The Half-Earth Project, in collaboration with the E.O. Wilson Biodiversity Laboratory in Gorongosa National Park, is seeking highly motivated Mozambican researchers and recent graduates interested in receiving advanced training in taxonomy and biodiversity exploration. The first iteration of the training, available cost-free to Mozambican participants, will focus on the taxonomy, identification, and biogeography of vascular plants. Successful applicants will be offered a 3-month fellowship at the herbarium in Gorongosa N.P., during which time they will receive intensive scientific training from leading international botanists. The training will include identification, classification, and distribution of African plants, with a focus on the flora of central Mozambique. It will also include an introduction to GIS and species mapping, biological databases, and herbarium management. A part of the training will include fieldwork in Gorongosa N.P. and surrounding areas. The training will be conducted in English and thus good comprehension of spoken and written English is required. Successful applicants will be offered a return plane ticket from their place of origin to Beira, free accommodation and meals in Gorongosa National Park, and a modest stipend for the duration of their fellowship. The application process is highly competitive, and the fellowship is currently limited to two persons. Applications will be received until May 15th, 2021.
“We are hoping to help train the next generation of taxonomic experts and conservationists in Mozambique, one of the most biodiverse countries on the African continent. The country’s exceptional biological richness deserves and needs to be protected, both for the benefit of future generations and for the immediate, positive impact it has on the livelihood of the stakeholders in Mozambique. The Half-Earth Project Fellowship provides the highest quality training in biodiversity exploration and documentation to local biologists and conservationists and ensures that the natural richness of this country will receive the attention it deserves. Comprehensive understanding and mapping of biodiversity is a prerequisite to its effective conservation, and this program will have a significant impact towards improving this goal in Mozambique and throughout the region.” – Dr. Piotr Naskrecki, Half-Earth Chair, Associate Director, E.O. Wilson Lab at Gorongosa National park
