Application Deadline: November 30, 2014
The U.S. Department of Agriculture, in cooperation with the World Cocoa Foundation, is now accepting applications for the 2015 Global Cocoa Initiative under the auspices of the Norman E. Borlaug International Agricultural Science and Technology Fellowship Program. The Borlaug Program’s Global Cocoa Initiative provides fellows with skills and knowledge to help their countries become more competitive in producing and exporting cocoa and cocoa products.
Fellows from eligible countries in West Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean will work one-on-one with a mentor at a U.S. research institution for up to 12 weeks. The U.S. mentor will later visit the fellow’s home institution to continue collaboration. USDA and the World Cocoa Foundation will select the U.S. mentor and host institution for each fellow.
Eligible Countries:
West Africa: Cameroon, Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana, Nigeria
Research Priorities: Genomics, genetics and breeding, Plant propagation, methods Pests/diseases – entomology, plant pathology, and control methods – particularly for cocoa mirids, swollen shoot virus and black pod rot Soil fertility and plant nutrition Agroforestry. Climate Change – sustainable agriculture practices
Eligibility
To be considered for the Borlaug Fellowship Program, candidates must:
- Be citizens of an eligible country
- Be fluent in English
- Have completed a Master’s or higher degree
- Be in the early or middle stage of their career, with at least two years of practical experience
- Be employed by a university, government agency or research entity in their home country
- Demonstrate their intention to continue working in their home country after completing the fellowship
Application Requirements
Candidates must apply via the online application system (link below). The following information will be required:
- Completed application form
- 2-3 page program proposal and action plan
- Signed approval from applicant’s home institution
- Two letters of recommendation
- Official copy of transcript for college/university degree(s) received
- Copy of passport identification page
For More Information:
Visit the Official Webpage of the Borlaug Cocoa Fellowship
