START builds research capacity among people and institutions in developing countries. Our focus is on developing cross-disciplinary research skills in order to better understand the underlying causes of global and regional environmental change, gauge the impacts, and find policy-oriented solutions that reduce vulnerability and help societies adapt.

We place particular emphasis on the creation of ‘science-policy amphibians’ – people who understand the science behind issues and can translate it into policy. Such skills are of growing importance in the context of national development needs and international climate negotiations.

Through its capacity building activities, START:

• provides fellowships and research grants to early- and mid-career scientists,
• develops workshops, advanced institutes and course modules for scientists, resource managers, and development professionals,
• brings scientists and policymakers together to enhance understanding of climate change risks among decision makers,
• paves the way for collaborative regional research in Africa, Asia, and the Pacific,
• implements and promotes regional data and information platforms, and
• mobilizes resources to support capacity building.

START currently works in Africa, Asia and the Pacific. Our capacity building activities are linked to the research goals of the Earth Science System Partnership