Host institutions and mentors must:

- have the capacity to host and supervise an ocean professional for up to 3 months, between September and December 2026;

- have a collaborative relationship working with programmes linked under any IOC of UNESCO global programmes or IOC Regional Sub-Commission Bodies;

- be willing to co-design and implement a training plan with specific deliverables contributing to implementation of work plans adopted by IOC Regional Sub-Commissions.

Interested host institutions are requested to prepare and submit the following:

- an expression of interest detailing the existing relationship of the institution to IOC programmes and how the internship activities can contribute to the implementation of work plans adopted by IOC Regional Sub-Commissions (text file of maximum 500 words);

- a summary of existing support mechanisms for interns that are currently available in the host institution;

- a profile of the mentor/staff that will be responsible in coordinating with the IOC Ocean Traineeship organiser.

The host institute most consider the following organisational tasks:

- the supervisor will provide an official invitation letter to facilitate the visa process

- will assist in finding accomodation

- will support and coordinate the administrative arrangements within the host institution to enable access to the facilities 

- will supervise the trainee according to the workplan

- approve that extra travel costs related to the workplan will be covered by the host institute

- will be available for possible online intake interviews with the secretariat and the trainee

While applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, the deadline to complete all requirements for the application is 30 April 2026 (11.45 PM CEST). Do not leave for the last minute since the system will close automatically. In case you have any questions please contact us (s.de-baenst@unesco.org).Upon demand we can provide a online info session.

Link to the application form

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