IOCCG Platt Scholarship 2026 for Ocean Color Research and Training

The International Ocean Colour Coordinating Group (IOCCG) has officially announced the launch of the IOCCG Trevor Platt Memorial Scholarship 2026, also known as the Platt Scholarship. This prestigious opportunity is designed to honour the legacy of Professor Trevor Platt (1942–2020), a pioneer in biological oceanography and remote sensing, while supporting the next generation of ocean researchers.

About the Scholarship

The Platt Scholarship provides one outstanding graduate student or early-career scientist from a developing country or economy in transition with the chance to receive world-class training and research experience abroad.

The scholarship offers up to USD $5000 in funding to cover essential costs such as:

• Travel and flights
• Visa and insurance
• Accommodation and food expenses

Recipients will spend up to three months at a host institute outside their home country, working with experts in the field of ocean optics, ocean color science, or inland water remote sensing. Longer stays may be considered if well justified, provided costs remain within the USD $5000 limit.

Eligibility

To apply, candidates must:

• Be a citizen and resident of one of the eligible developing or transition economy countries.
• Be a graduate student or an early-career scientist (within 5 years of receiving a PhD).
• Propose a well-defined research project or structured training program that aligns with IOCCG objectives.

Applicants are expected to:

• Secure a host supervisor and acceptance letter from a recognized foreign institute.
• Submit a strong academic CV, personal statement, and letters of recommendation.
• Demonstrate how their project will benefit both themselves and their home institution.

Selection Process

Applications will be assessed by an IOCCG evaluation committee based on:

• The scientific merit and relevance of the proposed research or training.
• The applicant’s academic background and professional potential.
• The suitability of the chosen host institute.

The Dates You Need to Know

The application portal will open on 12 August 2025 and will remain open until 12 November 2025.
The scholarship winner will be announced by February 2026.

How to Apply

Applicants must prepare the following documents before submitting the online form (https://ioccg.org/what-we-do/training-and-education/platt-scholarship/):

• A recommendation letter from their home institute supervisor.
• A letter of acceptance & recommendation from the host institute.
• A brief CV (1–2 pages).
• A personal statement outlining goals and motivation.
• A research or training proposal with a detailed budget.

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