Institute of Tropical Forest Conservation

Researchers: We are particularly interested in proposals and activities which have a strong applied component and can contribute to local and regional capacity and/or conservation outcomes. Note that all research requires clearance from the Ugandan authorities which can take up to 3 months. Those seeking collaboration should contact us in good time.

Our facilities are also available, at a charge, to researchers who have their own funds and research plans and are simply looking for a base.

Research students: Students looking to work at ITFC to undertake research project are welcome to contact us. Note that all research requires clearance from the Ugandan authorities which can take up to 3 months.

ITFC is developing a list of research ideas that we can share with interested graduate students as a basis for projects. See the publications for some idea as to what has already been done. Contact us for discussions.

General themes of interest:

Prioritising research needs (demands and unknowns)
Threats to forests and forest biodiversity
Forest and wildlife ecology
The distribution and status of species of conservation concern
Attitudes to conservation
The costs, benefits and economics of conservation and sustainable use
Forest environmental services
Climate change, impacts, adaptation and mitigation
Monitoring carbon
Local people’s needs
Sustainable resource use
Education and outreach
Monitoring and the effectiveness of conservation and resource management actions

Funds for students: We are trying to raise funds to support graduate students from Uganda (and Africa more generally) to work with us during the field component of Masters and Doctoral studies. Any student seeking such support should be willing to ensure their research addresses a real demand, threat or problem, and has the potential to improve conservation outcomes in the region. Please talk to us early in the proposal design.

Proposals to donors: We welcome to be included in proposals to work with us. Please consult with us to ensure ITFC's objectives, costs and requirements are reflected in any such proposals.

Volunteers: ITFC does host volunteers on an ad-hoc basis. Prospective volunteers should be willing to work for longer than one month on activities that may sometimes be dull. Volunteers should expect to pay their own costs, including food, board, transport and insurance. Those interested in working as volunteers should discuss this with us at least 2-3 months in advance.

UWA monthly research fees are as follows:

Ugandan students are exempt from payment
Ugandan senior researchers	30,000 UGX
Foreign students	30 U$
Foreign senior researchers	100 U$