For the first time, Esplora is launching a grant for young researchers. If you are between 13 and 21 years of age and have a research idea, the Young Researchers’ Grant will help make it a reality. Read on, and then visit the Esplora website for the guidelines.
Ever had a ‘what if…’ idea and wondered what it would take to actually find out? Esplora Interactive Science Centre has launched the Young Researchers’ Grant, a funding scheme that gives young people the chance to design and run a real research project of their own. It’s the first time the grant has been offered, and it’s a genuinely exciting opportunity for young curious minds – University of Malta students included.
Who Can Apply?
The grant is open to anyone aged 13 to 21 who is a Maltese citizen or holds a Maltese residence permit. Successful applicants, known as Esploraturi, fall into two groups: Esploraturi Nebbieta (Sprouts), aged 13 to 17, and Esploraturi Blanzuni (Buds), aged 18 to 21. You can apply solo or team up with up to two other people, as long as everyone is in the same age bracket.
What’s in It for You?
Each project can receive up to €700 in funding, and the researcher or mentor supporting you can separately receive up to €1,000 for their guidance. Projects need to be built around a genuine scientific question and completed within 12 months.
The whole point of the grant is to encourage young people to take the lead. You come up with the question, design the method, collect the data, and see it through. This requires the same initiative, independence and responsibility as running a funded research project in the real world but on a smaller scale. The mentor is there to guide rather than direct.
The guidelines of the fund have been left purposefully broad to allow many different kinds of research projects to be eligible for the grant. A biology student might investigate how microplastics infiltrate local rock pools. An engineering student could prototype and test a low-cost water filtration system. Someone studying psychology might explore how screen time affects focus among Maltese teens. A geography or environmental science student could map urban heat islands across their neighbourhood. These are only some examples – the research question is up to you.
Beyond the money, awardees get a structured programme of hands-on training: workshops on forming a hypothesis, digital research skills, collecting and analysing data, scientific writing, and public speaking, plus a mid-project check-in to share progress with fellow Esploraturi. The programme wraps up with a conference-style event where you present your findings to the public.
How to Apply
Have we piqued your interest yet? Visit the Esplora website for the guidelines and a link to the online application. The application deadline is 21 October 2026.
Have a question about the grant or want some feedback on your application before applying? Reach out to the Esplora team through funds.esplora@gov.mt – they’re happy to help!
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