Scholarship Overview
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Overview
The FAO World Food Forum Young Scientists Group (YSG) 2027/2029 Global Call for Young Researchers is a competitive two-year research appointment for emerging scientists from FAO member states. Established in 2022, the YSG serves as the primary scientific body supporting the WFF Youth Initiative, including the Youth Assembly, Youth Innovation Lab, and Youth Education Programme.
Members work under cohorts aligned with the FAO Four Betters framework: better production, better nutrition, better environment, and better life. The position requires approximately 20 hours per month and offers substantial exposure to international policy processes, though specific financial compensation is not detailed in available materials.
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Eligibility Requirements
Candidates must meet all criteria below. No exceptions are noted for regional or national quotas.
- Graduated from or currently enrolled in a graduate degree programme at application time
- Aged 18–35 as of 31 December 2028
- National of a FAO Member State (all African Union members qualify, including Zimbabwe and SADC states)
- Specialization in a field relevant to FAO’s mission; alignment with WFF Youth Assembly thematic areas preferred but not mandatory
- Demonstrated proficiency in spoken and written English; prior academic work in English preferred
- Ability to dedicate approximately 20 hours monthly
- Strong intercultural communication skills and ability to work in international, multicultural environments
- Not an immediate family member of FAO employees (spouses, parents, children, siblings, or their spouses)
- Not currently employed by FAO
Structure and Responsibilities
YSG members undertake five core responsibilities over their two-year term:
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- Technical inputs: Provide scientific evidence and research perspectives to WFF activities and FAO/partner initiatives
- Policy consultation: Contribute to technical discussions with the WFF Youth Assembly and Youth Policy Board, identifying emerging evidence and research gaps
- Biennial report: Develop an evidence-based report on technical issues relevant to youth and agrifood systems transformation
- Research synthesis: Undertake literature reviews and short research outputs as needed
- Knowledge exchange: Support outreach around findings through WFF Youth Initiative channels and events
Selection Process
The three-round selection process is rigorous and merit-based:
Round 1: The WFF Youth Initiative team reviews applications and scores candidates on eligibility and experience.
Round 2: A selection committee of FAO experts from diverse technical areas assesses applications and creates a shortlist. Shortlisted candidates must submit a letter of recommendation and a two-minute video explaining their potential contribution to the YSG.
Round 3: Top candidates are invited to interviews. Final selections depend on interview performance and overall ranking.
Application Timeline and Materials
Deadline: 29 January 2027 at 23:59 CET (Rome time). African applicants should note this is 22:59 or 23:59 in West/Central Africa, and 00:59 or 01:59 on 30 January in East Africa.
Required materials typically include:
- Completed application form
- Curriculum vitae demonstrating graduate-level education and relevant specialization
- Evidence of English proficiency
- For shortlisted candidates: letter of recommendation and two-minute video
Specific document requirements should be confirmed on the official webpage.
Strategic Value for African Researchers
For Zimbabwean and SADC applicants, this appointment offers distinctive advantages:
- Policy influence: Direct input to FAO processes affecting African agrifood systems
- Network access: Connection to global scientific and policy communities
- Publication opportunity: Co-authorship of a biennial report with institutional backing
- Remote flexibility: The 20-hour monthly commitment suggests remote or hybrid participation is possible
- No employment barrier: Current graduate students may apply, unlike many fellowship programmes requiring degree completion
The 2027/2029 cohort timing allows researchers completing degrees in 2026–2027 to apply while still enrolled.
Important Considerations
Applicants should note several practical matters:
- Financial compensation is not specified in available materials; candidates should verify whether stipends, travel grants, or other support are provided
- The 20-hour monthly commitment spans 24 months—substantial but compatible with ongoing studies or part-time employment
- English proficiency is mandatory; no provision for other FAO official languages (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, Spanish) is indicated
- The age cutoff of 35 by 31 December 2028 means applicants born before 1 January 1994 are ineligible
Official scholarship page: https://www.fao.org/world-food-forum
You apply directly with the provider. We never charge for applications or ask for payment details. How we verify scholarships
