What the Grant Funds

Thanks to a generous donation from the family of Dr Euan MacKie FSAScot, this specific grant fund is available to pay for scientific analyses, including radiocarbon dates, relating to Neolithic, Bronze Age or Iron Age Scotland. Reflecting his interests in Scottish archaeology, applications are especially encouraged with a particular emphasis on the study of  brochs,  duns, vitrified  forts  and  stone circles. 

Amount

£2,000 maximum  

Deadlines

There are two annual closing dates: 30 April and the 30 November each year. 

Decisions

For applications received by the 30 November, applicants will be notified of a decision by the end of the following January. For applications submitted by the 30 April, decisions will be communicated by the end of June. 

Grants are made on the recommendation of the Grants and Awards Committee and the approval of the Society’s Council. 

Additional Information

All analyses will be undertaken at the SUERC (Scottish Universities Environmental Research Centre), who will work with successful applicants to ensure the best results possible. In addition to radiocarbon dating, other analyses available include stable carbon, nitrogen and sulphur isotopes in bone collagen for palaeodietary studies, strontium isotopes (87Sr/86Sr) in tooth enamel for geographic provenance, and oxygen isotopes in tooth enamel for geographic provenance. 

How to Apply 

Grant applications should be made using our grant application form and be sent to Dr Helen Spencer FSAScot, Head of Research, by email to grants@socantscot.org.   

You can download an application form here. 

Please read our detailed Grant Application Guidelines carefully before filling in the application form. Scientific analyses will be conducted by the SUERC . Please use their current prices in any application to the Society. 

The full terms and conditions of our grants are outlined here.  

Donations

The Dr Euan MacKie Legacy Fund was initially available for three years (2021 to 2023 inclusive) but has been extended for a further two years through the generosity of his family. They welcome any further contributions to increase the size of grant available each year. If you are interested in contributing, please contact Dr Helen Spencer FSaScot, Head of Research, by email to grants@socantscot.org.