BRIDGES Research Program - Fisheries and Biodiversity in the Western Indian Ocean - is an interdisciplinary research program (2023-2033) that brings together over 200 researchers to co-construct solutions for sustainable and equitable fisheries and biodiversity conservation in the Southwest Indian Ocean (SWIO).
In the face of global changes that are exacerbating pressure on fishery resources, BRIDGES relies on close collaboration between scientists, decision-makers, and users to design and connect spatialized management tools (e.g., Marine Protected Areas, other area-based effective conservation measures - OECM) to guarantee biodiversity conservation, food security, environmental justice, and peaceful resource management.
The program operates on a regional scale and at four coastal sites (Comoros, Reunion, Mayotte, Mozambique), where it is collecting and sharing data to overcome knowledge gaps, developing digital models to test future scenarios, while employing a transdisciplinary research approach to drive change and generate impact.
BRIDGES supports the training of a new generation of ocean professionals through thematic schools, doctoral networks, and integration into regional master's programs. Recognized by COP11 of the Nairobi Convention, BRIDGES aligns with the goal of protecting 30% of the world’s oceans by 2030.
BRIDGES x SIOMPA 2026 Training presentation
The BRIDGES program and the MERMOZ and CO-EXISTENCE SIOMPA projects are organizing a Marine Connectivity Training dedicated to marine ecological connectivity and protected areas in the SWIO region.
This training will bring together international experts to provide participants with an interdisciplinary understanding of ecological connectivity in marine conservation, through an integrated approach combining ecology, field observation methods, modelling, governance, and social sciences.
The training will be open to at least 20 PhD students and postdoctoral researchers. Over a week, from September 8th to October 2nd, 2026, attendees will train at the Wits Rural Facility, the rural campus of the University of the Witwatersrand, located next to the Kruger National Park in South Africa.
Pedagogical Objectives:
This training follows an interdisciplinary approach to marine connectivity, bridging theory and practice. Attendees will:
- Build an understanding of core concepts related to marine connectivity: functional, structural, and genetic connectivity;
- Be exposed to key methods and tools, including acoustic telemetry, genetic analysis, oceanographic/Lagrangian modeling;
- Develop an integrated approach from data collection to analysis in support of marine management; and
- Explore the implications of connectivity for conservation and MPA management.
Benefits:
- Networking with international experts;
- Transdisciplinary and intercultural exchanges;
- Acquire relevant skills and tools transferable to your projects.
Tentative program
The program consists of four core teaching modules, and a week-long group project where participants will put their new knowledge into practice. The modules will:
- Present the concepts of marine ecological connectivity and their relevance in the SWIO context,
- Explore key methods for measuring, modeling, and visualizing connectivity,
- Demonstrate how insights into connectivity can be used to inform and strengthen marine conservation strategies.
An active teaching approach: Interactive presentations, practical exercises, real case studies from BRIDGES sites, and real-life situations with multidisciplinary expert speakers.
Who can apply?
The training is aimed at 20 PhD students and postdoctoral researchers, with priority given to those working with BRIDGES and SIOMPA projects, or those from or working in the south-west Indian Ocean region.
Please note that only PhD students and postdoctoral researchers will be considered for this event.
Selection criteria
Candidates will be selected on the basis of the following criteria:
- Relevant academic and/or professional activities in relation to marine connectivity;
- Links within the BRIDGES programme or a SIOMPA project;
- Relevant connection with the marine and coastal sectors of the SWIO;
- Motivation to participate in this training, and plan to apply the knowledge and skills gained in your work;
- Fluency in English: As the training is conducted entirely in English (discussions, group work, documents), a good command of this language, both oral and written, is required;
- Availability and commitment: Participants must be available to attend the entire duration of the training.
N. B. Disciplinary, gender, and geographical balance will also be taken into account to form a diverse and complementary cohort.
How to apply
Candidates must complete the following online application form before June 17th, 2026, at 9 pm (UTC+4). Due to high interest, the deadline to apply has been extended to June 17.
Results will be announced to the selected candidates by June 23rd, 2026, and confirmation is required no later than June 30th.
If you have any questions, please contact us at contact@bridges-wio.com
What is covered
The training will take place at the Wits Rural Facility (University of the Witwatersrand). The costs related to the accommodation, the meals, and the activities will be covered by BRIDGES. However, the transport to the regional airport next to the venue (Hoedspruit Airport - HDS) will be at your expense.
This immersive one-week training will foster collaboration, knowledge exchange, and hands-on learning in a unique research environment.