Applications are now open for the Blue Carbon Hub Early Career Ocean Professionals (ECOP) Program 2026, a fully supported professional development opportunity for emerging researchers and practitioners from Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) Member States.

The eight-week programme will be hosted at the Indian Ocean Marine Research Centre in Perth, Australia, providing participants with the opportunity to work alongside leading experts while developing projects focused on blue carbon science, policy, or finance.

Designed to strengthen regional expertise and collaboration, the programme supports professionals committed to protecting, restoring, and sustainably managing coastal ecosystems across the Indian Ocean region.

Programme Overview

• Programme: Blue Carbon Hub Early Career Ocean Professionals (ECOP) Program 2026
• Host Institution: Indian Ocean Marine Research Centre
• Location: Perth, Australia
• Programme Duration: 5 October – 27 November 2026
• Application Deadline: 7 August 2026
• Notification of Results: By 31 August 2026
• Funding: Fully Supported

What Participants Will Do

During the programme, participants will:

• Develop and implement an individual project in blue carbon science, policy, or finance.
• Work alongside experts at the Indian Ocean Marine Research Centre.
• Strengthen technical and professional skills related to blue carbon ecosystems.
• Contribute practical solutions that support the protection, restoration, and sustainable management of coastal ecosystems.
• Exchange knowledge and collaborate with professionals from IORA Member States.

Areas of Interest

Projects may focus on topics including:

• Blue carbon ecosystems.
• Coastal ecosystem restoration.
• Marine conservation.
• Climate change mitigation.
• Sustainable coastal management.
• Blue carbon finance.
• Environmental policy.
• Ocean governance.
• Nature-based solutions.

Why Apply?

The ECOP Program provides early career professionals with an opportunity to strengthen their technical expertise while contributing to innovative solutions for coastal conservation and climate action. Through collaborative research, mentorship, and international networking, participants will gain valuable experience that supports both professional growth and regional efforts to protect blue carbon ecosystems.

Eligible applicants from IORA Member States are encouraged to submit their applications before 7 August 2026 to be considered for this fully supported programme in Australia.