São Paulo School of Advanced Science

The São Paulo School of Advanced Science on Microplastics will focus in training young scientists on the topic to be relevant actors on the matter and supporting governmental and diplomatic efforts against plastic pollution. The effort is particularly relevant within the context of the International Treaty on Plastic Pollution, which, once implemented, will be strategic for the environment, health, trade, and the bioeconomy.

The program covers the science of micro- and nanoplastics, addressing the microplastic complexities by dividing the problem into four frameworks:

• Inside the microplastic: dealing with the polymer and chemicals added to or coming from the plastic;
• On the microplastic: exploring what happens on the surface of microplastics;
• Around the microplastic: discussing the interaction dynamics with the several media where the microplastics are;
• Regulatory framework: the public debate and the viable actions stemming from evidence-based science toward regulatory policy.

The primary target audience includes master’s, doctoral, postdoctoral students, and early-career scientists with training in a wide range of disciplines related to microplastics. The School will offer 100 vacancies (50% for Brazilians and 50% for foreigners), with affirmative actions (at least half will be for women and 25% for ethnical minorities).