CREATE-TESS Scholarship
Purpose of the award
The CREATE-TESS scholarship supports Bachelors, Masters, PhD, and Post-doctoral trainees whose research and training align with the themes of the TESS program and are committed to transdisciplinary research and meaningfully incorporating sustainability into their field. The award is intended to recruit and retain trainees who will combine disciplinary excellence with values-based science, ethical design, science communication, community-based knowledge co-production, and policy fluency.
Respective awards
| Level | CREATE-TESS contribution up to | Supervisor/other contribution | Minimum suggested total support | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelors | CAD $1500/year | CAD $6000 from other sources. | Funding of CAD $7500/year | Award administered during selected students term placement |
| Masters | CAD $9000/year | CAD $18000/year or approved equivalent | Funding of CAD $27000/year | Up to 2 years, subject to annual renewal |
| PhD | CAD $13000/year | CAD $27000/year or approved equivalent | Funding of CAD $40000/year | Up to 3 years, subject to annual renewal |
| Post-Doctoral | CAD $20000/Year | CAD $50,000/year or approved equivalent | Funding of CAD $70,000/year | Up to two years |
Who Should Apply?
We encourage all applicants who are accepted into, or enrolled full-time in, an eligible program at the University of Calgary or a partner institution approved by CREATE-TESS to submit an application.
Program Eligibility
- Applicant must have a primary supervisor who is a CREATE-TESS co-applicant, collaborator, affiliated faculty member, or is otherwise approved by the Program Committee.
- The research project must align with the CREATE-TESS mandate, including sustainability, responsible innovation, ethical design, community-based science, science communication, policy engagement, or related transdisciplinary areas.
- Applicant must be able to commit to the CREATE-TESS program requirements, including participation in the four foundation modules, mentorship meetings, mobility experience, reporting, and knowledge mobilization activities.
- Application should normally be submitted before or within 12 and 18 months of the start of the graduate program for the MSc and PhD students respectively, unless an exception is approved by the Program Committee.
- *Note* Priority may be given to applicants whose projects involve multi-sector collaboration, cross-disciplinary supervision, partner engagement, community relevance, or underrepresented areas of sustainability research.
Ready to Apply?
How to Prepare
A strong application demonstrates academic readiness, alignment with sustainability goals, and an interest in collaborative, transdisciplinary research.
Review Program Fit
Consider how your background, research interests, and graduate goals connect with the program’s sustainability mission.
Prepare Key Materials
Gather transcripts, statements of interest, and supporting information that clearly communicate your motivation and potential contribution.