Women in Environmental Science Training (WEST- 2026)

Empowering the Next Generation of Women Environmental Leaders

The Women in Environmental Science Training Program (WEST–2026) is a fully funded six-month hybrid training and internship program designed to support and strengthen women’s participation in ecology, environmental science, and sustainability research across India.

Supported through the British Ecological Society Research Equity Fund, (RE: Research Equity Fund 2026  – EF26/1174 to Mr. Jishnu Panamoly Ayyappan - Founder and Director ECOR Foundation) WEST–2026 focuses on building practical ecological skills, research capacity, scientific communication, and professional networks for women students and early researchers. 

The program combines:

1. Online learning and mentoring

2. Hands-on ecological training

3. Research workshops in Kerala

4. Field-based assignments

5. Scientific writing and publication support

Only 20 women participants from across India will be selected for the 2026 cohort.

About WEST–2026

WEST–2026 aims to reduce barriers faced by women entering environmental and ecological sciences by providing structured mentorship, field exposure, and research training in an inclusive and collaborative learning environment.

The program is designed for motivated undergraduate and postgraduate students who are passionate about:

1. Ecology

2. Biodiversity conservation

3. Climate and sustainability

4. Environmental monitoring

5. Nature-based research

6. Community ecology

7. Scientific communication

Participants will gain practical experience in ecological methods while developing long-term research and professional skills.

Program Highlights

Fully Funded Opportunity

1. No application fee

2. No program fee

3. Training support provided

4. Workshop participation support included

Hybrid Learning Model

1.  Online sessions throughout the program

2.  In-person ecology workshops and field training in Kerala

Hands-on Ecology Training

Participants will receive practical exposure to:

1. Biodiversity assessment

2. Field ecology techniques

3. Ecological data collection

4. Environmental monitoring

5. Scientific documentation

6. Research ethics and reporting

Mentorship & Research Guidance

1. Guidance from researchers and environmental professionals

2. Career development support

3. Scientific writing mentorship

Publication & Assignment Support

Participants will complete:

1. A post-internship assignment/project

2. A scientific article, report, or publication-oriented output

Eligibility

Applicants must: Identify as women

Be currently pursuing or recently completed:

1. Undergraduate (UG) studies, or

2. Postgraduate (PG) studies

3. Have an interest in ecology, environment, sustainability, or conservation

4. Be available for the full six-month duration

5. Be willing to actively participate in online sessions and workshops

6. Commit to regular reporting and assignment submission

Students from all regions of India are encouraged to apply.

Program Structure

Duration : 6 Months

Mode : Hybrid (Online + Offline)

Offline Component

Hands-on ecology workshops and field training sessions in Kerala.

1. Learning Components

2. Expert lectures

3. Research discussions

4. Field methods training

5. Group activities

6. Ecological data analysis

7. Scientific communication workshops

8. Mentorship sessions

Participant Expectations

Selected participants are expected to:

1. Attend scheduled sessions regularly

2. Participate actively in discussions and training

3. Complete assigned tasks and reports on time

4. Maintain professional conduct throughout the program

5. Contribute to collaborative learning activities

Completion certificates will be awarded only to participants who successfully fulfill all program requirements.

Why WEST–2026 Matters

Women continue to remain underrepresented in several areas of environmental and ecological sciences. WEST–2026 is designed to create equitable access to scientific training, mentorship, and research opportunities for women across India.

The program emphasizes:

1. Capacity building

2. Research equity

3. Skill development

4. Inclusive scientific participation

5. Long-term academic and professional growth

The initiative aligns with the goals of the British Ecological Society Research Equity Fund, which supports projects that strengthen ecological research capacity and improve equitable participation in science. 

Important Dates

| Activity               | Timeline        

| Applications Open      | 20 May, 2026 

| Application Deadline   | 30 May, 2026 

| Selection Announcement | 5 June, 2026 

| Program Start        | June 08, 2026  

Interested candidates will be required to submit the application through the application portal.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Contact

For queries, collaborations, or partnership opportunities:

WEST–2026 Program 

Principal Investigator (PI)

Jishnu Panamoly Ayyappan

Email: Jp@ecorf.org.in

Website:+919061692626

Location: Kerala, India