The World Food Forum (WFF), an initiative established by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), is inviting applications from young researchers and scientists to join its Young Scientists Group (YSG) for the 2027–2029 cohort. The opportunity is designed for emerging researchers who want to contribute scientific knowledge, research evidence and innovative perspectives towards transforming global agrifood systems and advancing sustainable development.

Launched in 2022, the WFF Young Scientists Group supports the work of the WFF Youth Initiative by providing scientific and technical expertise on issues affecting young people and agrifood systems. Members contribute to research, evidence-based discussions, consultations and knowledge-sharing activities that inform youth engagement and relevant FAO initiatives.

Selected members will collaborate with fellow young scientists, FAO technical experts and international research networks to identify emerging challenges, examine scientific evidence and contribute to solutions that support more sustainable, resilient and equitable food systems. The group also works with the WFF Youth Assembly and the WFF Youth Policy Board to bring research findings and scientific perspectives into youth-focused policy discussions.

During the two-year term, members will contribute to the development of a biennial scientific report addressing a technical issue relevant to youth and agrifood systems transformation. Activities will include research and literature reviews, evidence synthesis, technical consultations, scientific writing, peer review and dissemination of research findings. Members may also contribute to relevant WFF events, interviews, podcasts and other knowledge-sharing activities, subject to the appropriate guidance and authorization.

The first year will primarily focus on consultations, identifying research priorities, gathering evidence and contributing technical inputs to relevant WFF activities. The second year will focus on researching, drafting, reviewing, finalizing and disseminating the group’s biennial report.

The opportunity offers early-career researchers a platform to strengthen their experience in interdisciplinary research, scientific communication, evidence-based policymaking and international collaboration. Participants will also have the opportunity to engage with global experts and contribute research perspectives to discussions on the future of food and agriculture.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must have graduated from or be enrolled in a graduate degree programme at the time of application. They must be between 18 and 35 years old as of 31 December 2028 and be nationals of a member state of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.

Candidates should have a specialization in a field relevant to FAO’s mission and work, with expertise aligned with the WFF Youth Assembly’s thematic areas considered an advantage. Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in spoken and written English, although previous academic work conducted in English is preferred rather than mandatory.

Successful candidates must be able to commit approximately 20 hours per month to the group’s activities and demonstrate the ability to work effectively in an international, multicultural environment, with strong intercultural communication skills.

Applicants must not be employed by FAO or be immediate family members of FAO employees. Immediate family members include spouses, parents, children, siblings and their respective spouses.

The selection process seeks to promote gender parity, regional balance and diversity across scientific disciplines and technical expertise.

Selection Process

The selection process will take place in three rounds. During the first round, the WFF Youth Initiative team will review applications and assess candidates based on eligibility and experience. In the second round, a committee of FAO experts will evaluate applications and shortlist candidates. Applicants advancing to this stage will be asked to provide a letter of recommendation and a two-minute video explaining how they would contribute to the Young Scientists Group.

In the final round, top candidates will be invited for interviews. Final selections will be based on interview performance and overall ranking, taking into consideration geographical and gender diversity, scientific expertise and the group’s technical priorities.

How to Apply

Interested and eligible candidates should prepare their applications through the official World Food Forum application process. Applicants should review the eligibility requirements carefully and be ready to demonstrate their academic background, relevant research experience, technical expertise and potential contributions to youth-led agrifood systems transformation.

For further information and application details, visit the official World Food Forum website: https://www.world-food-forum.org/

Opportunity: World Food Forum Young Scientists Group (YSG) 2027–2029 Cohort

Host organization: Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), through the World Food Forum Youth Initiative

Opportunity type: Research, scientific engagement and international collaboration

Duration: Two years

Time commitment: Approximately 20 hours per month

Eligible applicants: Graduate students and graduates aged 18–35 who are nationals of FAO Member States and meet the other eligibility requirements.

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