The National Shellfisheries Association, founded in 1908, is an international organization comprised of scientists, management officials, and industry members. It focuses on the study and sustainable management of shellfish resources including clams, oysters, mussels, scallops, snails, shrimp, lobsters, crabs, and other important species. The association is dedicated to the biology, ecology, production, economics, and management of these resources.
The Melbourne R. Carriker Student Research Grant is designed to support and recognize students' excellence in shellfish research. Named after a distinguished past President of the Association, this competitive grant offers a $1,250 award for non-travel related expenses to NSA student members conducting research for their Master's thesis or Ph.D. dissertation in shellfish studies. The grant emphasizes the importance of diverse research endeavors within the field and encourages applications for varying research projects, noting that students may apply for multiple NSA grants but must submit distinct applications for each.