Do you research or protect mangroves, seagrasses, salt marshes or kelp forests? The International Blue Carbon Institute (IBCI) Fellowship 2026, run by Conservation International, will award US$60,000 over two years to one experienced blue carbon professional. Applicants from Africa are particularly encouraged this cycle. Applications close on 23 November 2026.
Fellowship at a Glance
- Organiser: International Blue Carbon Institute (IBCI), Conservation International
- Grant: US$60,000 over two years
- Number of fellows: One for the 2026 cycle
- Priority: Global South applicants, especially from Africa
- For: Experienced scientists and practitioners (master’s or PhD, about five years of expertise)
- Deadline: 23 November 2026
- Results: March 2027
What Is Blue Carbon?
“Blue carbon” is the carbon stored by coastal and marine ecosystems such as mangroves, seagrass meadows, tidal salt marshes and kelp forests. These habitats can lock away carbon far faster than many land forests, and they also protect coastlines and support fisheries. Protecting and restoring them is an increasingly important climate solution, and Africa’s long coastlines and mangrove forests make the continent central to this work.
Benefits
- US$60,000 in funding over two years
- Flexible use of funds: Extend current research, travel for lab work, buy equipment, pay publication fees or hire field assistants, or start a new programme or project
- Global network: Join the blue carbon professional community, including the International Blue Carbon Scientific Working Group
- Skills development: Training such as science communication, plus lab exchanges and collaborations
- Meeting attendance: Possible funded participation in annual Working Group meetings
Eligibility
- An advanced master’s degree or PhD
- About five years of expertise in blue carbon research or practice
- Beyond the early-career stage and active in research, publishing or mentoring
- Employed by, or supported by, an institution, with a letter of support or proof of employment
- Working on the science and/or practice of protecting, conserving or restoring blue carbon ecosystems
Projects can cover many fields, including natural science, social science, community engagement, communications, policy and law, or conservation finance. Applicants from underserved communities are encouraged.
Required Documents
- Proof of employment or an institutional letter of support
- Your CV
- The completed IBCI Fellowship Application Form
- The completed Budget Sheet
How Applications Are Judged
- Strength of the technical content
- Alignment with IBCI’s priorities
- Expected local and regional impact
- Geographic representation
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an interview.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Show local impact. Explain how your project will benefit coastal communities and ecosystems in your country or region.
- Build a realistic budget. Use the official Budget Sheet and link each cost to a clear project activity.
- Highlight your track record. Publications, field projects and students you have mentored all help show you are past early career.
- Get your institutional letter early. Official letters can take time to sign.
- Check files before uploading. Documents can’t be edited once submitted.
How to Apply
- Download the Application Form and Budget Sheet from the official IBCI fellowship page.
- Prepare your CV and institutional letter or proof of employment.
- Upload all documents through the submission link on the official page.
- Submit by 23 November 2026.
Apply for the IBCI Fellowship 2026
Questions can be sent to [email protected].
