Applications for the 2024 Youth for Biosecurity Fellowship are now open.

Organized by the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs in Geneva in collaboration with key international partners focusing on empowering youth in science diplomacy and global biosecurity, the fellowship offers a unique learning and networking opportunity within the multilateral discussions of the Biological Weapons Convention in Geneva. Launched in 2019 as the Biosecurity Diplomacy Workshop, the Youth for Biosecurity Initiative hosted its inaugural fellowship in 2023.

For the second iteration, the fellowship will provide the chance for 20 young scientists from the Global South to participate in an online interactive training program preceding a field visit during the meeting of the BWC Working Group on the Strengthening of the Convention in Geneva. The Fellowship aims to enable young biosecurity leaders from the Global South to deepen their expertise in biosecurity and disarmament, enhance their leadership skills, engage in discussions with senior experts, advocate for their perspectives in the margins of multilateral disarmament meetings, connect with young experts worldwide, join an international youth network, and participate in dialogues with BWC practitioners, including diplomats and experts.

To qualify for the Youth for Biosecurity Fellowship, you should be passionate about and possess experience in biosafety, biosecurity, disarmament, and non-proliferation or youth involvement, have a desire to comprehend your crucial role in combatting the misuse of biological agents, be eager to learn more about the Biological Weapons Convention and its pivotal role in disarmament and health security, believe in the potential of young people to effect positive change, aspire to actively contribute to building a more peaceful and secure world, and seek an insider's view into the workings of science diplomacy in multilateral disarmament meetings.

The Fellowship spans over a 3-month period and requires a minimal time commitment to accommodate fellows' work or academic schedules. Activities include an Online Biosecurity Diplomacy Workshop from June 5 to July 5, 2024, with approximately one session (two to three hours) per week, a collaborative project to be prepared in July 2024 and presented at the BWC Working Group on the Strengthening of the Convention in August 2024, an online briefing on the Working Group on the Strengthening of the Convention in July/August 2024, and a five-day field visit in Geneva from August 19 to 23, 2024, during the meetings of the BWC Working Group on the Strengthening of the Convention.

Scroll down for more details and click on the official link attached to apply