ISA – Egypt Joint Training and Research Centre (ISA – Egypt JTRC) Training Programme on the scientific and technical aspects related to regional environmental management planning in the Area for the Indian Ocean

20 Sep 2026 - 24 Sep 2026

Background

Pursuant to its mandate under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), in particular article 145 on the protection of the marine environment, the International Seabed Authority (ISA) has been progressively developing Regional Environmental Management Plans (REMPs) as key instruments for ensuring the effective protection of the marine environment from activities in the Area. To further facilitate the development of REMPs in various regions.  in July 2025, the Council of the Authority, upon recommendation of the Legal and Technical Commission, adopted the standardized procedure for the development, establishment and review of REMPs, marking an important milestone in the policy framework.

In response to capacity development needs expressed by Member States, and in line with the ISA Capacity Development Strategy and the Marine Scientific Research Action Plan, the ISA Secretariat is pleased to launch a call for applications to participate in the Training Programme on the scientific and technical aspects related to REMPs , to be hosted by the ISA – Egypt Joint Training and Research Centre. The training forms part of the projects supported by the ISA Partnership Fund and implemented in collaboration with ISA Joint Training and Research Centres and leading scientific institutions.

Training objectives

The training programme aims to:

• Strengthen scientific and technical capacity of participants to contribute effectively to the development, implementation and review of REMPs.
• Enhance knowledge of scientific theories and concepts, best available techniques, and data sources used in REMP processes.
• Foster regional and international scientific cooperation, with particular emphasis on developing States.
• Promote the participation and empowerment of women and early career researchers in deep-sea related disciplines.

 Training structure

The training will be delivered through a blended learning approach will comprise of an online phase and an in-person training phase:

1. Deep Dive online phase

Selected participants will take part in a one-month self-paced online training through a dedicated Deep Dive eLearning module on REMPs, covering policy context, scientific foundations, and methodological approaches.

2. In-person training workshop from 20-24 September, 2026, in Alexandria, Egypt)

The in-person training phase will take place over a period of 1 week. It will entail:

• Practical training in scientific techniques and analytical tools and methods relevant to REMPs.
• Case studies from the Clarion Clipperton Zone, Mid-Atlantic Ridge, Northwest Pacific and the Indian Ocean region on the regional environmental planning processes and the scientific data and analytical methods developed to support such processes.
• Visits and laboratory session in state-of-the-art laboratories and research and development facilities at the National Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries (NIOF).
• Lectures by leading experts on the characteristics of the marine environment in the Indian Ocean, and the implications for regional environmental management planning in the region.
• Interactive exchanges with experts from ISA Secretariat, the Legal and Technical Commission, Joint Training and Research Centres and partner institutions.
• Learning from other participants about their experiences in national, regional and international processes related to environmental planning.

Participation in the in-person training phase is dependent on successful and timely completion of the Deep Dive E-learning training.

 Eligibility Criteria

• Nationals of an ISA developing Member State, including least developed countries, landlocked developing countries, geographically disadvantaged States and small island developing States.
• Educational background in marine biology, marine geology, ecology, oceanography, or related fields, with preference for applicants holding advanced degrees. Applicants with a bachelor’s degree and at least two years of relevant experience will also be considered.
• Researchers, scientists, early to midcareer professionals, or officials working in fields related to marine science, biodiversity, environmental management, spatial planning or ocean governance.
• Proven knowledge or experience in area-based management or marine spatial planning and ability to understand and analyse environmental data for management or policy discussions.
• Strong consideration will be given to qualified female candidates and early to mid-career professionals, in line with the Authority’s commitment to gender equality and inclusive capacity development.

 Selection Process

Applications will be reviewed by a selection committee composed of representatives of the ISA Secretariat and the ISA–Egypt JTRC. Selection will be based on:

• Relevance of professional background to the objectives of the training.
• Potential contribution to national or regional capacity development.
• Geographic and gender balance.

Financial Support

A limited number of participants will receive financial support to attend the in-person training, covering return economy class air ticket, accommodation and meals during the training period.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are invited to submit an application by completing the application form available on this link: ISA/Egypt JTRC Training Programme – Fill out form

• Upload a curriculum vitae on the link provided in the application form
• Upload a letter of nomination from your institute/employer

The application deadline

10 June 2026

Contact

Capacity-development@isa.org.jm