The FAO Fellows Programme is a fellowship opportunity designed for PhD students, researchers, and professors from FAO member countries. It enables participants to contribute to the organization’s work in agriculture, food security, and sustainable development while gaining international experience. The programme aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and offers a unique platform for knowledge exchange within the UN system.
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a United Nations specialized agency that leads international efforts to defeat hunger and improve food security. It works in over 130 countries to promote sustainable agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and rural development. The FAO Fellows Programme reflects the organization’s commitment to building capacity and fostering expertise in these critical areas.
FAO Fellows Programme Benefits
- Opportunity to contribute to FAO’s work and gain international experience.
- Access to FAO’s knowledge resources and networks.
- FAO does not provide remuneration to fellows.
FAO Fellows Programme Eligibility Criteria
- Be nationals of an FAO Member country.
- Hold a graduate or post‑graduate degree (Master’s or PhD) or be enrolled in a PhD programme.
- Have at least two years of relevant work or research experience.
- Possess working knowledge of at least one FAO official language (English, French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, or Russian).
- Be able to adapt to an international multicultural environment.
- Not have immediate family members employed by FAO.
Required Documents
- Online application form.
- Research proposal.
- Proof of academic qualifications.
How to Apply for FAO Fellows Programme
- Visit FAO’s career portal.
- Apply to the “Call for Expression of Interest” for the Fellows Programme.
- Submit online application with research proposal.
- Re‑apply to new Calls if not selected before closing date.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the FAO Fellows Programme. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the FAO Fellows Programme?
The FAO Fellows Programme is a fellowship for PhD students, researchers, and professors from FAO member countries. It offers the chance to contribute to FAO’s mission in agriculture, food security, and sustainable development, aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, while gaining international experience within a UN agency.
Who is eligible to apply for the FAO Fellows Programme?
Applicants must be nationals of an FAO member country, hold a graduate/post-graduate degree (Master’s or PhD) or be enrolled in a PhD programme, have at least two years of relevant experience, working knowledge of at least one FAO official language, and no immediate family members employed by FAO.
Does the FAO Fellows Programme provide any financial support or remuneration?
FAO does not provide remuneration to fellows. The programme provides an opportunity to contribute to FAO’s work, access knowledge resources, and gain international experience, but it is an unfunded fellowship.
How long does the FAO fellowship last?
The duration varies by project. Fellowships are time-bound assignments, and the length depends on the specific project requirements and FAO’s operational needs.
Where are FAO Fellows located?
Fellows can be based at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy, or at any of its regional and country offices worldwide, depending on the project assignment.
What is the application deadline?
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis through FAO’s “Call for Expression of Interest.” There is no fixed deadline; candidates should regularly check the FAO career portal for current openings and apply accordingly.
What documents are required for the application?
The required documents include an online application form, a research proposal, and proof of academic qualifications. Additional documents may be requested depending on the specific call.
How are fellows selected?
Selection is based on academic qualifications, the quality of the research proposal, and alignment with FAO’s Strategic Framework. Applications undergo competitive review, and only shortlisted candidates are contacted.
What fields of study are eligible?
Eligible fields include agriculture, food security, forestry, fisheries, nutrition, sustainable development, and any other discipline related to FAO’s work.
What is the application process?
Visit FAO’s career portal, apply to the “Call for Expression of Interest” for the Fellows Programme, submit the online application with a research proposal, and re-apply to new calls if not selected before the closing date.
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