UNESCO and OWSD Early Career Fellowship [USD 50,000]
The Organisation for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD) has partnered with UNESCO and the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) to invite applications for the OWSD Early Career Fellowship. This fellowship provides support to early career women scientists in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields.
OWSD Early Career Fellowship Summary
- Fellowship Sponsor(s): OWSD, UNESCO & IDRC
- Host Institution(s): OWSD
- Funding Amount: USD 50,000
- Number of Awards: Several
- Study Level: PhD
- Nationality: All Nationalities
Eligibility Criteria for OWSD Early Career Fellowship
Applicants are expected to fulfil the following requirements:
- Must have been a resident in one of the listed Science and Technology Lagging Countries (STLCs) for at least 5 years, which do not need to be consecutive.
- Can be citizens of any country, provided the residence requirement is fulfilled.
- Proof of employment at the university or research institute where the research project will be carried out is required.
- The research project must be carried out in one of the listed STLCs.
- Sufficient evidence of salary from the university/research institute for the duration of the two-year fellowship must be provided.
Eligible STEM fields:
- Agricultural Sciences
- Astronomy, Space and Earth Sciences
- Biological Systems and Organisms
- Chemical Sciences
- Computing and Information Technology
- Engineering Sciences
- Mathematical Sciences
- Medical and Health Sciences
- Neurosciences
- Physics
- Structural, Cell and Molecular Biology
Application Procedures for OWSD Early Career Fellowship
How to Apply: Interested candidates must fill and submit the application form online. All documents should be uploaded through the online application system; no documentation should be emailed to OWSD.
Applicants must submit various documents, including passport, proof of residence, PhD certificate, proof of employment, curriculum vitae, publications, reference letters, and a supporting statement from the head of the applicant’s institution, among others.
Application Deadline: March 14, 2025
Visit the Official Website for Further Details
FAQs
What is the UNESCO and OWSD Early Career Fellowship?
The UNESCO and OWSD Early Career Fellowship is a prestigious program that provides up to USD 50,000 in funding to women scientists from developing countries who are in the early stages of their careers. It is designed to support high-quality research projects in STEM fields and to strengthen the role of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Who is eligible to apply for the UNESCO and OWSD Early Career Fellowship?
Eligibility is limited to women scientists who hold a PhD in a STEM field and are citizens of eligible developing countries. Applicants must be within ten years of receiving their PhD and must be employed in a research institute or university in their home country where they will carry out their proposed project.
What kind of projects can be funded under this fellowship?
The fellowship funds projects in STEM disciplines, with a focus on research that contributes to sustainable development. Projects can cover areas such as environmental protection, renewable energy, health sciences, agricultural innovation, and technology development. Proposals should demonstrate strong scientific merit, societal impact, and potential for capacity building in the researcher’s home country.
How can applicants apply for the fellowship?
Applications are submitted online through the OWSD fellowship portal. Applicants are required to provide a detailed research proposal, a budget plan, proof of institutional support, and references. The selection process is competitive and based on scientific excellence, potential impact, and alignment with UNESCO and OWSD objectives.