Backing Ecologists from Sudan to Succeed & Thrive (BEST II) in Times of Crises
Call for Participation
Program: 8 October - 18 December 2025
We are delighted to announce the second call for participation for AGYA’s mentoring programme Backing Ecologists of Sudan to Thrive (BEST II) in Times of Crises. This programme is designed to support young Sudanese ecologists who are navigating their academic careers amidst the ongoing political and environmental crises in Sudan.
The BEST II program focuses on Long-Term Ecological Monitoring as its central theme, aiming to empower young ecologists with the skills and knowledge necessary to conduct impactful and much-needed long-term ecological studies and conservation efforts in Sudan, a region severely affected by climate change, biodiversity loss, and political instability.
This online programme aims to offer participants specialised trainings in ecological monitoring methodologies, mentoring from experienced experts, and the opportunity to develop and present their research projects regardless of their location. Given the situation in Sudan, many ecologists have lost access to their labs or their field research sites. This programme aims to provide innovative academic settings to help young Sudanese ecologists overcome these challenges in an intellectually stimulating environment, which encourages the exchange of ideas and the exploration of new research paths, including post-conflict ecological surveys and monitoring programs.
To ensure accessibility for all, the program will take place online, allowing participants to join from any location, making it possible for Sudanese ecologists, regardless of their circumstances, to benefit from this transformative experience.
Programme Components
- Stage 1: Fundamentals of Long-Term Ecological Monitoring (8 - 16 October 2025):
An intensive training workshop focuses on the core principles, methodologies, and practical applications of long-term ecological studies. Key topics will include monitoring design, biodiversity assessment techniques, and the integration of remote sensing technologies for long-term environmental observation.
- Stage 2: Individual Research Project (19 October – 14 December 2025):
Over ten weeks, participants will work on case studies and individual research projects under the guidance of experienced mentors. This phase includes detailed sessions on research design, data analysis, and science communication.
- Stage 3: Final Symposium (17 -18 December 2025):
A two-day virtual symposium where participants will present their research findings and showcase the skills they have developed during the programme. This symposium will provide a platform for networking and knowledge exchange.
Beyond the academic training, BEST II serves as an exceptional platform for international and interdisciplinary networking. The highly competitive programme will offer about 20 participants the opportunity to connect with leading international and Sudanese researchers, forging valuable relationships that can extend well beyond the programme's duration. These connections will not only enhance the current research of the participants but also open doors to future collaborations and career opportunities.
Member in Charge
The programme is a project by AGYA members under the lead of Dr. Ahmed Siddig in cooperation with Harvard Forest, USA and the University of Khartoum, Sudan. The mentoring programme is co-organized and delivered by a group of committed Sudanese and international scientists as well as AGYA members with outstanding research and mentoring experiences at excellent universities and research institutions around the world.
Join us as we embark on this journey towards resilience in research and successful career paths!
Eligibility
- Applicants must be Sudanese nationals, residing either in Sudan or abroad.
- Applicants must hold a Master’s degree, be enrolled as PhD students, or have obtained their PhD within the last 1–3 years, preferably in the fields of biology, agriculture, forestry, rangeland management, wildlife, geography, or other related environmental sciences.
- Recently graduated Master’s students who intend to pursue a PhD in the near future are also eligible to apply.
Important Dates
- 25 September 2025: Application deadline
- 1 October 2025: Notification of selected participants
- 8 October 2025: Programme start (opening)
- 18 December 2025: Programme closing
Application Process & Required documents
Interested candidates are invited to apply by the deadline 25 September 2025, to this link. Please make sure to attach the following required documents in a single PDF file:
- A curriculum vitae (max. 2 pages)
- Copy of previous degree certificate
- One recommendation letter from advisor or evidence of registration as a PhD student
- A sample of your previous research experience (e.g. thesis abstract)
- Motivation letter (max. 250 words)
If you cannot use the Google form, kindly email us the above-required documents plus the application form (PDF or Doc) altogether as a single PDF file at participation(at)agya.info.
Only selected participants will be notified by 1 October 2025.
For inquiries, kindly refer to Mr. Ahmed Hasoba at ahmedhasoba899(at)gmail.com.