The Zoological Society of London’s EDGE of Existence Fellowship 2025/2027 for early-career conservationists.

Application Deadline:  7^th July 2024

The EDGE Fellowship is a 28-month fellowship for local early-career conservationists from lower- and middle-income countries.

Eligibility Requirements

Project
• The project must focus on species found on the 2024 curated EDGE list.
• Priority is given to EDGE species where limited research has been done and/or currently receives little or no conservation attention.
• Projects should fit into the following categories: (1) applied research and conservation planning; (2) implementation of recommended conservation actions.
• EDGE fellowships must include both an ecological and a social component. Therefore, we look for both in a successful application.

Applicant
• Fellowships are aimed at early-career (less than ten years paid experience) conservationists. No formal qualifications are required, but preference will be given to candidates with at least an undergraduate degree in a relevant subject or equivalent experience.

• Applicants should be nationals and/or residents of the country where the proposed focal species occurs.

Each fellowship involves a comprehensive programme of support and professional development opportunities comprising:

• Six weeks of training in person: A four-week Conservation Tools Course in the focal region and an advanced two-week Conservation Impact Course in the UK, plus access to additional online training;
• A grant of at least £10,000 for project implementation: The opportunity to fully manage your own budget plus dedicated support to leverage additional funding; and
• Continuous mentorship and access to training and coaching opportunities with ZSL and our partners: Wrap around mentorship and access to unique training and coaching opportunities with ZSL and our partners.

Selection Criteria

Successful projects must:

• Contribute to the vision of the EDGE of Existence programme.
• Propose appropriate research and relevant conservation actions.
• Maximise stakeholder participation.
• Have strong in-country support.
• Provide evidence the project will contribute toward a more favourable conservation status for the species.
• Demonstrate feasibility and value for money.
• Highlight the individual’s leadership quality and dedication to conserving the species

EDGE Fellowship Documentation All applications must include the following documentation:

• Completed and signed application form.
• A map of the project site.
• A copy of your CV (no more than two A4 sides).
• A recent photograph of yourself.
• A copy of your risk assessment (using the ZSL template).
• Evidence of English competency (only if English is not your first language).
• If applicable, you must provide proof of your SCUBA diving skills (a scanned copy of your qualification card/certificate is sufficient).

More Info: EDGE Fellowship