The Sabbatical Residencies Program at EBM is designed for researchers, highly qualified professionals, and PhD holders on sabbatical leave from national and international institutions (universities, research centres) with expertise in EBM’s research areas. The program is developed by EBM in partnership with the Municipality of Mértola and aims to attract highly qualified individuals who can contribute their knowledge and expertise to address the major challenges of the region, particularly climate change adaptation, desertification combat, ecosystem regeneration and biodiversity conservation.

Under the program, accepted candidates are provided with free accommodation in Mértola town, travel support (from their home country and internal travel) and a coworking space for work.

Participants are expected to collaborate with their expertise on local research projects, training initiatives, or other proposals relevant to the region, as outlined in their application.

The program has a minimum duration of one month and a maximum of one year, with no option for renewal.