Deadline: 11-Mar-2026
The Women and Girls in Science Challenge invites young women aged 18–35 from NATO countries to submit innovative research proposals addressing defence and security challenges. Up to 12 finalists will present at NATO Headquarters, and three winners will receive a visit to the Centre for Maritime Research Experimentation in Italy and engagement opportunities within NATO’s science and technology network. The submission deadline is 11 March 2026 (23:59 CET).
The Women and Girls in Science Challenge calls on young women to submit visionary research proposals tackling pressing defence and security challenges.
Participants must respond to one of five fictional foresight scenarios, designed to stimulate innovative thinking in defence research.
Objective of the Challenge
The challenge aims to:
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Encourage young women to contribute to defence and security research
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Promote innovation in science and technology
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Strengthen engagement with NATO’s scientific community
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Inspire future careers in STEM and defence-related fields
Proposal Requirements
Applicants must structure their proposal around one of the official fictional foresight scenarios (to be released on 11 February 2026).
Each submission must include:
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A clear proposal title
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Selection of a relevant scenario
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Background context
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Explanation of relevance to defence and security
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Defined scientific objectives
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Identification of key scientific topics
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Expected exploitation potential
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Anticipated societal impact
Applications must be submitted in English through the official online form.
Benefits and Recognition
Recognition
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All finalists receive formal recognition from the NATO Chief Scientist
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Opportunity to present research ideas to NATO leadership
Awards for Three Winners
Three selected winners will receive:
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A visit to the Centre for Maritime Research Experimentation (CMRE) in La Spezia, Italy
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Engagement with experts across NATO’s science and technology community
Professional Networking
Finalists will also have the opportunity to join STEM Forward, a professional community that promotes scientific collaboration and strengthens NATO’s science and technology knowledge base.
Eligibility Criteria
The challenge is open to:
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Young women aged 18 to 35
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University students (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral level)
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Early career researchers
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Individuals seeking to begin a career in STEM or defence-related fields
Applicants must:
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Be affiliated with a university
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Be nationals of NATO countries
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Submit their application in English
Selection Process
Evaluation Criteria
Proposals will be assessed by experts from the NATO Science and Technology Organization based on:
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Novelty
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Relevance
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Coherence
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Feasibility
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Potential positive impact
Finalist Selection
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Up to 12 finalists will be selected
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Finalists will present in person at NATO Headquarters on 9 June 2026
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Each finalist will deliver a 10-minute presentation, followed by a 5-minute Q&A session
Key Dates
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11 February 2026 – Fictional foresight scenarios released
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11 March 2026 (23:59 CET) – Submission deadline
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9 June 2026 – Final presentations at NATO Headquarters
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply?
Young women aged 18–35 who are affiliated with a university and are nationals of NATO countries.
2. Is the challenge open to doctoral students?
Yes. Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral students are eligible, as well as early career researchers.
3. What language must proposals be submitted in?
All applications must be submitted in English.
4. How many finalists will be selected?
Up to 12 finalists will be invited to present at NATO Headquarters.
5. What do the winners receive?
Three winners will visit the Centre for Maritime Research Experimentation in Italy and engage with NATO science and technology experts.
6. When is the submission deadline?
The deadline is 11 March 2026 at 23:59 CET.
Conclusion
The Women and Girls in Science Challenge 2026 offers a high-level platform for young women in STEM to contribute innovative research ideas addressing defence and security challenges. With recognition from NATO leadership, international exposure, and professional networking opportunities, the challenge supports the next generation of women leaders in science and technology.
For more information, visit NATO STO.