Are you passionate about global health, diplomacy, and international security? The UN Youth Biosecurity Fellowship 2025 in Switzerland offers an incredible opportunity for young professionals and students to deepen their knowledge in biosecurity and disarmament. Organized by the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA), this prestigious program is fully funded and includes a combination of online workshops and a five-day field visit to Geneva, Switzerland.
This international fellowship is designed to foster youth leadership in biosecurity policy and global health diplomacy, bringing together young experts from eligible low- and middle-income countries. No IELTS or application fee is required.
Summary of the Fellowship
- Host Country: Switzerland
- Location: Geneva
- Organized by: United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA)
- Fellowship Type: Fully Funded
- No. of Fellows: 20 selected participants
- Online Program Dates: 5 June – 5 July 2025
- Field Visit Dates in Geneva: 11 – 15 August 2025
- Application Deadline: 7 April 2025
- Eligibility: Open to citizens of eligible BWC member states
Key Benefits of the UN Youth Biosecurity Fellowship 2025
Participants of the UN Youth for Biosecurity Fellowship will receive:
- Fully funded international travel to and from Geneva
- Free accommodation during the field visit
- Visa support and official invitation letter
- Access to online training led by biosecurity and disarmament experts
- Engagement with international organizations and key stakeholders
The program is supported by the European Union, the Global Health Security Fund, the United Kingdom, and Switzerland.
Fellowship Structure & Duration
1. Virtual Component (June 5 – July 5, 2025)
- Series of online workshops focused on biosecurity diplomacy
- Sessions led by experienced UN experts and international scholars
- Interactive assignments and discussions
2. Field Visit to Geneva (August 11 – 15, 2025)
- Fully sponsored five-day program in Geneva, Switzerland
- On-site visits and engagement with UN offices and diplomatic missions
- Participation in multilateral disarmament discussions
- Networking opportunities with global youth and professionals
Objectives of the UN Youth Biosecurity Fellowship
- Build Expertise: Advance knowledge in biosecurity policy, global health, and arms control
- Enhance Leadership: Strengthen leadership skills in international security and science diplomacy
- Promote Engagement: Create opportunities for collaboration between young scientists and BWC practitioners
- Empower Participation: Provide a platform for young leaders to contribute to disarmament dialogue
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be under the age of 35
- Must be a citizen of an eligible low- or middle-income country party to the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC)
- Must hold or be pursuing an advanced degree in life sciences, public health, or a related field
- Undergraduate students and candidates from social science backgrounds may be considered in exceptional cases
- Women are strongly encouraged to apply
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare the following documents for submission:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Recommendation letter
- Copy of valid passport
How to Apply for the UN Youth Biosecurity Fellowship 2025
Applications must be submitted online via the UNODA official website. All applications must be received by 7 April 2025.
👉 Apply here: UN Youth for Biosecurity Fellowship Official Page
If you’re interested in global biosecurity, youth diplomacy, or international health policy, this fully funded program is an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience and engage with global leaders in Geneva.
