Logo GYA

“The Global Young Academy gives a voice to young scientists around the world.”

To realise our vision, we develop, connect, and mobilise young talent from six continents. Moreover, we empower young researchers to lead international, interdisciplinary, and inter-generational dialogue with the goal to make global decision making evidence-based and inclusive.

The GYA provides a rallying point for outstanding young scientists from around the world to come together to address topics of global importance. As of 2014, the GYA has reached its full capacity with 200 members: leading young scientists, typically 3-10 years after their PhD, between 30 to 40 years of age, and in the early stages of their independent academic careers. Members are selected for their scientific excellence and their commitment to service, and serve five-year terms.

Thus, as of May 2019, the GYA counts 258 alumni in addition to its 200 members; together representing 83 countries. The vibrancy of this global organisation results from the energy of its members, who are passionate about the role of science in creating a better world.

Global Young Academy activities focus on science and policy, the research environment, and science education and outreach as well as the cross-cutting theme GYA and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Current large, externally-funded projects include the GYA’s Global State of Young Scientists (GloSYS) Africa research project, co-operation on capacity building Science Leadership Programmes in Africa and ASEAN, and the emerging project At Risk and Refugee Scholar Membership Initiative.

The GYA also supports the establishment and coordination of National Young Academies around the world: it has helped to establish NYAs in Egypt, the Philippines, Japan, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Nigeria, Israel, and Kenya, and has co-organised regular regional and global meetings of national young academies.

To further strengthen the voice of young scientists around the world, the GYA publishes statements on international science policy and the research environment for early to mid-career researchers, and maintains active links with international science organisations. As part of its global commitment, the GYA works to reduce the science gap between low, middle, and high-income countries by connecting young scientists with diverse backgrounds. GYA members believe that scientists and researchers need to contribute more than their own research findings to society.

The GYA is based in Halle (Germany), where it is hosted by the German National Academy of Sciences Leopoldina.

  • Co-Chair: Roula Inglesi-Lotz
  • Co-Chair: Michael Saliba
  • Managing Director: Beate Wagner

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