Deadline: 07-May-2026
The UNESCO MAB Young Scientist Awards 2026 support young researchers working on ecosystems, biodiversity, and sustainability. Grants of up to US$5,000 are awarded for innovative research projects, especially in biosphere reserves. The programme promotes global knowledge exchange and contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The UNESCO MAB Young Scientist Awards 2026 is a global initiative under the Man and the Biosphere Programme. It supports young researchers conducting innovative studies on ecosystems, biodiversity, and sustainable development.
The programme encourages research that contributes to climate resilience, natural resource management, and ecological sustainability, with a strong focus on biosphere reserves and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Programme Objectives
The awards aim to empower the next generation of environmental researchers.
Core Objectives:
- Support young scientists in sustainability research
- Promote studies in biosphere reserves and ecosystems
- Encourage interdisciplinary and comparative research
- Strengthen contributions to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- Facilitate global knowledge exchange and collaboration
Key Focus Areas
The programme prioritizes research aligned with global environmental challenges.
Focus Themes:
- Ecosystems and biodiversity conservation
- Natural resource management
- Climate resilience and adaptation
- Sustainable development and SDGs
- Marine, island, and coastal ecosystems
- Environmental science and innovation
- Youth leadership in sustainability
Award Categories
1. Standard MAB Young Scientist Awards
- Open to a wide range of sustainability research topics
- Focus on biosphere reserves and ecosystems
2. Prince Albert I of Monaco Awards
- Special category for:
- Marine ecosystems
- Island ecosystems
- Coastal issues
Total awards in 2026:
- 6 standard awards
- 5 special category awards
Funding Details
Grant Amount:
- Up to US$5,000 per project
Project Duration:
- Maximum 2 years
Coverage:
- Research-related expenses
- Fieldwork and data collection
Not Covered:
- International travel costs (generally excluded)
Who Is Eligible?
Basic Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be 35 years or younger at the closing date
- Submit applications in English or French
- Obtain endorsement from their MAB National Committee
Additional Requirements
- Proposals must align with:
- Biosphere reserve research
- SDGs and sustainability goals
- Hangzhou Strategic Action Plan 2026–2035
Priority Applicants
- Researchers from developing countries
- Projects with interdisciplinary approaches
- Studies conducted in biosphere reserves
Why This Award Matters
The programme plays a vital role in advancing global sustainability research.
Key Benefits:
- Supports early-career researchers
- Promotes global environmental solutions
- Encourages collaboration across countries
- Strengthens research linked to SDGs
- Builds expertise in biosphere reserve management
How to Apply (Step-by-Step Guide)
Step 1: Develop Research Proposal
- Focus on ecosystems, biodiversity, or sustainability
- Ensure alignment with MAB priorities
Step 2: Select Research Site
- Preferably a biosphere reserve or MAB project site
Step 3: Obtain Endorsement
- Contact your MAB National Committee
- Secure official endorsement (maximum 2 applications per committee per year)
Step 4: Prepare Application
Include:
- Research proposal
- Methodology and objectives
- Expected outcomes and impact
Step 5: Submit Application
- Use official UNESCO application form
- Submit in English or French
Step 6: Evaluation Process
Applications are assessed based on:
- Scientific quality
- Relevance to sustainability
- Innovation and feasibility
Step 7: Project Implementation
- Complete research within 2 years
- Submit progress reports to UNESCO MAB Secretariat in Paris
Key Concepts Explained
Biosphere Reserve
A protected area promoting conservation, sustainable use, and research.
Interdisciplinary Research
Combining multiple academic fields to solve complex environmental problems.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Global goals set by the United Nations to address poverty, climate change, and sustainability.
Climate Resilience
Ability of ecosystems and communities to adapt to climate change impacts.
Important Conditions
- Maximum 2 applications per country (via MAB Committee)
- Research must be completed within 2 years
- Awardees must:
- Submit progress reports
- Allow UNESCO to publish research findings
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing MAB Committee endorsement
- Submitting proposals outside focus areas
- Weak research methodology
- Lack of alignment with SDGs or biosphere reserves
- Incomplete application forms
Expert Tips for Success
- Choose a relevant and impactful research topic
- Align clearly with UNESCO priorities
- Highlight practical applications of research
- Use strong interdisciplinary approaches
- Demonstrate global and local impact
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the UNESCO MAB Young Scientist Award?
A grant programme supporting young researchers in sustainability and ecosystem studies.
2. How much funding is available?
Up to US$5,000 per project.
3. Who can apply?
Researchers aged 35 or below with endorsed proposals.
4. Is endorsement mandatory?
Yes, from the applicant’s MAB National Committee.
5. What is the project duration?
Up to 2 years.
6. Are travel costs covered?
Generally, international travel costs are not covered.
7. What types of projects are prioritized?
Interdisciplinary projects in biosphere reserves aligned with SDGs.
Conclusion
The UNESCO MAB Young Scientist Awards 2026 offer a valuable opportunity for young researchers to contribute to global sustainability and environmental protection. By supporting innovative research in ecosystems and biodiversity, the programme strengthens efforts toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
Applicants with strong, impactful, and well-aligned research proposals will have the best chance to secure funding and make meaningful contributions to global environmental challenges.
For more information, visit UNESCO.
