Young Scientists

About the Young Scientists community

The Young Scientists community was created in 2009 to engage rising-star researchers in the work of the World Economic Forum. The Young Scientists are a community of extraordinary scientists from various academic disciplines and geographies. They are committed to integrating scientific knowledge into society for the public good. In the context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, the community helps leaders engage with science and the role it plays in society. The aims are to:

• Communicate cutting-edge research and position science discourse within the context of scientific evidence


• Develop leadership skills and a fuller understanding of global, regional and industry agendas


• Build a diverse global community of next-generation scientific leaders, committed to engaging in collaborations related to collectively identified issues

The Young Scientist experience: a three-year journey

By joining the community, the incoming class of Young Scientists convene at the Annual Meeting of the New Champions in the People’s Republic of China. In China, Young Scientists connect as a class, participate in the meeting programme and gain exposure to policy and science leaders and entrepreneurs. Within three years of joining the community the Young Scientists will be encouraged to engage in at least one other Forum event or activity.

Selection criteria

Nominations are submitted yearly by leading research institutions who can guarantee the quality and impact of the candidate’s scientific research in addition to the following criteria:

• Aged 39 or younger at the time of nomination 


• Experience as a Principal Investigator, group leader or early tenure track professor 


• Present a recognized record of research excellence


• Demonstrate a commitment to serve society at large through exceptional contribution


• Show an impeccable public record and good standing in their community