Application Deadline: 31 October 2025
Applications are now open for the 2026 UNFCCC-UNU Early Career Climate Fellowship Programme. The UNFCCC – UNU Early Career Climate Fellowship Programme offers young people from developing countries a unique opportunity to start their career at the interface between international climate policy development and research. Fellowships may last from twelve months to two years, and Fellows will be selected based on their skills and backgrounds vis-à-vis the needs of UNU and UNFCCC.
Upon completion of the UNFCCC – UNU Early Career Climate Fellowship Programme, the Early Career Climate Fellows will be able to work in their home countries or internationally, deploying the valuable experience and insights they have gained in Bonn. Academically outstanding young graduates from developing countries who are in the early stages of their career, especially women from least developed countries, are encouraged to apply.
Requirements
- Candidates should be a national of a developing country, with preference being given to women from a least developed country (as per the UN country classification); dual nationality will not preclude the candidate from further consideration;
- Academically outstanding young graduates from developing countries, especially women from the least developed countries, are encouraged to apply.
- Candidates should have recently graduated with an advanced university degree (Master’s, doctorate, or equivalent), or be enrolled in their final semester, in fields related to climate change and environment, communications, international relations, or a related field;
- Candidates should provide evidence of top academic performance (i.e. scholarships, graduation with honors, etc.) from a graduate school programme (i.e. Master’s or doctorate). Candidates holding only a Bachelor’s degree and who have not yet completed or who are not yet in the final semester of a Master’s degree programme will not be considered;
- No professional experience is required; candidates with up to two years of work experience in total can also be considered.
Benefits
- Immersive professional experience within the UN system
- Opportunities to contribute to global climate negotiations and processes
- Mentorship from seasoned experts in climate policy and research
- Capacity building and training tailored to international climate governance
- Post-fellowship career prospects in home countries, UN agencies, international organizations, or climate-focused institutions
The Application Process
Please note: applications will only be accepted during the aforementioned open call.
A complete application package consists of the following mandatory documents:
1) A cover letter (maximum 1 page in length) setting out how the qualifications, experience and future career goals match the requirements of the programme and preferred working areas at UNU-EHS/VIE and UNFCCC
2) An up-to-date CV (maximum 2 pages in length);
3) A completed and signed UNU Personal History Form (P11); and
4) Copies of all academic transcripts/degree certificates to date saved in one PDF file.
For More Information:
Visit the Official Webpage of the UNFCCC-UNU Early Career Climate Fellowship Programme
