2026 IOI Winter School

The Leibniz Centre for Tropical Marine Research (ZMT) is partnering with the International Ocean Institute (IOI) again to offer the next edition of the renowned two‑week winter school on “Ocean Governance for Sustainable Marine Social‑Ecological Systems”.

This interdisciplinary programme, taking place online from 2nd to 13th November 2026, will bring together around 30 participants from across the globe to explore practical pathways for sustainably managing and protecting our oceans. The programme offers a valuable opportunity to engage directly with leading experts and to exchange ideas with fellow researchers and practitioners shaping the future of marine governance.

Programme Highlights

  • Academic foundation – A purposeful curriculum introducing perspectives from across scientific disciplines, equipping participants to engage meaningfully in marine governance and the sustainable blue economy.
  • Expert-led sessions – Leading specialists will guide discussions and activities.
  • Featured speakers include Raimund Bleischwitz (Blue Carbon – an Economic Perspective), Lina Becker (Principles of Fisheries Management), Pradeep Singh (Regulating and Governing Seabead Mining), and Rüdiger Wolfrum (Ocean Governance and Law of the Sea)
  • Networking opportunities – Connect with early‑career researchers from around the world and build relationships with future leaders in ocean governance.

Applicant Profile

The programme is designed for early‑career researchers (Doctoral and Postdoctoral Researchers) from fields such as marine biology, chemistry, geology, geography, sociology, political science, and related disciplines. It is also open to professionals from governmental and non‑governmental organisations with relevant scientific backgrounds. Applications from scholars based in tropical regions are especially encouraged.

Key Details

  • Participants: 20 – 30
  • Fees: Free of charge for eligible candidates (supported by IOI and ZMT)
  • Academic Leads: Achim Schlüter (Institutional Economics) and Tim Jennerjahn (Biogeochemistry)
  • Organisation: ZMT Academy
  • Schedule: Monday – Friday,12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. CET , plus participation in a regional case‑study workgroup on the Blue Economy.

Application

Deadline: 31st August 2026