Funded Opportunities for Training & Sea Survey Experience

Candidates selected for the at-sea experiences will be able to reinforce their knowledge and skills in operating hydrographic survey equipment, as well as in collecting and processing ocean data, all while gaining valuable experience at sea. Those selected for the training will develop a comprehensive understanding of key hydrographic concepts essential for nautical charting, such as tides, currents, bathymetry, and geographical referencing systems.  

More information on the opportunities available can be found below: 

Hydrographic and Oceanographic Surveys with Shom (France) 

The IHO - EWH project, together with Shom, are offering opportunities for the summer of 2026 to participate in hydrographic and oceanographic survey activities aboard the research vessel POURQUOI PAS ?. The campaign will consist of two survey legs, each with two available spots (four opportunities in total). 

• Application Deadline: 15 March 2026 
• Candidates must be able to communicate effectively in English. Ability to communicate in French would be a plus but is not essential. 
• More information and how to apply: https://iho.int/uploads/user/circular_letters/eng_2026/CL07_2026_EN_v2.pdf  
• Only available to female candidates. 

Hydro3 Certification with Shom (France) in partnership with ENSTA Bretagne and the French speaking Hydrographic Association (AFHy). 

The IHO - EWH project, together with Shom, ENSTA Bretagne and AFHy are offering an opportunity to obtain the Hydro3 certification. The programme blends theory with practical exercises, both at sea and on computers using tools like the MB-System, allowing for immediate application of the acquired skills in real-life environments.   

Applications are for the training scheduled for 1 - 19 June 2026. Ideally candidates will be early to mid-level hydrographic surveyors with a strong background and continued interest in hydrography.  

• Application Deadline: 15 March 2026 
• Candidates must be able to read, write and speak in French. 
• More information and how to apply: https://iho.int/uploads/user/circular_letters/eng_2026/CL06_2026_EN_v1.pdf  
• Only available to female candidates. 

Graduate Certificate in Ocean Mapping at the University of New Hampshire (UNH)  

The Ocean Mapping Graduate Certificate at UNH offers specialised training in seabed mapping and oceanographic analysis. Selected candidates will be able to work with advanced technology and leading experts in marine science to develop skills in data analysis, marine hardware, software development, remote sensing, and more, through a combination of lectures, laboratory practices, and on-board experiences. 

The 23rd course of the IHO-IOC-Nippon Foundation / GEBCO Training Program will begin in late August 2026, pending funding to be confirmed in April by the Nippon Foundation.  

• Application Deadline: 19 April 2026 
• Candidates must be able to communicate effectively in English. 
• More information and how to apply: https://iho.int/uploads/user/circular_letters/eng_2026/CL13_2026_EN_v1.pdf

Hydrographic survey with the Canadian Hydrographic Service (CHS) as part of the UN Ocean Decade Alliance 

The CHS is offering a fully-funded opportunity to four students or early career professionals to participate in a three-week, trans-Atlantic hydrographic survey, aboard the Canadian Coast Guard ship Louis S St. Laurent.   

The survey will begin mid-July 2026, departing from St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador and would conclude in early August 2026, tentatively in Tromsø, Norway. Data collected during this mission will be incorporated into the General Bathymetric Chart of the Oceans (GEBCO) programme, in addition to updating specific CHS nautical products.  

• Application Deadline: 20 March 2026 
• Candidates must be able to communicate effectively in English. 
• More information and how to apply: https://iho.int/uploads/user/circular_letters/eng_2026/CL11_2026_EN_v2.pdf  

The IHO Secretariat encourages all potential candidates to send their applications and to consult the IHO website and social media channels for updates on future opportunities.  

The IHO expresses its gratitude towards Canada, France, and the IHO-IOC-Nippon Foundation / GEBCO Training Program for offering these opportunities.