Backing Ecologists of Sudan to Thrive (BEST) in Times of Crises

Call for Participation

We are delighted to announce the program ‘Backing Ecologists of Sudan to Thrive (BEST)’, a specialised component of the Academic Inspiration & Mentoring (AIM) Program for Sudanese Researchers. This program is designed to support young Sudanese ecologists who are navigating their academic careers amidst the ongoing political and environmental crises in Sudan.

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.

Program Components

Fundamentals of Ecology (20 - 26 October 2024):
A training workshop covering key concepts, theories, and methodology of ecology and conservation biology. Topics will include ecological research methodologies, biodiversity monitoring, and the use of remote sensing technologies.
Individual Research Project (27 October - 9 December 2024):
Over six weeks, participants will work on individual research projects under the guidance of experienced mentors. This phase includes detailed sessions on research design, data analysis, and science communication.
Final Symposium (19 December 2024):
A one-day virtual symposium where participants will present their research findings and showcase the skills they have developed during the program. This symposium will provide a platform for networking and knowledge exchange.
The program ‘Backing Ecologists of Sudan to Thrive’ (BEST) is designed to create an environment that fosters academic growth and helps Sudanese ecologists overcome contemporary challenges through direct interactions with peers and engaging discussions. This program will encourage participants to exchange ideas, explore innovative research avenues, and tackle ecological challenges in novel ways.
Beyond the academic training, BEST serves as an exceptional platform for international and interdisciplinary networking. The highly competitive program will offer 20 participants the opportunity to connect with leading Sudanese researchers around the globe, forging valuable relationships that can extend well beyond the program's duration. These connections will not only enhance their current research but also open doors to future collaborations and career opportunities.

Topics

Phase I

Research Planning in Time of Crises
Outreach and Science Communication
Effective Academic Networking & Collaboration Skills
E-Resources for Productive Academics
Scholarships & Grants Applications
Career Planning and Growth
Psychological Support and Wellness during a Challenging Time

Phase II
You can choose your preferred focus group

Research Planning and Proposal Writing
Data Collection and Analysis
Science Communication
Career Planning and Growth

Eligibility

PhD students in the fields of biology, agriculture, forestry, geography, and related environmental sciences.
Applicants should be Sudanese nationals currently residing in Sudan or in the diaspora.
Join us as we embark on this journey towards resilience in research and successful career paths!

Application Process & Required Documents

Interested candidates are invited to apply by 10 October 2024 to this link:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1f8ebXxo80sqrqYkrTluincgQKSEl0cvKZltPdId6a9w/
Please e-mail the following documents as a single PDF file:

Curriculum vitae (not more than two pages)
Copy of Master degree certificates
Recommendation letter from advisor or evidence of registration as PhD student
A sample of your previous research experience (ex. M.Sc. thesis)
Motivation letter (max. 250 words)

If you cannot use the Google form, kindly email us the above-required documents plus the application form (MS Word file) all together as a single PDF file at participation(at)agya.info.

By submitting your application via email, you consent to AGYA collecting and storing your data for the duration of the project. Kindly find more information about AGYA`s privacy policy here.

Only seleced participants will be notified by 15 October 2024.

For inquiries, kindly refer to Mr. Nasradeen A.H. Gabllah at nasri8025(at)gmail.com Mr. Ahmed Hasoba at ahmedhasoba899(at)gmail.com

Important Dates

10 October 2024: Application deadline
15 October 2024: Notification of selected participants
20 October 2024: Program start
19 December 2024: Program closing

Full text of the call

Call for Participation (PDF)

Members in Charge

Ahmed Siddig, University of Khartoum, Sudan & Harvard University, USA
Franziska Lissel, Hamburg University of Technology & Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research, Germany

The mentoring program is co-organized and delivered by a group of committed Sudanese and international scientists with outstanding research and mentoring experiences at excellent universities and research institutions around the world.