Courses objectives and content
The thesis project is a research project that must deal with environmental and, preferentially, tropical issues in natural ecosystems or within cropping systems including tree as a major component.. It is usually part of an internship in
- a research institution either national (e.g., Cirad, IRD, Inrae, CNRS, higher education institutions) or international (e.g., CGIAR research centre, Smithsonian Institute, CATIE…)
- or in a non-academic entity such as an NGO, an international organization, a consultancy firm or a foundation.
Preparation, including discussions with AgroParisTech partners from research and education (Montpellier Supagro, IAMM) institutions of the Agropolis campus of Montpellier. Fieldwork should last at least 3 months and be achieved preferably in the tropical area. The thesis subject and its logistic implementation are validated by teaching staff and supervisor after a project document and oral pre-defence have been completed.
Teaching and learning methods
The thesis work is under the joint supervision of the hosting institution and of AgroParisTech.
Course evaluation
The thesis is defended at a public seminar. Thesis content, defence quality and behaviour during field training are evaluated.
Target skills
Ability to
-
establish a research programme involving local populations in a multicultural context
-
discuss and analyse the key issues concerning management of natural resources
-
make a critical analysis, and to propose a suitable course of action
-
contribute to the global debate on management of natural resources
