We are pleased to announce that the application for the 2024 Joan Wrench Kirstenbosch Scholarship Fund is now open.
The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) presents an exciting scholarship opportunity for aspiring postgraduate students. With the aim of fostering excellence in research that aligns with SANBI’s mission and research strategy, this scholarship is a golden ticket for individuals seeking to make an impact in the field of biodiversity.
SANBI Joan Wrench Kirstenbosch Scholarship Eligibility
Project Alignment:
- The chosen project should directly align with SANBI’s research strategy and be deemed a priority.
- If unsure about your project’s alignment, do connect with SANBI prior to application submission.
Candidate Criteria:
- Applicants should display proactive attitudes, a passion for research, and the desire to bring about positive change.
- Only South African citizens are eligible.
- Scholarships will be distributed in line with national equity targets.
- Aspiring scholars must independently apply and secure placement in university postgraduate programs. Having provisional acceptance from potential academic supervisors is mandatory. Do contact the designated SANBI supervisor for an endorsement before applying.
Conditions:
- Exclusive to full-time studies.
- Applicant age limit: Under 35.
- Students can enroll in any South African university.
- A compulsory 3-month stay in Western Cape annually for face-to-face consultations and fieldwork.
- Research, including field sites, should focus on the Western Cape.
- Employment at the time of application is not permitted.
- Previous studies or registration for a second postgraduate degree at the same level will not be entertained.
- If you already have partial scholarships or bursaries, the possibility of co-funding exists.
- Educational prerequisites: For Master’s, a prior Honours degree or Postgraduate Diploma is mandatory.
Scholarship Amounts:
- Honours: R120,000 (one-year tenure)
- Masters: R150,000 annually (two-year tenure)
- Doctoral: R180,000 annually (three-year tenure)
Note: Expenses associated with the research project will be addressed separately, with the amount contingent on the project specifics.
Application Procedure
- Required Documents:
- Standard application cover sheet form.
- Letter of interest.
- Comprehensive CV.
- Certified copies of academic transcripts and highest qualification.
- Copy of ID.
- Detailed project outline.
- Two academic reference letters.
- Letters from both university and SANBI supervisors indicating their willingness to supervise.
- Provisional university registration or application proof.
- Submission: Forward all the required documents to both students@sanbi.org.za and students.sanbi@gmail.com. Do ensure the subject line reads “Joan Wrench Kirstenbosch Scholarship studentships”.
Application Dates
- Closing: October 9, 2023, at 16:00.
- Notification: Successful candidates will be contacted by mid-November 2023.
