In a significant move towards fostering international collaboration in ocean and freshwater conservation, researchers at the University of British Columbia (UBC) have inaugurated the Africa-UBC Oceans & Fisheries Visiting Fellows Program. This groundbreaking initiative aims to inspire young African academics to lead innovative research endeavors in the field of ocean and fisheries sustainability.

The fellowship program is specifically designed for early-career scholars from sub-Saharan African universities and research institutes. It offers them the unique opportunity to collaborate with leading researchers at UBC's Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, renowned for its expertise in marine science and conservation.

By facilitating diverse and equitable research partnerships, the Africa-UBC Oceans & Fisheries Visiting Fellows Program seeks to harness the collective expertise of researchers from both African institutions and UBC. The goal is to foster impactful collaborations that address critical challenges in ocean and fisheries sustainability, particularly within the African context.

Selected fellows will have the opportunity to spend 12 months at UBC's Vancouver Campus, immersing themselves in a vibrant academic environment and building international networks. During their visit, fellows will work on projects of their choice in collaboration with UBC-based scholars, benefiting from the vast resources and mentoring opportunities available at UBC.

The fellowship award includes coverage for one economy return ticket, accommodation, and subsistence during the UBC visit, along with CAD 5,000 in research funds for the proposed project. Applicants are required to have at least one UBC-based researcher as a potential collaborator, and the selection process will be conducted through a rigorous evaluation by committees at both the Africa Centre of Excellence in Coastal Resilience and UBC.

With a deadline for applications set for May 15, 2024, the program aims to select two fellows for its inaugural year. This initiative marks a significant step towards fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange in the pursuit of sustainable ocean and freshwater management.

Interested candidates can apply through the official program website here

 

Article by Jed Mwangi

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https://africaubcprogram.ucc.edu.gh/?step=applicant-information