Alfred Toepfer Natural Heritage Scholarships 2019 is funds promising young conservationists, who are committed to working for the benefit of Protected Areas. The aim of the scholarships is to enhance international cooperation and to advance the quality, innovation and European dimension of Protected Area management. The scholarship is a joint initiative of the  the EUROPARC Federation, with support from the Alfred Toepfer Stiftung F.V.S.

While there are many opportunities for students to get scholarships to improve their skills abroad, there are few for those who have already entered the working world. However, the management of a protected areas is complex and constantly challenged by new issues, most of them of a global scale. EUROPARC believes that networking among professionals can greatly improve the management of protected areas. Hence, the aim of this scholarship is to give the opportunity to those young professionals. Moreover, it provides them the chance to improve their skills and learn from other professionals by carrying out study visits to protected areas across Europe.

Scholarship Benefits

• The award will be worth EUR 3.000 to each of the 3 successful candidates.
• The scholarship covers your travel costs to one or more protected areas in Europe. Visiting different countries enables you to gather new perspectives and deepen your subject of study.
• Furthermore, the award ceremony will be inLatvia, at EUROPARC Conference 2019, between the 24th – 27th September. The Alfred Toepfer Stiftung E.V.S will generously cover your travel expenses and participation at the largest gathering of Protected Areas professionals. In addition, you will get plenty of opportunities to learn, network and share experience on this exciting topic.

Eligibility

The call is open to all young professionals working in topics related to Protected Areas in Europe. However, you must

• be under 35
• have a European nationality
• be employed by a Protected Area or nature conservation organisation

Furthermore, after the trip, the scholars need to present the Federation their findings in a report and a short film.

Applying

Candidates must submit the following in order to apply:

• Online application form
• Proof of employment