UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Programme 2026
Are you ready to take your research career global? The Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB) by UNESCO brings an incredible opportunity for life science graduates through the prestigious Young Scientists Award. This funding initiative supports innovative research in biodiversity, ecosystems, and sustainability, empowering young researchers in India and worldwide to make a real environmental impact.
About UNESCO
UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) is a globally recognized body promoting education, science, and culture. Through initiatives like the Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB), UNESCO supports cutting-edge research and offers the Young Scientists Award, creating valuable opportunities for life science graduates worldwide.
MAB Young Scientists Awards 2026
- Program: Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme – UNESCO
- Deadline: 07 May 2026
- Funding Amount: Up to USD 5,000
- Research Duration: Up to 2 Years
About the Program
The Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme by UNESCO offers the MAB Young Scientists Awards to support emerging researchers working on ecosystems, biodiversity, and sustainable resource management. Established in 1989, the program aims to empower young scientists to address global ecological challenges through innovative research.
Since 2022, additional fellowships have been supported by the Principality of Monaco, focusing specifically on marine, island, and coastal biosphere research. In 2024, these were formally named the “MAB Young Scientist Awards – Prince Albert I of Monaco.”
Program Overview
The awards provide financial support to young researchers conducting interdisciplinary studies, particularly within biosphere reserves. The initiative aligns with global sustainability goals and contributes to the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development and the Hangzhou Strategic Action Plan (2026–2035).
Objectives
- Encourage young scientists, especially from developing countries, to conduct research in biosphere reserves
- Promote comparative and interdisciplinary research across different ecosystems
- Foster collaboration and knowledge exchange among emerging researchers globally
- Support implementation of sustainability frameworks such as the SDGs
- Increase engagement in marine, island, and coastal ecosystem research
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must be 35 years or younger at the application deadline
- Applications must be submitted in English or French using the official format
- Endorsement by the applicant’s MAB National Committee is required (maximum two nominations per country per year)
- Research proposals must demonstrate:
- Clear linkage to ongoing or past research
- Originality (not funding already completed projects)
- Contribution to biosphere reserves and sustainability goals
- Applicants from developed countries are eligible only in exceptional cases or through collaboration with developing countries
Funding & Awards
- Maximum grant: USD 5,000 per project
- Total awards in 2026: 11
- 6 general MAB Young Scientist Awards
- 5 Prince Albert I of Monaco Awards (focused on marine, island, and coastal research)
Key Requirements
- Research must be completed within 2 years
- Awardees must submit research reports to the MAB Secretariat and National Committees
- UNESCO reserves the right to publish research outcomes
- International travel expenses are generally not covered
Application Process
- Submit the completed application form (English or French)
- Obtain endorsement from the MAB National Committee (or UNESCO National Commission where applicable)
- Ensure submission before 07 May 2026
Selection Process
Applications are evaluated based on:
- Scientific quality and relevance
- Interdisciplinary approach
- Contribution to biosphere reserves and sustainability goals
- Alignment with global frameworks such as SDGs and the Hangzhou Strategic Action Plan
