Call for Applications: Youth for Biosecurity Fellowship 2026

The United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) in Geneva has announced the Fourth Edition of the Youth for Biosecurity Fellowship, inviting applications from emerging scientists from the Global South. This prestigious programme builds on the success of its 2019 inception, which began as the Biosecurity Diplomacy Workshop, engaging over 140 young scientists through an innovative and interactive training approach.

Each year, 20 competitively selected fellows participate in a combination of online learning and in-person experiences, culminating in participation at the BWC Working Group on the Strengthening of the Convention in Geneva. The Fellowship offers an exceptional opportunity for young professionals to develop leadership skills, deepen their knowledge of biosecurity, and connect with peers and experts across the globe.

Programme Overview

The Youth for Biosecurity Fellowship is structured to balance learning with practical engagement over a three-month period, designed to accommodate professional or academic commitments. Fellows will participate in:

• Five online webinars (3 June – 1 July 2026), each lasting approximately two hours, covering key topics in biosecurity and disarmament. Sessions will take place on Wednesdays at 2 PM CET, except for the opening webinar at 3 PM CET.
• Collaborative scientific poster projects, prepared in July 2026 and presented at the BWC Working Group in August.
• Five-day in-person visit in Geneva (17–21 August 2026) during the BWC Working Group meetings. Full participation is mandatory.

All travel arrangements, including economy-class tickets and a daily subsistence allowance, will be provided according to UN regulations. Fellows are responsible for securing necessary travel documents, including visas.

Fellowship Goals

The Youth for Biosecurity Fellowship aims to empower emerging leaders in biosecurity through a threefold approach:

• Learn & Lead: Deepen expertise in biosecurity and disarmament to enhance leadership capacity.
• Think & Act: Collaborate with senior experts to develop practical proposals for strengthening global biosecurity.
• Engage & Connect: Build networks with young professionals from diverse disciplines and regions, fostering a collaborative international community.

Eligibility Criteria

The programme seeks candidates who demonstrate both academic excellence and leadership potential. Applicants must:

• Be under 35 years of age at the time of application.
• Be citizens of a BWC State Party classified as a least developed country, low-income, or lower/upper-middle-income country, according to the OECD Development Assistance Committee list.
• Hold an advanced degree in life sciences or a related discipline from a recognized university or institution.
• Demonstrate proficiency in English (CEFR level B2 or higher), with supporting certification.

The Fellowship strongly encourages female applicants and aims to maintain gender and regional balance among selected fellows.

Application Process

Prospective participants must submit applications by 5 March 2026. Interested candidates can apply through the official application form provided on the UNODA website.

Fellowship Benefits

Selected fellows gain access to:

• High-level mentorship and guidance from experts in biosecurity and disarmament.
• Hands-on experience in international policy discussions through the BWC Working Group.
• Networking opportunities with peers from diverse scientific and cultural backgrounds.
• Travel and subsistence support, ensuring participation without financial barriers.

Commitment and Expectations

The Fellowship requires active engagement across all components. Participants should be prepared to:

• Attend and actively participate in all online webinars.
• Collaborate on a poster competition project and present findings at the BWC Working Group.
• Join the full five-day in-person programme in Geneva.

The combination of online learning, collaborative projects, and international engagement ensures that fellows emerge as well-rounded biosecurity professionals ready to contribute to global initiatives.

About UNODA

The United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) promotes global peace and security by reducing the threat posed by weapons of mass destruction and conventional arms. Through initiatives like the Youth for Biosecurity Fellowship, UNODA invests in the next generation of leaders, fostering innovation, collaboration, and practical solutions to strengthen international disarmament and security frameworks.

Key Resources:

• Disarmament Education Dashboard (Online Courses)
• Youth4Disarmament Initiatives
• Art for Peace and Posters for Peace Programmes

Join the Fellowship

The Youth for Biosecurity Fellowship represents a unique opportunity to learn, lead, and contribute to global biosecurity initiatives. Young scientists from eligible countries are encouraged to apply and join an international network of future leaders committed to strengthening biosecurity and disarmament worldwide.

Deadline for applications: 5 March 2026.

VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY

For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram

Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering the fellowship. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.