The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) offers the Joan Wrench Scholarship which is a prestigious opportunity to pursue postgraduate studies in fields related to biodiversity conservation.
This scholarship, named after the renowned botanist and conservationist Dr. Joan Margaret Knight-Wrench, empowers promising individuals to contribute meaningfully to protecting our nation’s rich ecological tapestry.
About the SANBI Joan Wrench Scholarship
Established in 2004, the Joan Wrench Scholarship fosters the next generation of conservation leaders. It provides financial support for postgraduate studies in various fields, including:
- BSc/BA Honours: Environmental or Conservation fields, or Bachelor’s in Education with Environmental Education specialization.
- MSc: Species assessment & Genetic monitoring, Botany, Conservation Biology.
- PhD: Plant taxonomy, Science-based policy advice linked to biodiversity and climate change adaptation.
The scholarship covers tuition fees, a monthly stipend, and research project running expenses.
It offers a unique platform to conduct research under the guidance of experienced SANBI scientists, gaining invaluable practical experience alongside theoretical knowledge.
SANBI Joan Wrench Scholarship Application Form
To apply for this prestigious scholarship, eligible candidates must submit a comprehensive application package by the closing date.
The application form can be downloaded from the SANBI website. Remember, applications sent via online portals are not accepted.
Here’s what you need to include in your application:
- Standard application cover sheet: Downloadable from the SANBI website.
- Letter of interest: Briefly explain your academic background, research interests, and career aspirations. Highlight how the scholarship aligns with your goals and how you envision contributing to conservation.
- Full CV: Include your academic achievements, work experience, and any relevant skills or awards.
- Certified copies of academic records: Transcripts and certificates of your highest qualification.
- ID and driver’s license copies: Certified copies of your South African ID and driver’s license.
- Project outline (for MSc/PhD): Briefly describe your proposed research project, including its objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes.
- Two letters of academic reference: From academics familiar with your work and potential.
- Letter from prospective supervisor: A letter from a SANBI scientist willing to supervise your research (for MSc/PhD).
- Provisional registration (for PhD): Proof of provisional registration for your PhD program.
Once you’ve compiled all the necessary documents, submit them as a single PDF file via email to [email protected] with “Joan Wrench Scholarship Fund [Your Degree Level]” in the subject line.
The SANBI Joan Wrench Scholarship Requirements
To be eligible for the SANBI Joan Wrench Scholarship, you must meet the following requirements:
- South African citizenship: You must be a South African citizen.
- Age limit: You must be under 35 years old at the time of application.
- Academic qualifications:
- BSc/BA Honours: Minimum of 70% average in your Honours degree.
- MSc: Minimum of 70% average in your MSc degree.
- PhD: Master’s degree with relevant research experience.
- University registration: You must be registered at a South African university for the relevant degree program.
- Western Cape residency: You must be based in the Western Cape for at least three months of each year of study for field work and consultations with SANBI supervisors.
- Project focus: Your research project must focus on the Western Cape and align with SANBI’s mandate and research strategy.
- Employment status: You cannot be employed at the time of application.
- Existing studies: Existing studies will not be supported. Applications for a second Honours, Masters, or Doctoral degree will not be considered.
The SANBI Joan Wrench Scholarship Closing Date
The closing date for the last SANBI Joan Wrench Scholarship application cycle was on Wednesday, 18 October 2023.
For any inquiries regarding the next SANBI Joan Wrench Scholarship application cycle, you can contact Dr. Ferozah Conrad at [email protected] or Ms. René du Toit at [email protected].