About the Ires Opportunity

The International Research Experiences for Students (IRES) programme invites applications for the 2026 “Nature-based Solutions for Water Security in South Africa” initiative. This fully funded research internship offers undergraduate or early graduate students a rare chance to join a global research team tackling real-world water challenges through ecological and sustainable approaches. If you are passionate about environmental science, water security, and hands-on field research, this role is an excellent opportunity to build experience, contribute to meaningful work, and grow professionally.

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Programme Overview

Selected participants will collaborate with U.S. and South African researchers to study how nature-based solutions — such as watershed management, ecological restoration, and green infrastructure — can improve water availability and quality in South Africa. The internship includes virtual training, cultural orientation, a five-week field project, and a post-fieldwork professional development phase.

Benefits include fully covered travel, lodging, and food during fieldwork, a stipend of USD 3,250, and support for presenting your research at professional conferences. You will also gain hands-on experience in hydrology, GIS, ecological monitoring, and water-security research.

What You Will Do

• Participate in virtual training covering hydrology, GIS, ecological assessment, and research methods.
• Travel to South Africa for a five-week field project, working on water security challenges in local ecosystems.
• Collect ecological and hydrological data, monitor water catchments, and assess ecological health of natural water systems.
• Collaborate with international and local researchers, contributing to data analysis, reporting, and research synthesis.
• Participate in post-fieldwork training on scientific communication, data visualization, and presentation skills.
• Present your findings at conferences or workshops, contributing to global dialogue on water security and ecological solutions.

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What We Are Looking For

• Undergraduate or graduate students currently studying environmental science, ecology, hydrology, geography, or related fields.
• Commitment to remain enrolled through December 2026.
• Strong academic record and a keen interest in nature-based solutions, water security, and environmental sustainability.
• Willingness to travel internationally and adapt to cross-cultural teamwork.
• Ability to collaborate, learn quickly, and work in challenging field conditions.
• A faculty reference supporting your application.

Why This Internship Matters

Water scarcity and ecosystem degradation are growing threats in many parts of the world. Nature-based solutions offer a resilient and sustainable path to safeguarding water supply and ecosystem health. By joining this internship, you contribute directly to research that may influence policy, conservation strategies, and ecological planning for vulnerable communities. The experience could shape your career path — whether in environmental science, resource management, or international research.

Skills You Will Build

• Field research and data collection in ecology and hydrology
• GIS and spatial analysis for ecological assessment
• Scientific writing, data visualization, and presentation skills
• Cross-cultural collaboration and international research practices
• Critical thinking about sustainable water management and ecological restoration

Application Process & Timeline

• Submit a completed online application form
• Provide a personal or background statement explaining your interest in nature-based water security research
• Attach a faculty letter of recommendation

The cohort is limited; early applications are encouraged.

Who Should Apply

This opportunity is ideal for students with strong academic performance, a passion for environmental science, and a willingness to travel and work in diverse ecological settings. If you want real-world experience in research, international collaboration, and sustainable water solutions, this internship could be your launchpad.

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