PhD Marine Conservation Student Vincenzo de Cancellis from Italy Shares His Journey of Studying at University of Malta, Malta

I’m Vincenzo de Cancellis, an Italian “marine enthusiast” who moved to Malta for his PhD at the Islands and Small States Institute, University of Malta. My current research focuses on how Coastal Protected Areas and Marine Protected Areas can Foster Climate Change Adaptation and Sustainable Livelihoods in Small Islands.

Marie Skłodowska-curie PHD Doctoral Network Details

I am currently part of the Horizon Europe Marie Skłodowska-Curie PhD Doctoral Network MEDiverSEAty (In quest of the human dimensions of MEDiterranean Marine Biodiversity), which investigates the relationships between marine biodiversity and society across six Mediterranean countries. I am part of the ten PhD student cohort, which is conducting interdisciplinary research exploring marine science, social sciences, and environmental studies through different lenses of investigation.

The PhD is fully funded and provides a monthly stipend as a Research Support Officer. Throughout the three years, a range of training activities , including online courses and in-person workshops, are offered and fully funded. As part of the program, I am required to complete a six-month research secondment within a partner institution of the network, aimed at fostering my academic and professional growth. Currently, I am undertaking a three-month secondment at the Il-Majjistral Nature and History Park in Malta, followed by another three-month period in Mallorca, Spain. In addition, continuous mentoring is provided by all sixteen academic and non-academic supervisors. Opportunities to present research at international conferences are also actively supported and fully funded.

https://mediverseaty.eu/

https://marie-sklodowska-curie-actions.ec.europa.eu/actions/doctoral-networks

Educational Background

During my studies, both in bachelor's and master's, I constantly focused on marine conservation, at the same time trying to keep a holistic approach that would frame marine conservation, including social and policy factors.  I have a Master of Science in “Global Change Ecology and Sustainable Development Goals” at the Alma-Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Italy, and A Bachelor in Natural and Environmental Sciences at the University of Parma, Italy. During my Bachelor's, I was able to study for one year at the University of the Azores, Portugal, thanks to an Erasmus+ Study scholarship, which further confirmed my passion for the ocean. Subsequently, my Master thesis focused on the potential of sustainable fishery techniques as a tool to concurrently reduce elasmobranch bycatch mortality and increment rural development of artisanal fishing communities in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. I graduated from my master’s study with a 110/110 cum laude and was in the top 2% graduate.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the University of Malta?

To prepare for applying to institutions, I researched online, joined early-career professional networks (such as ECOP), and subscribed to newsletters to stay updated on scholarships and opportunities. I improved my CV and presentation skills, attended webinars and online workshops and asked guidance from experts in the field mainly via LinkedIn and online events. As part of this preparation, I also took the IELTS test to meet application requirements.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

When I applied, I realized this PhD scholarship aligned perfectly with my interests and future goals. My advice to anyone considering a similar opportunity is not to be intimidated by the prestige of any scholarship. On the other hand, take the time to focus on your specific area of interest, make your application personal and authentic, and don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm and passion through both your written application and subsequent interview. I personally think that being genuine and motivated makes a lot of difference.