Hey future biosecurity champions and science superstars! 👋 Are you a passionate young female scientist in South Africa or the broader Global South, dreaming of making a real impact on global security? Then you absolutely need to hear about the **UNODA Young Women for Biosecurity Fellowship 2025**!
This isn’t just any bursary; it’s an incredible opportunity to join a prestigious international programme, marking the 50th anniversary of the Biological Weapons Convention. The United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) in Geneva is calling for talented young women to step up and shape the future of biosecurity. If you’re ready to learn, network, and contribute your unique perspective to vital global discussions, keep reading!
Who Can Apply?
Listen up, because here’s who UNODA is looking for:
- You must identify as female.
- You need to be under 35 years old when you apply.
- You must be a citizen of a BWC State Party listed as a Least Developed, Low-income, or Lower/Upper Middle-income country, which includes South Africa and many other nations in the Global South. (You can check the OECD Development Assistance Committee List if you’re unsure about your country!).
- You should have at least a Master’s degree in life sciences or a related field from a recognised university or institution.
- You need at least three years of relevant working experience, perhaps in laboratories, biosecurity research, life sciences, or emerging technologies.
- Excellent English proficiency is a must, and you’ll need to provide proof of mastery.
They’re also keen on ensuring a good regional balance among the selected fellows, so don’t hesitate to put your best foot forward!
When you apply, be prepared to submit a reference letter, a copy of your passport, and confirmation that you can commit to the entire programme.
What Does It Cover?
This Fellowship is packed with benefits designed to boost your expertise and connections:
- **Online Biosecurity Workshops:** Throughout October and November, you’ll participate in a series of intensive online sessions, diving deep into critical biosecurity topics.
- **Mentorship & Networking:** Gain invaluable insights and build connections with experts and peers through dedicated mentorship opportunities.
- **Geneva Field Visit:** The highlight! A five-day all-expenses-paid trip to Geneva from 8 to 12 December 2025. You’ll participate in the Seventh Meeting of the BWC Working Group on the Strengthening of the Convention – talk about making a difference on the world stage!
The programme is designed to be flexible, running over a three-month period and requiring a minimal time commitment to accommodate your work or academic schedules. However, attendance and active participation in all online sessions and the field visit are expected. Remember, you’ll be responsible for obtaining any necessary authorisations from your employer/university and securing your visa for Switzerland.
How to Apply?
Ready to jump on this amazing opportunity? Applying is straightforward:
Head over to the official UNODA webpage for all the details and to submit your application. Don’t leave it until the last minute!
🔗 **Visit the Official UNODA Young Women for Biosecurity Fellowship Webpage Here!**
This is a fantastic chance to boost your career, expand your network, and contribute to global biosecurity efforts! If you’re a young South African female scientist (or from another eligible Global South country) ready for this challenge, don’t miss out. Apply today and explore more incredible international bursaries on Bursaries Room!
