been supplied to the Treasurer and Scholarship Chair when monies have been paid by the recipient. Or, on agreement when invoices have been provided to the Treasurer and Scholarship Chair and AIMA is in a position to transfer the funds or pay by an appropriate means (please note AIMA can only transfer monies and does have a credit card at this stage).
Scholarship winners will be required to submit an acquittal of all expenditures to the AIMA Treasurer within twelve months of receiving funds.
Eligibility
Anyone with the intent to undertake original maritime archaeological research in Australasia is encouraged to apply. Preference is granted to student-led research. All applicants must abide by the AIMA Code of Ethics.
How to apply
All questions must be answered or write "N/A" if not applicable
A detailed description of the project is required in addition to statements about how the project will directly benefit maritime archaeology in Australasia. Applicants must show that they can complete the tasks within the specified time period and budget. All applicants must provide at least two referee statements. Referees must be able to comment knowledgeably on the work you plan to do and your ability to carry out the project. They must not be involved in any aspect of the proposed project. Please provide the contact details of both referees below.
Assessment of applications
The AIMA Scholarship Committee will assess all applications. The Committee will consider the merits of each project in the context of AIMA’s objectives, the project being completed to publication standard within 12-months, and upon its budget. The Committee’s decision is final.