Young scientists, researchers and postgraduate students passionate about food security, sustainable agriculture and youth-led agrifood systems transformation have an opportunity to contribute to global policy discussions through the World Food Forum (WFF) Young Scientists Group (YSG) 2027–2029. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), through its Office of Youth and Women and the World Food Forum Youth Initiative, has opened applications for the next cohort of the Young Scientists Group. The initiative brings together emerging scientific talent to contribute research, technical expertise and evidence-based recommendations addressing challenges affecting young people and agrifood systems worldwide. Applications close on 29 January 2027. Eligible candidates must be younger than 36 years old at the end of 2028, hold or be pursuing a graduate degree, and be nationals of an FAO Member State. Although the programme is not a paid employment opportunity, it offers a platform for young researchers to strengthen their scientific communication, policy engagement and international collaboration skills while contributing to global food and agriculture discussions. What Is the World Food Forum Young Scientists Group? Established in 2022, the WFF Young Scientists Group connects emerging researchers and scientists with the FAO Office of Youth and Women and the World Food Forum Youth Initiative. Its purpose is to ensure that scientific evidence, research perspectives and technical expertise inform youth-led efforts to transform agrifood systems. These systems encompass the production, processing, distribution and consumption of food, as well as the social, economic and environmental factors influencing them. The 2027–2029 cohort will contribute to interdisciplinary conversations connecting science, public policy and youth participation. It is particularly relevant to researchers interested in ensuring that decisions about the future of food and agriculture reflect credible evidence and the perspectives of young people. What Will Selected Young Scientists Do? Members of the Young Scientists Group will contribute scientific knowledge and technical support to international agrifood systems initiatives. Key areas of contribution include: Scientific and technical advice: Providing research-based insights to support youth-led agrifood systems transformation. Research and evidence synthesis: Contributing to research activities, reviewing evidence and participating in technical consultations. Biennial reporting: Helping develop a report addressing important issues affecting youth in agrifood systems. Science-policy engagement: Strengthening connections between scientific research, policy discussions and youth participation at the global level. Interdisciplinary collaboration: Bringing different research backgrounds and perspectives into conversations about food and agriculture. The group provides an opportunity for researchers to contribute beyond academic publications by helping make scientific knowledge accessible and useful to policymakers, youth organisations and other stakeholders. Eligibility Criteria for the WFF Young Scientists Group 2027–2029 Applicants must meet the eligibility conditions outlined in the call. Age requirement Candidates must be younger than 36 years old as of 31 December 2028. Applicants should check their eligibility against this specific reference date before preparing their applications. Academic qualifications Applicants must hold a graduate degree or be enrolled in a graduate degree programme at the time of application. The announcement does not restrict eligibility to one academic discipline. Instead, candidates should demonstrate expertise in a field relevant to FAO’s mission and work. Nationality Applicants must be nationals of an FAO Member State. Candidates should verify their country’s membership status and any additional conditions in the official Terms of Reference. Relevant expertise Candidates should have knowledge or research experience relevant to FAO’s work. Depending on their background, this could include areas such as agriculture, food systems, nutrition, climate change, environmental sustainability, economics, rural development or related fields. These are illustrative examples rather than a confirmed exhaustive list of eligible disciplines. English-language proficiency Proficiency in both spoken and written English is required because members will contribute to research, consultations and international scientific communication. Time commitment Selected members must be able to dedicate approximately 20 hours per month to the group. The position operates on a volunteer basis, so applicants should consider whether they can commit the required time alongside their academic, professional or personal responsibilities. What Are the Benefits of Joining? The WFF Young Scientists Group offers professional development and international engagement opportunities for emerging researchers. Participants can strengthen their: Scientific writing and evidence-synthesis skills. Ability to communicate research findings to policy audiences. Understanding of international agrifood systems discussions. Experience working across disciplines and geographical regions. Knowledge of the relationship between science, policy and youth engagement. Opportunities to contribute to research and knowledge products with global relevance. Membership may also help researchers broaden their professional networks and gain experience contributing to international initiatives. Important funding note: The opportunity is voluntary. The supplied announcement does not confirm a salary, stipend, travel funding or other financial benefits. Applicants should consult the official Terms of Reference for details about participation arrangements and any additional conditions. Commitment to Diversity and Global Representation The selection process aims to promote geographical, gender and disciplinary diversity. Applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged. This approach recognises that agrifood systems challenges vary across countries and communities. Researchers from different regions and disciplines can contribute perspectives on food security, agricultural development, environmental sustainability and the experiences of young people. Eligible applicants from the Global South may find the initiative particularly relevant if their research connects local or regional evidence with broader food and agriculture policy discussions. How to Apply for the WFF Young Scientists Group 2027–2029 Interested candidates should begin by reading the official Terms of Reference and preparing an application that demonstrates their eligibility, relevant expertise and ability to contribute to the group. Application steps: Read the official call and Terms of Reference carefully. Confirm that the age, nationality and graduate-degree requirements are met. Identify research or professional experience relevant to FAO’s mission. Prepare the required application materials according to the official instructions. Submit the application through the official application channel before the deadline. Official starting point: Visit the World Food Forum website and locate the Young Scientists Group 2027–2029 open call. The announcement supplied here does not include the direct application form, so applicants should use the official call to access the correct submission link and full Terms of Reference. Application Deadline The deadline for the WFF Young Scientists Group 2027–2029 is 29 January 2027. Applicants are encouraged to start early, review all eligibility conditions and ensure that their applications clearly demonstrate their scientific expertise and interest in youth-led agrifood systems transformation. For young researchers who want to connect scientific evidence with international policy and contribute to the future of food and agriculture, this volunteer initiative offers a valuable opportunity to participate in global conversations through the FAO and World Food Forum ecosystem. Apply by 29 January 2027. Read the official Terms of Reference before submitting your application. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE HERE For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) does not take ownership or credit for the opportunities shared on this platform. All opportunities are sourced from official announcements and external sources for informational purposes only. Applicants are encouraged to verify all details, deadlines, and eligibility requirements from the official source before applying. Opportunities may be updated or changed by the providing organisations.