Research Priorities and Guidelines

The Marine Mammal Commission carries out a small research program that supports projects aimed at meeting the conservation and protection goals of the Marine Mammal Protection Act. The Commission’s research program includes all relevant activities including basic and applied research, workshops, literature reviews, compilation of expert opinion, and drafting manuscripts. The research program is administered by the Commission’s Scientific Program staff in consultation with a research subcommittee composed of members of the Commission and the Committee of Scientific Advisors on Marine Mammals.

The research program awards grants based on proposals submitted in response to general Requests for Proposals (RFPs), unsolicited proposals, and specific research topics identified by the Commission. The amount of funds available varies from year to year, depending on the level of congressional appropriations. Since it was established in 1972, the Commission has supported more than 1,000 projects. Final reports of most Commission-sponsored studies are available from the National Technical Information Service or directly from the Commission, and many studies have led to publication in books or scientific journals.

The Commission encourages the submission of proposals for innovative and well-designed projects that address important conservation issues for marine mammals or marine ecosystems but that may be unlikely to obtain funding through traditional research agencies. On occasion, the Commission provides start-up or seed money for promising research projects that, once proven feasible, may be supported later by other federal agencies. The Commission encourages applicants to obtain additional support by collaborating with, or soliciting funds from, other institutions, organizations, or agencies.

Research Funding Opportunities

The Marine Mammal Commission does not currently have any active RFPs. Future RFPs will be announced in the Federal Register and on this Web site and may also be announced in appropriate professional journals, newsletters, and by means of e-mail list servers to ensure timely and widespread awareness of funding opportunities. The Commission also accepts unsolicited proposals, but those interested are encouraged to contact the Scientific Program Director by e-mail (bgisiner@mmc.gov) or telephone (301-504-0087) before undertaking a full, formal proposal. Proposals will be reviewed by the Commission’s Research Subcommittee and external experts, as deemed necessary by the Commission. Proposal reviews will follow standard National Science Foundation and National Academy of Sciences guidelines for conflict of interest and confidentiality.

Policy on Indirect Costs

Due to the limited amount of funds available for research awards and the nature of the Commission’s goals and responsibilities, the Marine Mammal Commission has traditionally limited indirect costs for research grants and contracts awarded by the Commission to 10 percent of the total award. Indirect costs, or overhead, include, but are not limited to, operation and maintenance of facilities, general and departmental administration, and library expenses. Although the Commission recognizes the costs associated with the maintenance of research programs and the institutions that support them, the Commission believes it is necessary to limit its contributions to indirect costs to meet the unique and broad goals of the Marine Mammal Protection Act.

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