CfA: PhD Fellowship in the international research project PRODERE – The Promises and Delusions of Private Ecosystem Restoration in India16.1.2026 {en}

The French Institute of Pondicherry (IFP) is inviting applications for one fully funded PhD Fellowship under the international research project PRODERE – The Promises and Delusions of Private Ecosystem Restoration in India.
🔎 PhD Topic
Private Ecosystem Restoration, Governance, and Local Livelihoods in South India
This PhD offers the opportunity to conduct in-depth field-based social science research on private ecosystem restoration initiatives and their impacts on governance, environmental justice, and local livelihoods across Tamil Nadu (Pandalgudi, Sirumalai, Masinagudi).
🎓 Fellowship Highlights
4-year fully funded PhD
Stipend up to INR 42,000 + HRA/month
Based at IFP, India, in collaboration with PALOC (France)
Strong interdisciplinary and international research environment
👤Ideal Candidate
Master’s in Social Sciences (Anthropology, Sociology, Political Ecology, Human Geography, Development Studies, etc.)
Strong interest in environmental governance and qualitative fieldwork
Fluency in English and Tamil required
📅 Apply by: 30 January 2026
📧 Send CV, cover letter, and writing sample (English & Tamil) to thamaraiselvan[at]ifpindia.org and
sarah.benabou[at]ird.fr