We are pleased to announce the call for applications to participate in the 2024 ProSPER.Net Young Researchers’ School (YRS). This year’s YRS will be held from 16 to 22 December 2024 in Colombo and Kandy, Sri Lanka, under the theme “Building Resilience: Integrating Nature-Based Solutions for Climate Change Mitigation.”
The 2024 YRS provides a unique opportunity for young scholars to explore innovative, nature-based approaches to climate change mitigation. Aligned with the principles of Action for Climate Empowerment (ACE) under the UNFCCC, the program aims to empower participants to contribute to global efforts in reducing GHG emissions, enhancing resilience, and promoting sustainable development. It will also foster synergy and knowledge exchange among participants, offering avenues for interdisciplinary research collaboration and action through interactive sessions, panel discussions, and workshops.
Furthermore, the 15th International Conference on Sustainable Built Environment, held from 20 to 22 December 2024 will offer YRS participants invaluable opportunities to deepen their knowledge and discuss cutting-edge, nature-inspired solutions for a sustainable future. This year’s YRS is co-organised by the University of Peradeniya and the United Nations University Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS), with support from gapHQ.
Objectives
This year’s YRS aims to:
- Design a blended learning-style workshop for young researchers from the Asia-Pacific region on the concept of nature-based solutions for climate change mitigation, combining traditional instructor-led training with collaborative groupworks and field visits
- Foster transdisciplinary research collaboration among participants, encouraging the exchange of ideas and the development of innovative approaches to climate change
- Empower young researchers with advanced knowledge, skills, and practical experience for effective climate action
Expected Outcomes:
Participants in the Young Researchers’ School will:
- Gain a comprehensive and actionable understanding of nature-based solutions for climate change mitigation and their critical role in advancing the 2030 Agenda.
- Develop advanced research skills and gain practical experience in designing and presenting research proposals.
- Promote interdisciplinary research collaboration by engaging with peers from diverse backgrounds.
- Translate theoretical knowledge into practical insights through hands-on field visits.
Concept note and Programme
Please find the provisional concept note and programme here for more details about this year’s YRS.
Language
The programme will be conducted in English.
Eligibility criteria:
Applicant for YRS must:
- Be currently enrolled as a master or doctoral student at a ProSPER.Net member university at the time of application
- Submit a recommendation letter from their direct supervisor within the application form.
Submission of application and due date
To apply, please complete the online application form, which includes:
- Recommendation Letter from your direct supervisor
- Curriculum Vitae (Max. 2 pages)
The submission deadline is 6 October 2024, 23:59 (Japanese Standard Time).
Please note that the online form does not support draft-saving. You may preview the form and prepare your responses in advance using the provided document template. Please adhere to the specified word limit for all responses.
*Please note that submissions after this deadline will not be considered.
Selection Criteria
Participants will be selected on the basis of written application according to the following criteria:
- Demonstrated academic and research experience related to sustainable development, climate change mitigation and/or nature-based solutions
- High level of understanding of program theme
- Proven ability to work effectively in diverse and interdisciplinary teams
- Strong personal motivation for participation in the programme
- Proficiency in written and spoken English language.
Provision of financial support
- A limited number of selected participants will be provided with a Daily Substance Allowance (DSA) per UNU regulations of USD 1,056 for the duration of your participation in the YRS programme (15–22 December 2024). The DSA will be disbursed after the completion of the programme. (Please note that the DSA amount may be subject to change based on the monthly rate set by UN regulations.)
- The DSA is intended to partially cover necessary costs for participating in the programme, including accommodation and meals. Any expenses exceeding this amount will be the responsibility of the participants themselves.
- Please note that purchasing a flight ticket, obtaining a visa (if necessary), and securing travel insurance are mandatory and must be arranged by the participants at their own expense. Participants are responsible for ensuring their passport is valid for a minimum period of six months from the date they arrive in Sri Lanka.
- Please refer to the detailed Terms and Conditions of UNU-IAS’s financial support here.
Accommodation:
All participants are requested to stay at designated accommodation arranged by the University of Peradeniya. Details will be shared at a later date.
Contact:
Should you have any questions, please contact ProSPER.Net Secretariat (yrs@unu.edu).