Looking for MSc thesis research topic? Join WaterFinns’ project in Nepal!
WaterFinns ry is looking for MSc thesis students for the project Sustainable water supply and capacity building in Devchuli municipality, Nepal (2019-2020)
Update 1.9.: Application period prolonged until 1.10.2019!
WaterFinns ry is Finnish NGO which started its activities in 2001 and works on a voluntary basis to implement development cooperation projects in developing countries and countries in transition. All projects are related to water and we operate e.g. in the fields of water resources, water environments, agriculture & irrigation, water supply & sanitation and wastewater treatment. We want to promote professional know-how in the water sector in developing countries and transition economies, help young Finnish professionals to get experience in international projects, and transfer professional knowledge and experience of Finnish senior experts to junior members. Read more information about WaterFinns here.
Project in Devchuli municipality started early 2019 and is an extension to Finland’s NAPA WASH project in Nepal in 2014-2016 with the aim for developing the area to the next level in water quality and sanitation by capacity building in ward and municipality level, training and minor construction work to ensure the long-term sustainability based on self-reliance of the communities. Devchuli has basic level water and sanitation services, but the quality of water and skills of maintaining and providing safe water supply are still not sufficient enough, which cause health issues in the area. Therefore, the need to increase understanding and awareness of the sustainability of WASH services and facilities in user committees is needed. More of the project here.
The main objective of the MSc theses is to study how water safety planning affects water quality and quantity in the study sites in Devchuli. Water supply systems in the research sites have traditional water supply system (river diversion to collection tank). Proper water quality and quantity can be maintained by the implementation of water safety planning in the field. The exact thesis topic will be confirmed due to the project needs and students’ interest.
What do we offer?
WaterFinns offers 2-3 master’s thesis positions in the project related themes during autumn 2019 - spring 2020 semesters. Research requires 2-3 months to stay in Nepal and field visits in rural areas. The thesis project includes preparations (1 month), field research in Nepal (2-3 months) and finalizing the report (2 months). WaterFinns offers a unique opportunity to learn about water quality and sanitation in Nepal and an international team to support your work. WaterFinns will cover the expenses of flights to Kathmandu and back, Visa, transportation and accommodation in the basic guest room in Devchuli and Kathmandu.
Who are we looking for?
We are looking for a student who is at the end of his/her studies in a Finnish university in the field of water technology, water, and environmental engineering, sustainable development or similar. He/she should already have some international experience, interest in global development and Nepal, and be very independent and flexible as the working conditions may be challenging.
The first students are expected to start during autumn 2019. The exact start is negotiable and applicants should state in the application which semester they prefer (autumn or spring). The students should have supervisors in their universities but WaterFinns will provide instruction to the project and working in Nepal with the support from the local team. Apart from covering the travel expenses, WaterFinns will not be able to provide salary. Students are encouraged to seek other additional funding such as university grants.
Should you have any further questions, we are happy to answer them at waterfinns@gmail.com. Please use “WaterFinns Nepal” as a topic of your email.
Send your CV and cover letter (in PDF format) stating your motivation to participate in the project by email waterfinns@gmail.com by 1st October 2019.