The MAB Young Scientist Awards 2026 support a new generation of scientists worldwide to address ecological and sustainability issues. These awards grant up to US$5,000 to young researchers for studies on ecosystems, natural resources, and biodiversity, with a focus on biosphere reserves.
UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB) has been investing in young scientists since 1989. Since 2022, the Principality of Monaco has supported additional awards for marine, island, and coastal studies. In 2026, a total of 11 awards will be granted: six general and five Prince Albert I of Monaco awards.
Benefits of MAB Young Scientist Awards 2026
- Up to US$5,000 per award
- Support for research on ecosystems, natural resources, and biodiversity
- Opportunity to work in biosphere reserves designated under the MAB Programme
- Encourages interdisciplinary projects contributing to the Hangzhou Strategic Action Plan and SDGs
- Additional awards for marine, island, and coastal studies (Prince Albert I of Monaco awards)
Eligibility Criteria for the MAB Young Scientist Awards 2026
- Applicants must not be older than 35 years at the closing date of the application
- Applications must be endorsed by the applicant’s MAB National Committee (or National Commission for UNESCO if no MAB National Committee exists)
- Only two applications per year per MAB National Committee are allowed
- Priority given to interdisciplinary projects carried out in biosphere reserves or potential biosphere reserves
- Applicants from developed countries are eligible only in exceptional cases or if working in joint partnership with developing countries
- Research supported by an Award must be completed within two years
- Candidates must agree to submit reports of Award-funded research to the MAB Secretariat and their MAB National Committees
- International travel expenses are usually not covered
How to Apply for the MAB Young Scientist Awards 2026
- Fill out the MAB Young Scientists Award application form in English or French
- Ensure the application is endorsed by your MAB National Committee (or National Commission for UNESCO if no MAB National Committee exists)
- Submit the application to UNESCO before the deadline: 07 May 2026
- Include concise information on past and existing research to avoid duplication
- Identify how your research contributes to the Hangzhou Strategic Action Plan and SDGs
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the MAB Young Scientist Awards. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the MAB Young Scientist Awards?
The MAB Young Scientist Awards are grants of up to US$5,000 provided by UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere Programme to support young researchers working on ecosystems, natural resources, and biodiversity, especially in biosphere reserves.
Who can apply for the MAB Young Scientist Awards?
Young scientists who are not older than 35 years at the closing date of the application can apply. Applications must be endorsed by the applicant’s MAB National Committee, which can endorse only two applications per year.
What is the deadline for the 2026 MAB Young Scientist Awards?
The deadline for applications is 07 May 2026. Applications must be received by UNESCO no later than this date to be eligible.
How much funding is provided by the MAB Young Scientist Awards?
Each award is set at a maximum of US$5,000. In 2026, a total of 11 awards will be granted: six under the general criteria and five additional awards for marine, island, and coastal studies.
What types of research are prioritized for the MAB Young Scientist Awards?
Priority is given to interdisciplinary projects carried out in biosphere reserves or potential biosphere reserves that contribute to the Hangzhou Strategic Action Plan and the Sustainable Development Goals.
Can applicants from developed countries apply?
Applicants from developed countries are eligible only in exceptional cases or if they are working in joint partnership with developing countries.
How long does the research supported by the award need to be completed?
Research supported by an award should be completed within two years.
What are the reporting requirements for award recipients?
Candidates must agree to submit reports of award-funded research to the MAB Secretariat in Paris and to their MAB National Committees, and agree to UNESCO publishing the results of their research.
Are international travel expenses covered by the MAB Young Scientist Awards?
International travel expenses are usually not covered under these awards.
How can I apply for the MAB Young Scientist Awards?
You must fill out the MAB Young Scientists Award application form in English or French, have it endorsed by your MAB National Committee, and submit it to UNESCO before the deadline. The application form is available on the UNESCO SharePoint site.
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