The Montagne Fiorentine Model Forest (MFMF), on behalf of the Mediterranean Model Forest Network Secretariat managed by Tuscany Region proudly announces a scholarship opportunity aimed at advancing sustainable forest management and environmental collaboration in Mediterranean regions. This unique scholarship, funded by Canada’s Global Forest Leadership Program, will provide a €17,000 stipend over 15 months (January 2025 - March 2026) to foster innovative research and action for the restoration of Mediterranean landscapes.
This initiative embodies the mission of the Model Forest concept, originating in Canada and expanded to the Mediterranean area by the MMFN, which focuses on ecological resilience, community engagement, and the bioeconomy. Through this scholarship, MMFN seeks to advance environmental protection, sustainable forest management, and practical applications for ecological challenges in the region. The scholarship reflects the MMFN’s commitment to equipping future leaders to address critical environmental issues, from climate change to biodiversity loss.
Latest updates
On December 12, 2024, the Secretariat of the Mediterranean Model Forest Network (MMFN) officially appointed the members of the selection commission for the scholarship.
On December 16, 2024, following the evaluation of the received applications, the commission decided to invite all candidates who meet the requirements outlined in the call for applications published on 5 November 2024.
The selected candidates will advance to the second stage, which involves online interviews. Notifications will be sent directly to the candidates' provided email addresses. The interviews are scheduled for 23 December, starting at 9:30 a.m. (CET).
Scholarship Objectives and Benefits
The scholarship emphasizes practical, research-driven contributions to Mediterranean landscape and forest restoration. It will empower the selected candidate to develop, implement, and share innovative practices across MMFN’s network, strengthening international partnerships and local environmental action.
Eligibility and Application Requirements
The scholarship is open to young professionals under 30 from MMFN member regions with a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies, Forestry, Ecology, or related disciplines.
Candidates must demonstrate experience in forest or landscape restoration and familiarity with digital tools relevant to the field. English proficiency at a B2 level, verified by IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge English certificates, is required; those with degrees taught entirely in English are exempt. Priority will be given to applicants from specific model forests in Algeria, Morocco, and Lebanon. Evaluation criteria include academic qualifications, professional experience, and an interview to assess scientific and technical skills relevant to forest restoration.
Applicants should submit the following documents via email to Cette adresse e-mail est protégée contre les robots spammeurs. Vous devez activer le JavaScript pour la visualiser. by December 6, 2024:
- A European-format CV,
- An abstract of their degree thesis,
- Proof of English proficiency, and
- A valid passport copy.
The selection process, conducted by a commission appointed by the MMFN Secretariat, will assess applications based on qualifications and an interview, with 100 total points allocated.
A minimum of 60 points is required for eligibility, with additional points awarded to candidates from forest model communities in Algeria, Morocco, and Lebanon. Results will be communicated to applicants via email, and the final list will be published on MMFN’s website.
Scholarship Conditions
The scholarship provides €17,000 in equal monthly installments over 15 months, covering all expenses, including any required site visits. To ensure focus on the scholarship’s objectives, the grantee must confirm they will not receive other financial allowances or hold employment during this period. The scholarship does not imply an employment relationship but rather serves as a professional training opportunity.
Scholarship Activities and Responsibilities
The grantee will collaborate closely with MMFN representatives through remote and, if possible, in-person meetings, conducting research, and sharing insights with the broader MMFN network. Research findings, strategies, and innovative practices developed under this scholarship will be disseminated across the Mediterranean, contributing to MMFN’s vision of resilient and sustainable Mediterranean forests.
Applications must be received by December 6, 2024, at 18:00 CET. For further details, contact Cette adresse e-mail est protégée contre les robots spammeurs. Vous devez activer le JavaScript pour la visualiser. or visit www.medmodelforest.net.
Contact Information
Mediterranean Forest Model Network
Email: Cette adresse e-mail est protégée contre les robots spammeurs. Vous devez activer le JavaScript pour la visualiser.