The SPI FOREL Grants support Swiss-based scientists who wish to use the FOREL Research Platform in coastal polar and sub-polar regions for pilot projects, additional fieldwork, and logistics. The call is open until 15 June 2025 for fieldwork in 2026.
Managed by the Forel Heritage Association, FOREL is a 28-metre-long sailing boat with an aluminium hull dedicated to oceanographic research in polar and sub-polar regions, specifically in coastal areas inaccessible to larger research vessels.
The SPI FOREL Grants support Swiss-based scientists who wish to use the FOREL Research Platform in such environments by allowing them to launch short-term new ideas (for example pilot projects), fund additional fieldwork or launch new collaborations with financial support for logistics. Collaboration with new teams or across disciplines are particularly encouraged, as well as participation in larger/international activities. The grants can also be used to complement the funding of initiatives supported by larger funding schemes (e.g. SNSF, EU, etc.).
The 2026 season will comprise 2 legs:
- Leg 1 – 15 June to 15 July: Scientific work on board FOREL will be embedded into the CASCADES expedition’s scientific plan and focus on complementary regions to those covered by the CCGS Amundsen with the goal to broaden the geographic coverage and scientific scope of the of the expedition.
- Leg 2 – 15 July to 1 September: FOREL will carry out an independent campaign and focus its scientific work around the more rarely visited areas of South-East Greenland.
The amount per successfully evaluated project is capped at CHF75,000.-.
The deadline for submission is 15 June 2025, 12:00 (noon, Swiss time).
Canadian scientists who wish to apply for the Leg 1 on board FOREL are invited to submit their funding application to the TCA management directly. Further information and contact details are accessible from the SPI FOREL Grants webpage. We look forward to receiving your applications. Shall you have any questions about the call, the SPI team remains at your disposal by email at grants@swisspolar.ch. For any questions regarding the vessel and expedition details, please write to contact@forel-heritage.org.
Header photograph: FOREL Research Platform © Julien Girardot, all rights reserved