1. Papers should deal with the taxonomy and/or systematics of a group of fossil organisms from the British Isles and must appear in a peer-reviewed publication, such as a journal, monograph series or book chapter. In some cases, applicants may need to provide evidence that an article was peer-reviewed (in the case of some book chapters, for example). Papers whose primary focus is on a related subject area (e.g., palaeoceanography, palaeoclimatology, geochemistry) will not be considered.

2. Papers should either be the sole work of the applicant or the applicant should be the lead author on the publication. Where there is more than one author, the applicant must produce letters from the other co-authors stating that the lead author was responsible for leading the work. These letters should be submitted with the main application.

3. Early career stage researchers are considered to be those currently engaged in post-graduate research (Master’s or PhD), under the age of 35, or within 10 years of the completion date of the Ph D. Letters of support are required from the supervisor of the work to confirm the applicant’s eligibility. Such letters should be submitted with the main application.

4. Submitted papers must be written in English and sent to the Prize Committee as either a reprint-quality PDF (preferred) or as a hard copy (four copies required in the latter instance).