The British Ornithologists' Union aims to promote the understanding and conservation of the world's birds, further ornithology within the scientific community, and introduce scientific ornithology to a broader audience. This will be achieved by publishing the Ibis journal, organizing meetings and conferences, offering ornithological research grants, facilitating research connections, providing ornithological advice to policymakers, and maintaining the official British List of birds.
The BOU Career Development Bursary aims to support short-term research positions for young or early-career ornithologists either between a first and higher degree program or immediately after completing a higher degree. This bursary focuses on combining the development of skills useful for future careers in ornithology with conducting sound scientific research. Applicants must be members of the BOU to apply, except for those from and residing in developing countries, who can apply without membership.