World Food Forum Young Scientists Group 2027–2029: FAO Opens Global Call for Young Researchers — Apply by 29 January 2027
Overview
The World Food Forum Young Scientists Group brings together emerging researchers and postgraduate students to contribute technical expertise, research insights, and evidence-based recommendations to global agrifood systems discussions. Managed by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations through its Office of Youth and Women and the World Food Forum Youth Initiative, the initiative connects scientific research with public policy and youth participation. The upcoming cohort runs from 2027 to 2029 and involves contributing to technical consultations, research activities, science-policy engagement, and biennial reporting on issues affecting young people in agrifood systems.
Who can apply
Candidates must be nationals of an FAO Member State and must be younger than 36 years old as of 31 December 2028. Applicants are also required to hold a graduate degree or be currently enrolled in a graduate degree programme. Proficiency in both spoken and written English is mandatory. The selection process prioritizes geographical, gender, and disciplinary diversity, welcoming researchers with knowledge or experience relevant to FAO's mission, such as agriculture, food systems, nutrition, climate change, environmental sustainability, economics, and rural development.
What you get
Participants gain a platform to collaborate internationally across disciplines and engage with global policy discussions regarding food and agriculture. Members build experience in scientific writing, evidence synthesis, communicating research findings to policy audiences, and connecting science with youth engagement. The programme operates on a voluntary basis, requiring a time commitment of approximately 20 hours per month.
How to apply
Interested candidates must review the official call and Terms of Reference to confirm that they meet all age, nationality, and academic criteria before preparing their application materials.
Key dates
Applications close on 29 January 2027.