International Blue Carbon Institute (IBCI) Fellowship Program 2026/27

The International Blue Carbon Institute (IBCI) invites experienced blue carbon scientists and practitioners to apply for its fellowship. The program selects one fellow for a two-year term. Applications from Africa are especially encouraged. Applications close on 23 November 2026.

Program Snapshot

• Host Organization: International Blue Carbon Institute, Conservation International
• Funding: USD 60,000 grant, plus possible funding for annual meetings
• Duration: Two years
• Positions: One fellow in 2026
• Target Group: Experienced blue carbon experts, with priority for Africa this cycle
• Deadline: 23 November 2026

Focus Areas

• Blue carbon science and innovation
• Mangroves, salt marshes, seagrasses, and kelp forests
• Community engagement and capacity building
• Policy, law, and conservation finance
• Communications and social sciences

About the Fellowship

The program advances the conservation, restoration, and protection of blue carbon ecosystems. It has three goals. It advances blue carbon science and innovation. It builds capacity for ecosystem protection. It also scales up solutions through collaboration and shared knowledge. A selection committee of global and regional experts reviews applications.

Reviewers consider technical content, fit with IBCI priorities, local and regional impact, and geographic representation. The program encourages multidisciplinary projects. Applicants should show how their work will help local communities.

What Fellows Receive

• A grant of USD 60,000 for new or existing projects
• Support for research costs, such as travel for lab studies, equipment, publication fees, and field assistants
• Possible funding to attend annual International Blue Carbon Scientific Working Group meetings
• Membership in a network of blue carbon professionals and alumni
• Chances for lab exchange and research collaboration
• Skills training, including science communication

Who Can Apply

Applicants should meet these requirements:

• Hold an advanced master’s degree or PhD
• Have at least five years of expertise beyond the early-career stage
• Be active in research, publishing, or mentoring
• Show commitment to protecting and restoring blue carbon ecosystems
• The program welcomes applicants from all regions. It strongly encourages those in the Global South, especially Africa this cycle.

Required Materials

• Proof of employment or a letter of support from your institution
• A CV
• The completed IBCI Fellowship Application Form
• The completed Budget Sheet

How to Apply

Download the two templates from the IBCI page. Then upload all four files through the Microsoft OneDrive link before the deadline. You cannot edit documents after uploading them. Email ibci@conservation.org with questions. IBCI will announce the fellow in March 2027.

Click Here to Apply

Conclusion

This fellowship gives an experienced blue carbon expert a USD 60,000 grant and a global network. African applicants in particular should prepare their materials and apply before 23 November 2026.

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