Call for Applications: Award of Ten PhD scholarships in the knowledge, management and conservation of marine and coastal ecosystems in West Africa
- Organisation: Ucoopia West Africa, IUCN and WASOP’s Interuniversity Scientific Committee (CSI)
- Duration of the works: 3 years
- Deadline: 30 December 2026 at 23:59 (GMT)
West Africa’s marine and coastal ecosystems provide a livelihood for millions of people and are home to exceptional biodiversity. However, they are under significant pressure, and the scientific knowledge needed to manage them more effectively remains scattered.
To address these challenges, the West Africa Sustainable Ocean Programme (WASOP) was established. Funded by the European Union as part of the Global Gateway strategy, it aims to strengthen the sustainable management of marine and coastal resources in thirteen coastal countries in West Africa. Within WASOP’s Pillar 3, ‘Protection and Restoration of Marine and Coastal Ecosystems’ – coordinated by the IUCN – Ucoopia is implementing Outcome 1, which focuses on applied research into the management and conservation of marine protected areas. This component is supported by an Interuniversity Scientific Committee (CSI).
As part of this initiative, Ucoopia is inviting applications for ten three-year PhD scholarships, intended for PhD students who are nationals of the thirteen coastal countries of the WASOP (Benin, Cape Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mauritania, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone and Togo).
Applications from women and people with disabilities are strongly encouraged.
To read more, click here.
