The EI Research Committee is dedicated to advancing knowledge and strategies that support the longevity and well-being of working horses, donkeys, mules, and their families. Through research, we aim to deepen understanding of the challenges faced in Equitarian settings and provide practical, ethical solutions that enhance the lives of both animals and their communities.
Call for Research Proposals
We are excited to invite research proposals that align with EI’s mission of improving the health and welfare of working equids and the communities they serve.
Proposals must include:
- Ethical approval from your institution and documentation of owner consent
- A clear plan that demonstrates how the research will benefit the well-being of working equids and their communities without causing harm to animals or humans.
All contributors to approved projects will be recognized alongside the Equitarian Initiative in any publications or reports.
Proposals are accepted year-round; however, we recommend submitting at least two months before the intended start date to allow time for review and approval.
Review and Approval Process
- Initial Review: The Research Committee will conduct a preliminary review to ensure the proposal aligns with the Equitarian Initiative’s mission and ethical guidelines.
- Secondary Review: Proposals meeting these criteria will proceed to a detailed evaluation phase using the following rubric to score the proposals.
The entire review process typically takes three weeks from submission to the final decision. Approved projects must comply with the Equitarian Initiative’s ethical standards and the policies of any collaborating institution before data collection begins.
Funding
While we hope to have funding available in the future, currently all proposed projects must be self-funded.
How to Submit
Submit your proposal and any related documentation through the form below. For questions or additional support, please contact research@equitarianinitiative.org.
We look forward to supporting innovative research that creates meaningful, lasting impacts for working equids and their communities!