Are you a young researcher passionate about science, sustainable development, food security, or agricultural innovation? The World Food Forum Young Scientists Group Program offers an opportunity to contribute your knowledge and research skills to global discussions about the future of food and agriculture.

The Young Scientists Group brings together emerging researchers from different disciplines and regions. Members help provide scientific evidence and technical knowledge to support the World Food Forum’s youth initiatives, research activities, and discussions on transforming agrifood systems.

The programme is particularly relevant to researchers who want to connect scientific knowledge with real-world challenges, collaborate internationally, and help ensure that young people’s perspectives inform sustainable development.

What Is the Young Scientists Group?

The Young Scientists Group is part of the World Food Forum’s youth initiative. Established in 2022, it provides scientific and technical input for programmes such as the Youth Assembly, Youth Innovation Lab, and Youth Education Programme.

The group also contributes to research and reporting on issues that matter to young people in the transformation of global agrifood systems.

Its work helps connect research with policy discussions and practical solutions, encouraging evidence-based approaches to global food and sustainability challenges.

Key Areas of Work

The group’s work aligns with the Food and Agriculture Organization’s Four Betters framework, which promotes improvements in production, nutrition, the environment, and people’s lives.

Who Should Consider Applying?

The opportunity is aimed at emerging and early-career researchers with relevant academic backgrounds and a commitment to contributing to global agrifood systems transformation.

Based on the programme’s published terms of reference, prospective applicants should check the following general requirements:

• Have graduated from, or be enrolled in, a graduate degree programme at the time of application.
• Meet the age requirements specified in the current cohort’s terms of reference.
• Have a specialisation relevant to the mission and work of the Food and Agriculture Organization.
• Demonstrate research interests or experience relevant to agrifood systems transformation.
• Have English-language proficiency and the ability to work in an international, multicultural environment.
• Show a commitment to teamwork, scientific quality, and contributing to society.

The previous cohort’s terms of reference included an age limit of under 36, but applicants should consult the current 2027–2029 documents to confirm the applicable age criteria and all other eligibility rules.

What Could Participants Gain?

Participation offers professional and academic development opportunities for researchers interested in connecting science with international youth engagement and policy discussions.

• International collaboration: Work alongside emerging researchers from different backgrounds and disciplines.
• Research contributions: Help develop scientific outputs addressing important agrifood challenges.
• Policy engagement: Contribute evidence and technical perspectives to youth-led discussions.
• Professional development: Build experience in teamwork, scientific communication, and collaborative research.
• Global networking: Connect with people working on food systems, agriculture, nutrition, and sustainability.

Important: This is a research and participation opportunity, not a confirmed cash grant or scholarship. Applicants should review the official terms for the expected workload, travel arrangements, expenses, and any financial support available.

How to Prepare Your Application

1. Visit the official programme page. Confirm that applications for the 2027–2029 cohort are still being accepted.
2. Read the current terms of reference. Review the eligibility criteria, responsibilities, and selection process.
3. Prepare your academic CV. Highlight your education, research experience, publications, presentations, and relevant activities.
4. Explain your contribution. Be ready to describe how your expertise and research interests could support the group’s mission.
5. Check supporting documents. Follow the current application instructions for recommendations, forms, videos, or other required materials.
6. Submit through the official channel. Follow the current deadline and application instructions listed by the World Food Forum.

Where to Find the Official Application

For the most accurate information about the Young Scientists Group, including the current application form, terms of reference, and selection criteria, use the official World Food Forum website.

Final Thoughts

The World Food Forum Young Scientists Group is an opportunity for eligible early-career researchers to contribute their expertise to discussions about food security, sustainable agriculture, nutrition, and environmental challenges.

For young scientists seeking international collaboration and a chance to connect research with practical global issues, the 2027–2029 cohort is worth exploring. Review the current eligibility requirements carefully and submit your application through the official programme channel if you qualify.