Youth for Biosecurity Fellowship 2024 in Switzerland

Are you a young scientist interested in biosecurity, biosafety, and disarmament? If yes, then the Youth for Biosecurity Fellowship 2024 is the perfect opportunity for you to explore! This fully-funded fellowship program provides the opportunity to visit the stunning city of Geneva, Switzerland, and acquire important information, skills, and experience in the subject. The fully sponsored youth program consists of a five-day field tour in Geneva during the BWC Working Group meetings, an online workshop on biosecurity diplomacy, and an online briefing on the Working Group.

The global norm against biological weapons cannot be maintained without youth voices  being  included  in the multilateral discussions taking place in the framework of the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC). Youth perspectives are key to create innovative solutions and generate long-term engagement. There are particular benefits to including the perspectives of young people from developing countries, where most of the world’s youth is concentrated.

Organized by the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs in Geneva in partnership with key international actors empowering youth in science diplomacy and global biosecurity, the Youth for Biosecurity Fellowship provides a unique learning and networking experience into multilateral discussions taking place in the framework of the Biological Weapons Convention in Geneva.

A center of innovation and brilliance, Switzerland is renowned for its technological prowess and knowledge, drawing some of the most brilliant minds on the planet. Young scientists looking to advance their education have long regarded Switzerland as a popular destination due to its stunning landscape, top-notch research facilities, and world-class universities. The Youth fellowship offers a special opportunity for individuals interested in biosecurity and biosafety to interact with industry experts and obtain practical experience at the forefront of international initiatives to advance disarmament and stop the spread of weapons.

Enthusiastic young leaders have a rare opportunity to interact with leaders; they should think about this life-altering opportunity. Candidates will get the chance to broaden their skills and experience, connect with like-minded people worldwide, and acquire insightful knowledge about the most recent advancements in the field by taking part in the United Nations fellowship in Geneva. Furthermore, this fellowship provides a once-in-a-lifetime travel to Switzerland in addition to the chance for young leaders to make a difference in the field of biosecurity.

This fully financed worldwide fellowship program offers young leaders an exceptional opportunity to participate in the vital task of protecting our planet from biosecurity threats. By enrolling in this program, you will be able to work with like-minded people from all over the world and gain access to a multitude of resources, advice, and support. This is your opportunity to truly impact the future and make it safer and better for everyone. Thus, we strongly advise you to apply to the UN youth program if you’re a young person who is passionate about biosecurity and dedicated to improving the world. Seize this incredible chance to network with other emerging leaders, acquire useful knowledge and expertise, and significantly influence global biosecurity.

Join the Youth for Biosecurity Fellowship if you…

• Are passionate about and have experience in biosafety, biosecurity, disarmament and non-proliferation or youth involvement and want to understand your key role against the misuse of biological agents
• Are willing to learn more about the Biological Weapons Convention and its critical role for disarmament and health security
• Believe that young people can be a force for positive change and want to play an active and forward-looking role in building a more peaceful and secure world
• Want to get an insider view into how science diplomacy happens in multilateral disarmament meetings

Youth for Biosecurity Fellowship 2024 in Switzerland:

Host Country:

• Switzerland

Organized By:

United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs

Fellowship Location:

• Geneva

Mode of Fellowship:

• The fellowship will be a combination of in-person and virtual activities (hybrid).

Benefits of Youth for Biosecurity Fellowship in Geneva, Switzerland:

Youth for Biosecurity Fellowship Program offers a range of benefits to the selected fellows. Some of the key benefits include:

• Fellows will have the opportunity to travel to Geneva and attend the Meeting of the Working Group on the strengthening of the Convention, with all expenses covered.
• Before the field visit, fellows will engage in a month-long online workshop designed to prepare them for the Working Group meeting.
• Fellows will have the opportunity to interact with and learn from leading experts in the fields of disarmament, nonproliferation, biosecurity, biosafety, and health security.
• This fellowship offers opportunities for fellows to collaborate and network with fellow young scientists, diplomats, experts, civil society organizations, and other international youth-driven networks, helping to build a strong and supportive community of early-career professionals in biosecurity.
• By participating in the fellowship, fellows can develop new skills, gain valuable experience in biosecurity, and enhance their resumes, opening up new career opportunities in this field.

Eligibility Criteria for Youth for Biosecurity Fellowship 2024 in Switzerland:

Applicants must fulfill the following criteria to be considered for Youth for Biosecurity Fellowship Program:

• Applicants must be no older than 35 years of age at the time they apply for the fellowship.
• To be eligible for the fellowship, candidates must be citizens of a country listed as a low- or middle-income BWC State Party by the OECD’s Development Assistance Committee. It’s recommended that applicants check if their country is on this list to confirm their eligibility.
• Applicants must have finished a degree in life sciences or a related field from a university or institution that is recognized. If they have studied social sciences but have an interest in biosecurity and health security, then they may also be considered.
• Aspiring candidates must possess strong English language skills in both written and spoken modules.

Documents Needed to Apply for Youth for Biosecurity Fellowship:

The following documents are required to apply for Youth for Biosecurity Fellowship Program:

• Copy of passport
• A detailed resume
• Recommendation letter

How to Apply for Youth for Biosecurity Fellowship in Switzerland?

1. Candidates have to submit an online application.
2. Check the commitment, workshop, and field visit dates before applying.
3. Fill out the online application form and attach the required documents, including a brief resume, a recommendation letter, and a copy of your passport in PDF format.
4. Incomplete or incorrectly filled applications will not be accepted.
5. Candidates for the Youth for Biosecurity Fellowship Program will be chosen by the UN Office for Disarmament Affairs based on factors such as eligibility, gender balance, and geographic location.
6. The shortlisted applications will be evaluated by an international panel based on their experience and interest in areas such as biosecurity, biosafety, and youth advocacy.
7. You will receive an email about three weeks after the application deadline to inform you of the results.
8. If you are chosen, you will have one week to confirm your interest and availability to join the Fellowship.

Application Deadline for Youth for Biosecurity Fellowship:

• The last date to submit the application for the fellowship is 5 April 2024.

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