The FAO Fellows Programme is an international opportunity by the Food and Agriculture Organization under the UN. The programme supports researchers and experienced professionals who want to contribute their experiences within a global development organization. More hands are needed in the agricultural sector and FAO uses this opportunity to bring in brilliant brains. The fellowship allows participants to work with experts from the FAO. These specialists have huge experiences in food security, agriculture and global nutrition initiatives. Fellows are exposed to international development work while improving their technical skills.
About the FAO Fellows Programme
The FAO Fellows Programme attracts qualified individuals with advanced academic backgrounds to support FAO in dealing with hunger worldwide. Fellows contribute their knowledge while still learning through assignments and training sessions within FAO offices.
Assignments will be done at FAO headquarters or at country offices depending what is needed. Fellows work with technical teams on research, policy analysis and programme implementation. All projects handled must align with FAO’s Framework and the United Nations Development Goals.
This is not an employment contract but a collaboration opportunity where fellows gain international exposure and professional experience. Selection is competitive and based on merit, and academic qualifications.
Funding Size
- Typical grant amount: No financial remuneration
- Maximum award: Not Publicly Specified
- Project duration supported: 11 months
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Who Can Apply for the FAO Fellows Programme
Eligible organisation types
- PhD students in universities
- Researchers and academic professionals
- Master’s degree graduates with advanced specialization
- Technical experts in agriculture and development related fields
Registration or legal documents
- Completed online application form
- Academic certificates an
- Research proposal aligned with FAO work areas
- Valid identification
Project focus requirements
- Agricultural and food systems research
- Policy development and technical analysis
- Sustainable development and food security initiatives
- Scientific contributions that aligns with FAO mandates
Geographic eligibility
- Applicants must be nationals of FAO member countries
- Candidates eligible to work in assigned duty stations
- Individuals able to participate in multicultural environments
- Applicants available for the full fellowship duration
Sector or thematic focus
- Agriculture
- Rural development
- Food security
- Nutrition
- Climate management
- Agrifood systems
Application Process
- Check eligibility requirements .
- Prepare academic credentials and research proposals.
- Create or update a profile on the FAO careers portal.
- Submit an online application under the Call for Expression of Interest.
- Await interview invitation
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Required Materials
- Academic curriculum vitae
- Research proposal
- Academic degree certificates
- Proof of relevant professional experience
- Completed online application form
Key Dates
- Application Opens: 24 January, 2026
- Application Deadline: 25, August, 2026
- Final Selection Notification: After recruitment review
Selection Notes
- The FAO Fellows Programme is highly competitive
- Priority focus areas are food agriculture, nutrition, irrigation and agronomy
- Candidates with immediate family members employed by FAO are not eligible for the programme.
Official Source of the FAO Fellows Programme
Application Page: https://jobs.fao.org/careersection/fao_external/jobdetail.ftl?job=2600010&tz=GMT-08%3A00&tzname=America%2FLos_Angeles