UK Seabed Resources Ltd Training Programme

UPDATE (20 July 2015) [Closed]

The list of candidates selected for the UKSR Training Programme (ISBA/21/LTC/14) are as listed below:

(a) PhD Training Programme in Polymetallic Nodules

1. Wycliff Tupiti (Solomon Islands) - First ranked candidate
2. Felix Nshimiyimana (Rwanda)  - Alternate

(b) PhD Training Programme in Deep Sea Marine Biology

1. Kirsty McQuaid (South Africa) - First ranked candidate
2. Beatriz Eugenia Mejia Mercado (Mexico) - Alternate

As part of its training proposal and in line with its Contract for Exploration for Polymetallic Nodules with the International Seabed Authority, the UK Seabed Resources Ltd has contracted Plymouth University to provide training opportunities for two trainees from Developing States in 2015. 

One trainee will receive on-land training in the analysis of polymetallic nodules using advanced imaging and analysis techniques while the second will receive training in deep sea marine biology. 

Schedule of the training programme
Both PhD training programmes are planned for October 1st 2015 with a duration of 4 years each.

General qualification of candidates

• Candidates for the PhD training programme in polymetallic nodules should hold a degree and masters qualification in a relevant subject such as geochemistry, chemistry, mineralogy or environmental science, or equivalent education acceptable to Plymouth University.
• Candidates for the PhD training programme in deep sea marine biology should hold a degree and masters qualification in a relevant subject, preferably marine biology, or equivalent education acceptable to Plymouth University. It is desirable that the candidate have work experience in a relevant field, such as experience of undertaking benthic surveys, use of GIS, statistical modelling, and/or skills in species identification. The ability to be able to go to sea for up to 2 months is highly recommended. 
• Both candidates should also meet the entry requirements for Plymouth University, have the ability to read and write English to a level of at least IELTS 6.5, be in good health, and be able to provide two satisfactory written reports from academic referees. ​

Cost-bearing
UK Seabed Resources Ltd. will bear the costs of the two training programmes through a grant to Plymouth University. Funds from the Grant will be used to discharge all fees and expenses incurred by the trainees in connection with their participation in the relevant training programme (including the costs of training, accommodation, meals and other incidentals, passport and visa, transport, travel, insurance, materials, fieldwork, incidental study expenses and each student’s union or guild fees). UK Seabed Resources Ltd. will additionally provide a berth for each student on a research cruise to the Clarion-Clipperton Zone.

Deadline for Nomination
The deadline for Nominations is 20 June 2015. Applicants should email the Nomination Form ( docx | pdf ),  together with their CV and covering letter, two written reports from academic referees and any other supporting certificates and relevant material. Nominations received after that date will not be considered. The Nomination Form should to be completed by a senior official of an institution or government authority and could be emailed by the candidate to training@isa.org.jm .
 
Selection
The trainees will be selected by the Legal and Technical Commission at its meetings in July 2015, in consultation with UK Seabed Resources Ltd. and Plymouth University.

Further information
For further information on the training programme, please see Proposal for Two Training Programmes in 2015-2019 submitted by UK Seabed Resources Ltd and the Plymouth University webpage