Call for Grant Applications –

Youth for Biosecurity Fellowship

Organisation Name:

United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA)

Application Deadline:

7 April 2025

About Organisation

The Youth for Biosecurity Fellowship is an initiative by the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) in Geneva, dedicated to incorporating youth perspectives into global biosecurity and disarmament discussions. Recognizing that over 90% of the world’s youth reside in developing countries, this program aims to empower young leaders from the Global South by providing them with knowledge, skills, and networks to address biosecurity challenges.

This initiative is closely aligned with the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC), an international treaty that prohibits biological weapons. The fellowship focuses on science diplomacy, disarmament, and international collaboration, ensuring that young scientists and professionals can actively participate in shaping policies and strategies for global biosecurity. Participants engage with senior experts, policymakers, and practitioners, fostering an international network of young professionals committed to preventing the misuse of biological agents. Through interactive training, field visits, and collaborative projects, the program builds the next generation of biosecurity leaders.

By strengthening youth engagement in biosecurity, UNODA aims to bridge the gap between science and policy, ensuring that future leaders play a pivotal role in disarmament, non-proliferation, and global security.

About the Grant

The 2025 Youth for Biosecurity Fellowship offers a unique opportunity for young biosecurity professionals from the Global South to enhance their expertise in biosecurity, engage in international science diplomacy, and contribute to global disarmament efforts. Organized by UNODA Geneva, this fellowship aligns with the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC) and is designed to develop leadership in biosecurity governance.

This three-month program consists of:

Online Biosecurity Diplomacy Workshops (June – July 2025): Weekly sessions on biosecurity and disarmament diplomacy.
Collaborative Project (July 2025): Fellows will work on a joint project to be presented at the BWC Working Group.
Field Visit to Geneva (August 2025): A five-day visit during the BWC Working Group on Strengthening the Convention, offering direct interaction with policymakers and experts.

The fellowship provides an international platform for young scientists and policymakers to engage in discussions on biosafety, biosecurity, and non-proliferation, while networking with global professionals and contributing to science diplomacy and security policies.

Who can Apply?

The Youth for Biosecurity Fellowship is open to young professionals passionate about biosecurity, disarmament, and international science diplomacy. Applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:

Age: Must be under 35 years old at the time of application.
Nationality: Must be a citizen of a BWC State Party that is categorized as a least developed, low-income, or lower/upper middle-income country (based on the OECD Development Assistance Committee List).
Education: Should hold an advanced degree in life sciences or a related field from a recognized university. Candidates from social sciences may be considered if they demonstrate strong interest in biosecurity, health security, disarmament, and non-proliferation.
Language: Proficiency in English (both written and spoken) is required.
Gender Inclusion: Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.

This fellowship is best suited for those who:

Are committed to biosafety, biosecurity, and disarmament efforts.
Want to understand the role of the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC) in international security.
Are interested in science diplomacy and want to contribute to global policy discussions.

How to Apply?

Interested candidates should complete and submit their applications, ensuring they include all required documents as specified in the official call. Active participation and authorization from employers/universities (if applicable) are required.