Government officials and mid-level professionals from developing nations have a rare opportunity to receive advanced training in ocean affairs and the law of the sea through the United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship. Important subjects covered by this fellowship include international legal frameworks, marine science, and sustainable ocean management best practices. Through practical research and academic mentoring, participants also acquire professional skills.
Fellows are expected to carry out independent study and write a thesis on a chosen subject. Following the fellowship, participants go back to their home countries to use what they’ve learned to develop projects that support sustainable ocean management under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, implement legal frameworks, and shape ocean policy.
Host Country: USA
Host: United Nations
Duration: 9 months
Benefits: Fully Funded
Deadline: 22 March 2026
Advantages:-
The Program Addresses:
- monthly allowance
- Travel assistance
- Accommodations
- Health coverage
Eligibility Criteria:-
- You have to be in the 25–40 age range;
- You must be a mid-level professional from a national government organ of a developing state or another governmental or non-governmental agency in such a state that deals directly with ocean affairs issues, and your position must enable you to directly assist your country in the formulation and/or implementation of policy in this area.
- You must also have successfully completed your first university degree and show that you are capable of conducting independent advanced academic research and study.
- This covers the relationship between science and policy as well as marine sciences.A government official or another official who can attest to the nature of your work with regard to the government’s ocean affairs and law of the sea-related activities should fill out your “Nomination and Recommendation Form” and specify how an award would directly support these activities;
- Unless otherwise permitted by the Division, your proposed research and study program must directly contribute to the development and/or implementation of ocean affairs and law of the sea policies and programs in your country.
- Additionally, you must be free from all non-Fellowship obligations for the duration of the Fellowship.
- In order to achieve gender parity in the selection process, women candidates are encouraged to apply.
How to Apply?
- Carefully prepare your application materials, such as your resume, academic records, and a personal statement emphasizing your interest in marine research and ocean affairs.
- Only candidates from developing nations are eligible, therefore if necessary, get a nomination from your government or supporting body.
- Choose a research topic in ocean affairs or the law of the sea that fits both the fellowship’s objectives and your professional aspirations.
- Fill out the online application form completely, uploading supporting documents and supplying all required information.
- Make sure all the materials are inspected and complete before submitting your application.
- As part of the selection process, those who have been shortlisted will be contacted for interviews or further evaluations.
- The chosen fellows will get comprehensive instructions for making travel plans, applying for visas, and getting ready to leave.
