UNESCO is receiving Expressions of Interest for research projects led by geoscientists based in African institutions.
UNESCO’s International Geoscience Programme (IGCP) is inviting Expressions of Interest for research projects led by geoscientists based in African institutions. This initiative aligns with current UNESCO and International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS) priorities to strengthen geoscience research in Africa. A recent IUGS Africa meeting in Nairobi resulted in the development of a 10-Point Action Plan for African Geoscience. Its priorities were to expand geoscience research, capacity building, and knowledge-sharing across the continent.
In line with this plan, UNESCO is committing to funding large-scale projects by region, starting with Africa.
How to apply
Interested applicants must submit an Expression of Interest by 2 May 2025. The submission must include:
- Project title
- List of main project leader and co-leaders, including their countries and affiliations
- Project description (500 words), covering:
- Statement of the research problem
- Objectives and goals
- Methodologies
- Deliverables
- Timeline
- Funding amount sought from IGCP
- Description of how IGCP funding will be used (300 words)
- Description of how the project relates to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and Africa’s development agenda, such as Agenda 2063 (200 words)
- A list of possible partner institutions not already indicated in point 2 (e.g. relevant research institutes, NGOs, private sector etc.) that the project would hope to involve, along with their potential contributions, including financial support
- Up to five relevant publications authored or co-authored by the project leader(s)
- A maximum five-page CV of the project leader(s), including:
- A list of any previous research grants
- A complete list of publications
- Completed and current Master’s and Doctoral students with thesis titles
All items must be submitted as a single PDF file to the IGGP Secretariat at iggp@unesco.org.
The IGCP Council will review all Expressions of Interest and invite promising projects to submit a full proposal for further evaluation.
Selection criteria
Projects should meet the following criteria:
- Align with at least one of the six IGCP themes:
- Earth resources
- Global change and the evolution of life
- Geohazards
- Hydrogeology
- Geodynamics
- Geoheritage
- Demonstrate ability to achieve project goals within the planned project period and with the requested funding
- Connection to UNESCO and IUGS priorities for Africa
- Inclusion of capacity-building activities such as workshops, field trips, and/or the training of at least one graduate student (Master’s or Doctoral) and/or supporting postdoctoral researchers, early career professionals, local communities, etc.
- Provide details of existing funding and potential funding sources, if applicable
Project leaders must:
- Hold a PhD or equivalent degree
- Be currently employed at a relevant African institution (e.g. university, research centre, geological survey)
Funding
Successful projects may receive up to 50,000 USD for an initial one-year period, with the possibility of renewal for up to four years. Funding levels after year one will be at the discretion of the IGCP Council, based on satisfactory progress and fund availability.
Funds may be used for:
- Fieldwork expenses
- Laboratory analyses
- Travel expenses for scientific meetings, including for graduate students working on their thesis under the research project
Funds may not be used for:
- Stipends or salaries
- Purchase of computer hardware, software, or laboratory equipment
- Publication fees
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