The GreenMatter Fellowship brings together a cohort of dynamic, talented and committed biodiversity practitioners, with the objective of developing and unlocking their potential. It affords participants the opportunity to fully engage in tackling biodiversity issues through their study and career paths, alongside peers who share in that commitment.
About GreenMatter
The need to strategically and comprehensively strengthen and diversify the human capital of South Africa's biodiversity sector is indicated in the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (2005) and the National Biodiversity Framework (2007). The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is mandated to lead this process in partnership with key role players. At the same time, the Lewis Foundation, a conservation non-governmental organisation (NGO), had realigned its funding focus. Through sector engagement, The Lewis Foundation identified that higher l...&... read more
Fellowship
| Application Deadline | 26 Feb 2023 |
| Country to study | South Africa |
| Type | Fellowship |
| Sponsor | GreenMatter |
| Gender | Men and Women |
Aim and Benefits of Fellowship
A GreenMatter postgraduate award provides holistic support in the form of:
a) a cash contribution towards costs of living, study fees, and research costs; and b) the opportunity to access mentoring support, career guidance and platforms to engage in learning networks.
Requirements for Fellowship Qualification
Applicants must be:
- A national of South Africa;
- In possession of an Undergraduate Degree
- Seeking funding for a full-time postgraduate programme at honours level;
- Able to motivate how your field of study aligns to the GreenMatter priority skill areas identified.
Interview date, Process and Venue for Fellowship
Selection Criteria
Your application will be assessed on the basis of the information given in the application form. We apply the following criteria: 1. Relevance in terms of priority skills Applicants are expected to articulate how their field of expertise and research topic aligns with the priority skills listed above. Please also ensure you have explained how your proposed research fits Applicants are expected to articulate how their field of expertise and research topic aligns with the priority skills listed above. Please also ensure you have explained how your proposed research fits with the specific focus areas to do with Biodiversity and Climate Change Adaptation; Biodiversity and water scarcity; Biodiversity and Food Security as well as Biodiversity and Social Change/Innovation. 2. Leadership Competencies Applicants will be asked to demonstrate how they have developed their leadership skills in academia, the workplace or in their personal life. Priority will be given to those who can describe an occasion/s in which they have used their skills to formulate a shared vision or strategy, build strategic relationships and networks, support peers and mentor others, and/or deliver results that have led to innovation and step changes. GreenMatter places a great deal of emphasis upon the leadership potential of individuals and may require awardees to contribute to the Fellowship by mentoring others or providing peer support. 3. Academic Record and References Applicants should have a minimum of an upper second-class (merit) degree and excellent references. 4. Transformation and Access to Opportunity GreenMatter has a strong transformation agenda and is looking to support black South African candidates where possible. Candidates are also asked to provide details of their financial situation. While we recognise that the GreenMatter bursaries are insufficient to provide for 100% of students costs, and will therefore complement other sources of support, we are looking to assist students that will otherwise struggle or face particular challenges in financing their studies. 5. Application form (Accessible at this link: http://www.greenmatterza.com/greenmatter-fellowship-callfor-applications.html) Applicants should: • Demonstrate a good command of the English language; • Answer all of the questions properly and completely; and • Complete the application and upload all supporting documents in a timely manner.
Documents Required for Application
The following supporting documents must be included and should be uploaded at the end of the form. Please make sure the documents are labelled accordingly. • Proof of South African citizenship; • Certified copy of degree certificate(s); • Certified academic transcripts; • Curriculum Vitae (CV) – List any and all work or volunteer experience; • Reference letters from two referees.
Application Deadline
February 26, 2023How to Apply
The application form is of primary importance as it serves as the basis for assessment. The form can be accessed at the following link: http://www.greenmatterza.com/greenmatter-fellowship-call-for-applications.html. The form should be completed and submitted via email to [email protected]. Please remember to fill in all sections of the form. If you experience any problems, questions can be emailed to [email protected] and will be responded to within 3 working days. Ideally, you should submit an academic reference and a reference from an employer. If you have never been employed, we will accept a reference from voluntary work, or two academic references. You should ask your referees to write a reference that relates to your application for this bursary and reflects how you meet the selection criteria. It should outline your strengths as an applicant, demonstrate your capacity to study at the level required, and identify your potential impact in the future. You can submit your references with all the other supporting documents or, should your referee prefer to submit their reference directly, ask them to email it to [email protected]. The subject of the email should state that it is a reference and comprise the name and surname of the applicant, e.g., Reference: LASTNAME, First name. Once your referee has submitted their reference we will email you a confirmation of receipt. It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that references are sent to us well before the deadline. Late references will not be considered.
For more details, visit GreenMatter website.