The International Arid Lands Consortium Wayne Owens Peace Fellowship Program was created to benefit U.S. and Middle East environment and society, in keeping with the IALC's goal of supporting and researching methods of ecologically sound desert management. The program promotes opportunities for outstanding undergraduate and graduate students to

• conduct arid lands research and
• contribute to the Middle East Peace Process.

Selected students from IALC member institutions spend one month or more working in the field with eminent scientists on projects sponsored by the Consortium. This exchange between American universities and researchers in the Middle East fosters an environment in which young people can grow intellectually and contribute to understanding among Israeli, Arab, and U.S. participants. Students are expected to conduct their research in a country other than their home country. Graduate students will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

IALC Member Institutions include:

• The University of Arizona
• Desert Research Institute - Nevada
• Higher Council for Science & Technology - Jordan
• The University of Illinois
• Jewish National Fund
• Ministry of Agriculture & Land Reclamation-Egypt
• New Mexico State University
• South Dakota State University
• Texas A&M University-Kingsville

Students chosen to participate in the IALC Peace Fellowship Program have demonstrated interest in sustainable development of arid lands. The exchange is an opportunity for them to contribute to the success of projects that include:

• desertification,
• water management, and
• reforestation.

During their fellowships, the students focus on practical knowledge and application of research. Participation brings with it the possibility of published work in a scholarly journal and provides a challenging academic environment. More broadly, the students' experiences give them skills that are personally enriching and will benefit their communities.

The IALC Wayne Owens Peace Fellowship Program is made possible in part through a grant from the Archer Daniels Midland Foundation and the USDA Forest Service

Application Details

• All full-time undergraduate and graduate students from IALC member institutions are eligible to apply to the program and related grants including work-study.
• Total awards are up to $5,000
  • up to $3,500 for international travel, lodging, and meals
  • up to $1,500 for principal investigator research support.
• Applications are accepted throughout the year at the IALC headquarters in Tucson, Arizona.