View the abstracts of the 2004/2005 winners

View the abstracts of the 2002 winners

View the abstracts of the 2000 winners.

The Solent Forum dissertation prize consists of two awards, one for an undergraduate and one for a postgraduate dissertation. The aim of the awards is to facilitate links between the Forum and the Solent's academic institutions and to encourage scientific research on the Solent. They will also promote and raise the profile of the work of both the winners and their respective institution amongst the Solent's coastal community.

ELIGIBILITY

Students attending either the University of Southampton, University of Portsmouth, Farnborough College of Technology, Southampton Solent University and Bournemouth University are eligible for the award. The geographical area covered by the dissertation must coincide, either totally or partially, with the Solent Forum study area (Hurst Spit to Selsey Bill and the North coast of the Isle of Wight). The dissertation must also be on a coastal topic or theme, preferably on one of the topics covered in the Forum's Strategic Guidance for the Solent. Potential dissertations must be proposed by one of the teaching staff from the above mentioned organisations before they will be considered.

TIMING

The dissertation prize is awarded every 2 years if there is enough entrants. The next prize will take place in 2007. The time table is given below:

• April - Call for nominations for both undergraduate and postgraduate dissertations done since the last prize was awarded.
• June - Reminder sent for end of June Deadline.
• July - Candidate dissertations to be judged in the first week of July and the awards can be announced at graduation ceremonies where appropriate.
• September - Prizes awarded at the Autumn Solent Forum meeting

JUDGING

The judging panel will consist of nominated members of the Solent Forum. In case of dispute, the Forum Chairman will nominate an individual to make the final decision. To assist with judging, a copy of the dissertation is required and a single page summary that summarises its contents and the reasons for its nomination. Dissertations will be judged on the following criteria:

1. Relevance to the Solent
2. Thoroughness of research
3. Relevance to the Solent research agenda
4. Validity of conclusions
5. Presentation, consistency and clarity

The judges will nominate a winner in each category and may also 'highly commend' other high quality submissions.

PRIZE

The postgraduate winner will receive a cheque for £200 and a certificate. The undergraduate winner, a cheque for £100 and a certificate. The certificates may be presented at the graduation ceremony.