When formulating its recommendations for the Trustees, The Research Committee particularly favours activities that seem likely to lead to improved systems of managing land, water, plants and animals in ways which will enhance the productivity and quality of food, fisheries, plants and forests, while simultaneously conserving the natural environment, preserving biodiversity, avoiding pollution of soils and water, and enhancing human health and welfare.

As at March 2008, the Australia & Pacific Science Foundation had funded 27 completed projects with grants totalling $663,619.

As at March 2008 the Pacific Biological Foundation had funded 19 completed projects with grants totalling $477,705.

24 current projects are being funded by the Australia & Pacific Science Foundation with grants totalling $683,780.