ANZIC Masterclass 2026

Applications are open now for the 2026 ANZIC Marine Geoscience Masterclass, a unique field and lab opportunity to investigate climate and environmental influences on carbon cycling in the stunning fjords of Fiordland, New Zealand. Hosted by the University of Otago, this 12-day immersive program from December 1–12, 2026, combines hands-on fieldwork in Doubtful Sound with cutting-edge laboratory analysis at the Otago Repository for Core Analysis (ORCA).

ANZIC welcomes applications from undergraduate and postgraduate students actively enrolled in Earth sciences, geology, geophysics, marine science, or related fields at a recognised academic institution. Applications from Geoscience Australia (GA), and Earth Science New Zealand are also welcome.

Active student status or employment is mandatory for the duration of the ANZIC Masterclass due to insurance requirements for participation in fieldwork and laboratory activities. No prior experience with marine geology or IODP/ICDP techniques is required, just a passion for learning and collaboration! 

ANZIC will prioritises 2nd and 3rd year undergraduates for its Masterclass trainings to build a robust talent pipeline for marine geoscience research, capitalising on their early-career stage to ignite lifelong dedication to geoscience and pave the way for advanced research careers.

While undergraduates are the primary focus, a select number of postgraduates and graduates will also be considered to enrich the cohort with diverse perspectives and advanced insights, enhancing collaborative learning. This mix works because undergraduates bring fresh enthusiasm and openness to exploration, while postgraduates contribute deeper theoretical knowledge and mentorship, creating a dynamic environment that strengthens leadership and networking.

Financial support will be automatically granted to all students from Australia and New Zealand who are accepted into the ANZIC Masterclass. ANZIC will pay for your travel, accommodation, participation fee and meals. 

Applications from our international* partners are encouraged. If you are accepted into the course, your applications will be automatically forwarded to your appropriate scientific drilling program office to request financial support for your travel, accommodation, participation fee and meals.

Applications will be accepted until 9 June, 11:59 pm AEST, after which they will be evaluated by the ANZIC Science Committee. Students will be notified of the outcome of their application in August.

To apply, please complete this application form and attach:

• a letter of motivation (1 page maximum), highlighting:
  • how your interests and expertise connect to marine geoscience
  • examples of times when you have enjoyed working in a team environment 
  • how you plan to use the skills learned in this course to help your current or future research, or career choice. Please comment on what aspects of the course interest you the most.
• for undergraduates: an academic transcript of your undergraduate coursework results.
• the email addresses of at least one academic referees from your university e.g. a lecturer, or supervisor. If you are from GA, or ESNZ, please list your supervisor.