KNUST Opens Applications for SAFEL Project MPhil and PhD Scholarships

The Department of Fisheries and Watershed Management at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has opened applications for MPhil and PhD scholarship positions under the Sustainable Aquatic Foods, Environment and Livelihoods (SAFEL) Project for the 2026/2027 academic year.

The programme is being implemented in partnership with the Technical University of Denmark (DTU Aqua) under the SAFEL Project and seeks to strengthen research capacity in aquatic food systems, aquaculture, watershed management and environmental sustainability while training the next generation of Ghanaian researchers.

Available scholarship positions

The project is offering six postgraduate scholarship positions:

• Two PhD scholarships in Watershed Management
• Two PhD scholarships in Aquaculture and Environment
• Two MPhil scholarships in Watershed Management

Successful applicants will begin their studies on 1 October 2026.

Eligibility

Applications are open to Ghanaian citizens currently residing in Ghana.

Applicants must:

• Be fluent in English.
• Show strong evidence of research dissemination, such as publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• Demonstrate competence in the use of at least one statistical software package (an added advantage).

Applications from female candidates are highly encouraged.

PhD applicants must:

• Hold a Master’s degree related to the proposed research area.
• Have at least two years’ field or laboratory experience.
• Be able to commit fully to four years of doctoral studies and project activities.

MPhil applicants must:

• Hold a BSc degree in Aquatic Sciences, Fisheries, Environmental Sciences or a related field.
• Have at least one year of field or laboratory experience.
• Commit to two years of full-time studies and project activities.

How to Apply

Applicants are required to submit the following documents:

• A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Two reference letters (including one from an academic supervisor)
• Official academic certificates and transcripts
• A motivation letter (maximum two pages) explaining why they wish to pursue the programme and why they are suitable candidates
• A two-page research concept note outlining the research justification, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes

Only shortlisted applicants will be invited for interviews. Scholarship awards are conditional upon successful admission into the relevant postgraduate programme at KNUST.

Interested applicants are encouraged to submit their complete application packages before the deadline, as incomplete applications may not be considered.

📅 Deadline: 3 July 2026

Visit HERE to appy now.

Further Enquiries

For additional information about the scholarship, prospective applicants may contact:

Prof. Kwasi Obirikorang – kaobirikorang.canr@knust.edu.gh

Prof. Regina Esi Edziyie – reedzyie.frnr@knust.edu.gh

Prof. Daniel Adjei-Boateng – daboateng.frnr@knust.edu.gh