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BURSARY PROGRAMME

in cooperation with

RGS

 

The Biosphere Expeditions bursary programme in cooperation with the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)'s Explore weekend makes one place on any Biosphere Expeditions project available once a year for one person. In line with the Explore ethos, the bursary is for "all who are inspired to explore the world in a challenging and meaningful way, and to give something back by doing so".

We particularly encourage students planning an overseas expedition or budding early-career field researchers with a new idea to apply.

The application deadline is 1 January 2026. The winner will be announced by the end of January 2026.

Details

The bursary winner can freely select an expedition from Biosphere Expeditions' portfolio (subject to availability), which must take place before November of the same year.

Note that the bursary does not include travel to the in-country assembly point. Winners are expected to fundraise for this (and supported to do so) as training for future fundraising efforts.

Winners are expected to participate in communicating their experience via social media and speak about it at Explore.

Requirements

1. The bursary is for all who are inspired to explore the world in a challenging and meaningful way, and to give something back by doing so. Strong preference will be given to students planning an overseas expedition or budding early-career field researchers with a new idea to apply.

2. Over 18 years of age.

3. Fluent English.

4. A genuine interest in wildlife conservation, volunteer conservation expeditions and/or a career in this field.

5. For diving expeditions: qualified diver (minimum PADI Open Water or equivalent).

6. Winners are expected to fundraise for their in-country assembly point travel as training for future fundraising efforts.

7. Winners are also expected to participate in communicating their experience via social media and speak about it at Explore.

Application process

1. Make sure you fulfil the requirements above.

2. If you do, research the volunteer expedition you are interested in via this website and the time periods it is run over.

3. Submit your application before the deadline, stating which expedition you would like to take part in and when (multiple options allowed) and why.

4. Those who make it into round 2 must complete a more detailed questionnaire for round 2. This will be sent round shortly after the application deadline.

5. Those who make it into round 3 must take part in an online interview. This will take place in January.

6. The winner is announced by the end of January.

Application form

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100 words max
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25 words max
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History & stories

Will be posted here once the bursary gets going.