The UNESCO MAB Young Scientist Awards 2026 are open to young researchers working on ecosystems, natural resources, and biodiversity. Through this grant, UNESCO supports research that advances the Man and the Biosphere Programme, especially interdisciplinary projects in biosphere reserves or potential biosphere reserves.
In addition, priority goes to projects that contribute to the Hangzhou Strategic Action Plan and the Sustainable Development Goals. For 2026, UNESCO will offer 11 awards, including additional awards for marine, island, and coastal studies.
Application Deadline: 07 May 2026
Eligible Countries: Not specified – please see official page
Host Organization: UNESCO
Grant Amount: US$5,000 each
Number of Awards: 11 awards in 2026 (6 general awards and 5 additional awards for marine, island and coastal studies)
Project Duration: Research supported by an Award should be completed within two years.
Location: Research in biosphere reserves or potential biosphere reserves; reports submitted to the MAB Secretariat in Paris and to MAB National Committees.
About the Grant
Through the MAB Young Scientists Awards, UNESCO supports a new generation of scientists worldwide. The programme funds research on ecosystems, natural resources, and biodiversity.
Moreover, the awards favor interdisciplinary research carried out in biosphere reserves designated under the Man and the Biosphere Programme or in potential biosphere reserves. UNESCO also notes that applicants from developed countries are eligible only in exceptional cases or when working in joint partnership with developing countries.
Eligibility
- Applicants must not be older than 35 years of age at the closing date of the application.
- Applications must be made on the MAB Young Scientists Award application form in English or French and follow the technical requirements stated there.
- The application must be endorsed by the applicant’s MAB National Committee.
- Each MAB National Committee may endorse only two applications per year.
- Applications must contain concise information on past and existing research to present linkages, avoid duplication, and ensure the Award does not finance already completed projects.
- Priority is given to interdisciplinary projects carried out in biosphere reserves designated under the Man and the Biosphere Programme or potential biosphere reserves and contributing to the Hangzhou Strategic Action Plan and the SDGs.
- Applicants from developed countries are eligible only in exceptional cases or if working in joint partnership with developing countries.
Grant Amount: US$5,000 each
Project Duration: Research supported by an Award should be completed within two years.
Funding Scope Up to US$5,000 per award. Additional annual awards are supported by the Principality of Monaco for studies on marine, island and coastal issues in biosphere reserves. However, international travel expenses are usually not covered.
How to Apply
Applicants must complete the MAB Young Scientists Award application form in English or French. They must also secure endorsement from their MAB National Committee before submission.
Required documents include:
- MAB Young Scientists Award application form (in English or French)
- Endorsement by the applicant’s MAB National Committee
Awardees are expected to submit reports of Award-funded research to the MAB Secretariat in Paris and to their MAB National Committees. They must also agree to UNESCO publishing the results of their research.
👉 Visit the official grant page for details
