We are pleased to announce the IOC of UNESCO OceanTraineeship programme for 2026.

The IOC of UNESCO Ocean Traineeship aim to provide opportunities for hands-on learning and upskilling through a temporary assignment at host institutions with expertise on subject areas relevant to the IOC mandate. 

 

 

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 EXTENDED till 17 May 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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As an IOC Ocean Trainee you will be able to learn specific technical skills that you require in your home institution and for which the host institution and mentor have expertise. You will, after hands-on training, be asked to carry out work that is regularly done by the mentor. 

 

Training applicants must:

- be at the early stages of career development;

- be citizens from IOC Member States;

- be employed by government institutions; 

- work on activities contributing to implementation of work plans adopted by IOC Regional Sub-Commissions.

 

For 2026 cohort, there are XXX host institutions [April 2026: host are not selected yet] that offer placements to trainees providing their expertise in priority areas. Applicants will be asked to indicate which of the host institutions best fit their traineeship objectives and how undertaking the trainings at the said host institution relates to their current role and will benefit their employing institutions (you can only chooce 1 host institute).

 

 

Training applicants should complete an online application form. It is also a requirement to attach a recommendation letter from your supervisor at your employing institution. Link not available yet - call will open in May 2026

 

DEADLINE for applications is to be defined. The traineeship should take place between September and December 2026 for a time of 3 months.

 

As a trainee you also need to submit a final report that provides insight and perceptions about the traineeship programme and activities. An evaluation moment will need to be set up with the mentor and the results need to be shared with the secretariat. You need to complete a feedback survey and share some pictures of the traineeship. At the very end of the program, you will be required to give an online presentation to all mentors and trainees, on the gained knowledge and the challenges and the implementation at your host institute.

 

Do not leave for the last minute since the system will close automatically. In case you have any questions please contact us in time (s.de-baenst@unesco.org)

 

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

 

Applications will be evaluated by the IOC of UNESCO and host institutions based on the following:

1. Applicant’s profile;

2. Quality of the application;

3. Relevance of the application to the priorities included in the IOC Regional Sub-Commission  workplans;

4. Justification how the training will contribute to building the capacity of the individual and his/her employer organization with lasting impact to the regional capacity;

5. Geographic and gender balance amongst the recipients of the Ocean Traineeship.

 

If shortlisted, an interview will be arranged to co-design the work plan in close collaboration with the host supervisor/mentor.

 

Please carefully read the following terms of the traineeship. Submitting an application to the OceanTraineeship indicates your agreement to these terms.

 

The training does not constitute a salary. The IOC will provide the following to successful trainees: 

1. Round trip international air ticket to and from the airport of the trainees country of residence to the nearest airport to the host institution.

2. A monthly stipend will be provided to cover your expenses during the training and will be based on the amount recommended by the host institution. Details on expected expenses can be discussed with the host institution.

3. Travel insurance

4. The training does not cover other expenses incurred domestically such as local transport, visa costs, medical tests, etc.