The Canadian Meteorological and Oceanographic Society (CMOS) is Canada’s national learned society for the atmospheric and oceanographic sciences, including meteorology, climatology, oceanography, hydrology and related environmental disciplines. As a non-profit organization, CMOS brings together researchers, practitioners, students and stakeholders interested in weather, climate and water systems across Canada.
Role of the Canadian Meteorological and Oceanographic Society in the funding ecosystem
Beyond its scientific and networking activities, CMOS plays a direct role in funding the next generation of specialists in meteorology and oceanography. The Society administers a portfolio of scholarships, bursaries, prizes and awards that provide monetary support. These funding instruments typically target undergraduate and graduate students, early‑career scientists and, in some cases, professionals whose work advances atmospheric and oceanographic sciences in Canada.
Through these awards, the organization helps cover costs such as tuition, research activities and participation in scientific conferences. By recognizing excellence and potential, CMOS contributes to maintaining strong Canadian capacity in climate, weather, marine and environmental research and services.
General evaluation criteria for applications
While details may vary by scholarship or prize, CMOS awards are generally based on academic excellence, scientific merit, and relevance to meteorology, oceanography or closely related fields. Many programs also consider the quality of the research project, letters of reference and the candidate’s potential to contribute to Canadian atmospheric and oceanographic science.
Some awards are competitive and require a formal application, while others are based on nominations from supervisors, departments or peers. Information provided on the site typically explains eligibility conditions, documentation to be submitted and important deadlines.
Supported audiences and overall impact
CMOS funding mainly supports:
- Undergraduate and graduate students in meteorology, oceanography, climate science and related disciplines.
- Early‑career researchers whose projects address weather, climate, oceans or environmental prediction.
- Members of the community who have made outstanding contributions to Canadian atmospheric and oceanographic sciences.
By providing recurring scholarships and prizes, CMOS strengthens Canada’s research and operational capacity in climate and weather services, coastal and marine forecasting, environmental protection and adaptation to climate change. These financial supports complement major public research grants, targeting more focused needs of students and young professionals and encouraging them to build their careers in these strategic fields.