The UNODA Young Women for Biosecurity Fellowship is a competitive leadership and capacity-building initiative. The United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs is in charge of this grant opportunity. It is under its Youth for Biosecurity Initiative. The programme assists young women from developing countries to improve their knowledge in biosecurity and multilateral disarmament processes. It combines virtual learning with an in-person study visit to Geneva, Switzerland.
About the UNODA Young Women for Biosecurity Fellowship
The fellowship helps promote gender inclusion in global biosecurity policy discussions. It also equips women with practical leadership and policy skills. Participants join a three-month programme that offers expert-led webinars, collaborative assignments and peer exchanges. Fellows work in groups to develop presentations and policy reflections.
An important part of the programme is the five-day visit to Geneva. During this period, fellows attend official meetings connected to the Biological Weapons Convention and engage with diplomats. The experience provides direct exposure to international policymaking and networks.
Funding Size
- Typical grant amount: USD 1,500 to USD 3,000
- Maximum award: Full financial coverage, including a daily allowance of USD 150 to USD 250 per day based on UN rates
- Project duration supported: Three months
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Who Can Apply for the UNODA Young Women for Biosecurity Fellowship
Eligible organisation types
- Individual early-career women professionals
- Women under 35 years of age at the time of application
- Applicants working in life sciences, biosecurity, public health, and policy fields
- Candidates from developing countries, as classified by the OECD Development Assistance Committee
Registration or legal documents
- Valid passport or national identification document
- Resume
- Academic degree certificate or proof of professional engagement
- Confirmation of availability for full participation
Project focus requirements
- Show interest in biosecurity or biosafety
- Motivation to contribute to international policy discussions
- Commitment to participate in all online sessions and the Geneva visit
- Proficiency in English
Geographic eligibility
- Applicants from eligible developing countries
- Must be able to obtain travel documentation for Switzerland
- Full participation in virtual and in-person components is required
- Availability during scheduled programme dates
Sector or thematic focus
- Biosecurity
- Biosafety governance
- Disarmament
- Non proliferation
- Science diplomacy
- Gender inclusion in international security
Application Process
- Complete the official online application form
- Upload resume and proof of age
- Submit a written statement outlining interest and motivation
- Await review and final selection notification
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Required Materials
- Completed application form
- Resume
- Motivation statement
- Proof of nationality and age
- Any additional documentation requested by the selection panel
Key Dates
- Application Starts: 5 March 2026
- Online training period: June to July 2026
- In-person Geneva visit: 17 August 2026 to 21 August 2026
- Notification of selected fellows: April 2026
Selection Notes
- The fellowship is highly competitive
- Priority is given to applicants who show strong biosecurity engagement and leadership potential
- Applicants who cannot commit to all programme components should not apply
Official Source of the UNODA Young Women for Biosecurity Fellowship
Application Page: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdpmRP4EuwPNQ7aG8gHNFsyVSNQbBQ9-gm9VlOzJQA2AUCSZQ/viewform