IBCI Fellowship 2026 supports experienced researchers and practitioners working to conserve, restore and protect blue carbon ecosystems. The IBCI Fellowship offers a US$60,000 grant allocated over a two-year programme to support new projects, existing research and practical initiatives that advance blue carbon science and climate action.
The programme is run by the International Blue Carbon Institute in collaboration with Conservation International and the wider blue carbon research community. It aims to strengthen research, build professional capacity and scale solutions that benefit coastal communities and the environment.
IBCI Fellowship Benefits
- US$60,000 per selected fellow over two years
- Funding may be used for developing new blue carbon research programmes or projects.
- Supplementing ongoing research initiatives.
- Travel associated with laboratory studies or research collaboration.
- Purchasing necessary research equipment.
- Paying eligible publication fees.
- Supporting field assistants and other additional research costs.
- Establishing or strengthening programmes to improve their continuity and long-term impact.
- Fellows may receive funding to attend annual International Blue Carbon Scientific Working Group meetings.
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IBCI Fellowship Eligibility Criteria
- Intended for experienced blue carbon scientists and practitioners who demonstrate a strong commitment to the research, protection, conservation or restoration of blue carbon ecosystems.
- Suitable candidates should have advanced qualifications, such as a Master’s degree or PhD.
- At least five years of relevant expertise.
- Applicants are expected to be beyond the early stages of their careers, with experience contributing to scientific knowledge, publishing research and, where relevant, mentoring others.
- Applicants from all geographical regions may apply.
- Particularly encourages applications from: Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, South and Southeast Asia, Pacific Island countries and communities, and other underserved or underrepresented scientific communities.
How to Apply for IBCI Fellowship
- Visit the International Blue Carbon Institute website and review the fellowship requirements.
- Download the official application form and budget sheet.
- Prepare a clear proposal explaining the research or programme, its objectives, methodology and expected outcomes.
- Demonstrate how the proposed work aligns with IBCI priorities and could benefit blue carbon ecosystems, climate resilience and local communities.
- Complete the CV, institutional support documentation, application form and budget sheet.
- Upload the required files through the designated Microsoft OneDrive application link provided on the official fellowship page.
Don’t miss this deadline
Applications close on Monday, 23 November 2026. We’ll email you 7, 3 and 1 days before.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the IBCI Fellowship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, required documents, selection and how to apply for the 2026 fellowship.
What is the IBCI Fellowship?
The IBCI Fellowship is a programme run by the International Blue Carbon Institute, in collaboration with Conservation International and the blue carbon research community, that supports experienced researchers and practitioners to conserve, restore and protect blue carbon ecosystems through funding and professional development.
How much funding does the fellowship provide?
Each selected fellow receives a grant of US$60,000 allocated over a two-year programme. The award is intended to support eligible programme and research activities rather than being presented as personal income or a specified monthly stipend.
Who is eligible to apply for the fellowship?
The fellowship is intended for experienced blue carbon scientists and practitioners with advanced qualifications (such as a Master’s degree or PhD) and at least five years of relevant expertise. Applicants should be beyond the early career stage and demonstrate contributions to scientific knowledge or practice.
What is the application deadline for the 2026 cycle?
The application window for the 2026 IBCI Fellowship runs from 12 October to 23 November 2026. Applicants should submit their complete documents before the closing date and confirm any final submission instructions on the official website.
Which research areas does the fellowship support?
The fellowship supports multidisciplinary projects across scientific research, social sciences, community engagement, communications, policy and law, and conservation finance. It welcomes proposals involving mangroves, salt marshes, seagrasses and kelp forests.
What documents are required to apply?
Applicants must submit proof of employment or an institutional letter of support, a curriculum vitae (CV), the completed IBCI Fellowship application form (official template) and a completed budget sheet detailing the proposed use of funding.
How are applications assessed and selected?
A selection committee including Conservation International blue carbon experts and members of the International Blue Carbon Scientific Working Group reviews applications. Assessment criteria include technical quality, alignment with IBCI priorities, potential local and regional impact, and geographic representation.
Are there geographic priorities for applicants?
Applications are welcome from all regions worldwide, with particular encouragement for researchers and practitioners from Africa and other underserved Global South regions such as Latin America and the Caribbean, South and Southeast Asia, and Pacific Island countries and communities.
What can fellowship funds be used for?
Funding may support developing new research programmes, supplementing ongoing initiatives, travel for collaboration, purchasing research equipment, paying publication fees, supporting field assistants and establishing or strengthening programmes for long-term impact.
When will selected fellows be announced?
For the 2026 cycle, selected fellows are expected to be announced in March 2027. Shortlisted candidates may be invited to interview and should be prepared to discuss feasibility, expected outcomes and how the funding will support the proposed work.
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