The 2018 Borlaug Global Cocoa Initiative Fellowships will offer training opportunities in specific topics focused on cocoa breeding, integrated pest management and post-harvest management.

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Agriculture said it is accepting applications for the 2018 Borlaug Global Cocoa Initiative Fellowships. Individuals accepted into the program will work with a mentor at the U.S.D.A.’s Agricultural Research Service or a U.S. university for up to 12 weeks on research related to improving cocoa production and quality.

The U.S.D.A. said the program will offer training opportunities in specific topics focused on cocoa breeding, integrated pest management and post-harvest management.

Objectives of the fellowship include:

• provide practical experience and exposure to new perspectives and/or technologies

• foster increased collaboration and networking to improve agricultural productivity and trade

• facilitate the transfer of new scientific and agricultural technologies to strengthen agricultural practices

• address obstacles to the adoption of technology such as ineffectual policies and regulations.