Course 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