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Call for Nominations: GBEP Youth Award

Deadline: 31-Mar-2026

The fifth edition of the GBEP Youth Award is now open for students and early-career researchers in the Americas to submit innovative bioenergy research. The award recognizes work on sustainable bioenergy technologies, circular bioeconomy, supply chains, policy, and climate change, providing international visibility and presentation opportunities during the 13th GBEP Bioenergy Week. Applications close on 31 March 2026.

About the GBEP Youth Award

The GBEP Youth Award is organized by the Global Bioenergy Partnership and coordinated by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. It aims to:

  • Promote outstanding bioenergy research by young scientists

  • Increase visibility for students and early-career researchers

  • Support research aligned with sustainable development and circular bioeconomy principles

The 2026 edition is exclusively for applicants studying in North, Central, South America, and the Caribbean.

Objectives of the Award

The GBEP Youth Award focuses on research in:

  • Environmental, social, and economic sustainability of bioenergy

  • Circular bioeconomy and innovative production models

  • Bioenergy technologies and supply chain logistics

  • Policy development and governance frameworks

  • Societal practices and climate change mitigation

  • Contributions to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Who Is Eligible?

Eligible Candidates

  • Current students or recent graduates at recognized academic institutions within the Americas

  • Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD level candidates

  • Graduates must have completed their studies in December 2025 or later

Age Requirements

  • Bachelor’s and Master’s candidates: 30 years old or younger

  • PhD candidates: 35 years old or younger

  • Citizenship is not a limiting factor

Geographic Eligibility

  • North, Central, and South America

  • Caribbean countries

Award Benefits

The selected awardee will receive:

  • Formal recognition and an award certificate

  • International visibility through GBEP communication channels

  • Opportunity to present research at the 13th GBEP Bioenergy Week in the Americas (June 2026, tentative)

  • Networking opportunities with global bioenergy experts

Application Requirements

Step 1: Complete Application Form

Include:

  • Candidate information

  • Academic background

  • Research summary

Step 2: Curriculum Vitae

Detail:

  • Education history

  • Relevant experience

  • Publications (if any)

Step 3: Proof of Status

  • Student ID for current students

  • Graduation certificate for recent graduates

Step 4: Research Poster Submission

  • Format: A0

  • Content: Study context, methodology, results, conclusions, relevance to bioenergy

  • Evaluation criteria: clarity, innovation, validity, relevance to scientific and development community

Step 5: Submit by Deadline

  • Deadline: 31 March 2026, 23:59 CET

Why This Award Matters

The GBEP Youth Award provides:

  • Recognition of innovative bioenergy research

  • Exposure to international networks and policymakers

  • Platform to influence sustainable energy solutions in the Americas

  • Support for early-career researchers contributing to climate change mitigation and SDGs

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting posters not in A0 format or missing key sections

  • Incomplete CVs or proof of student/graduation status

  • Missing the application deadline

  • Failing to clearly demonstrate relevance to bioenergy and sustainability

  • Not adhering to age or geographic eligibility criteria

How the Selection Works

  1. Submission review for eligibility and completeness

  2. Assessment of research poster based on:

    • Clarity of presentation

    • Innovation and originality

    • Validity and rigor of results

    • Relevance to bioenergy, sustainability, and SDGs

  3. Announcement of awardee and invitation to present at GBEP Bioenergy Week

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who can apply for the GBEP Youth Award?

Students and early-career researchers (Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD) in the Americas, under age limits specified.

2. What research topics are eligible?

Bioenergy sustainability, circular bioeconomy, innovative technologies, supply chains, policy, societal practices, and climate change.

3. What is the deadline for applications?

31 March 2026 at 23:59 CET.

4. Can recent graduates apply?

Yes, provided graduation was completed in December 2025 or later.

5. How will research submissions be evaluated?

Based on clarity, innovation, validity of results, and relevance to the bioenergy field.

6. What is the poster format?

A0 size, including context, methodology, results, conclusions, and relevance.

7. What benefits does the award offer?

Recognition, an award certificate, international visibility, and presentation at GBEP Bioenergy Week in 2026.

Conclusion

The GBEP Youth Award 2026 offers a unique platform for students and early-career researchers in the Americas to gain international recognition for innovative bioenergy research.

By highlighting sustainable bioenergy solutions, circular bioeconomy practices, and policy contributions, the award encourages young scientists to actively contribute to climate action and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.

For more information, visit FAO.