RIA Archaeology Research Excavation Grants

The average grant awarded has previously been in the region of €20,000.

1. Topographical, building, geophysical or other surveys in advance of anticipated excavation, which may include archaeological excavation in the same or subsequent field season depending on results of the survey work.
2. Archaeological excavation, which must include reasonably anticipated post-excavation obligations for that season.
3. Further post-excavation analysis and preparation of a final excavation report, as per licence/consent and grant conditions, of projects funded within the last five years by the RIA AREG grant scheme.
4. Publication of RIA-funded projects funded in the last five years by the RIA AREG grant scheme (distinct from final excavation report as per licence/consent conditions).
5. Archiving and accessioning of RIA-funded projects funded in the last five years by the RIA AREG grant scheme as per licence/consent conditions.

Aims and Priorities

1. The furtherance of archaeological knowledge in the context of the finite nature of the archaeological resource.
2. Standalone questions into which research excavation might provide an original/innovative contribution to archaeological knowledge.

Applicants shall provide:

• A letter from one named referee who is independent* of the project, verifying the applicant’s competence to undertake the research. *The exception is where an application is made by a PhD student, in which case that reference must be from their supervisor.
• Where relevant, a copy of the Ordnance Survey map with the site or sites marked.
• Where relevant, a detailed site plan with the site or sites marked.
• Detailed costings of proposed work (using template form provided).
• Where relevant, a copy of a detailed quotation received from proposed specialist(s).
• Where relevant, correspondence from the NMI stating that the applicant has discussed the application and that there is permission in principle for the proposed work based on the project rationale. If a proposal will require licences to alter and/or export, it is advisable that those discussions should include the methodology detail.
• Where relevant, correspondence from the NMS stating that the applicant has discussed the application and that there is permission in principle for the proposed work based on the project rationale. If a proposal will require licences and/or consents, it is strongly advised that those discussions should include the methodology detail.

• The relevance of the proposal to the furtherance of the aims and priorities of this grant scheme (30%)
• The ability of the applicant to carry out the proposed research, demonstrated through a track record of relevant competencies, as appropriate to their career stage (30%)
• The design, resources and methodologies that are being brought to this project to enable its success, including personnel, skills, equipment, facilities, technologies and materials. Highlight those that are innovative or State of the Art (20%)
• Evidence of plan for impactful and relevant dissemination (20%)

For further information check www.ria.ie.

Email: grants@ria.ie