10 February 2026 12:28 UTC · NATO · NATO News · Source · Email X Link

NATO launches Women and Girls in Science Challenge

Key points

Challenge invites young women from NATO member countries to propose STEM research ideas on disruption scenarios
Up to 12 finalists present at NATO Headquarters; three winners selected

TL;DR

NATO STO launches a challenge asking young women from NATO member countries to propose research on fictional disruption scenarios tied to real-world risks.
Eligible applicants: women aged 18–35 from NATO countries enrolled in or graduated from university-level STEM studies; individual submissions up to 1,300 words.
Selection: up to 12 finalists chosen; finalists present at NATO Headquarters on 9 June 2026; three winners selected and offered professional opportunities.
Deadline: submit by 11 March 2026, 23:59 CET; applications in English only.

Original text

Create an account Reset password Already have an account? Log in From now on you can download videos from our website If you would also like to subscribe to the newsletter and receive our latest updates, click on the button below. Enter the email address you registered with and we will send you a code to reset your password. The password must be at least 12 characters long, no spaces, include upper/lowercase letters, numbers and symbols. Click the button to return to the page you were on and log in with your new password. 11 February 2026 3 MIN READ On the occasion of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, the NATO Science and Technology Organization (STO) launches the Women and Girls in Science Challenge (WGS), inviting young women and girls from across NATO countries to imagine the future and help shape global security. This year’s challenge introduces a new and innovative foresight approach, asking participants to explore fictional scenarios of disruption that test the resilience of the modern world. While the scenarios are imagined, they are rooted in real-world dependencies and emerging risks, encouraging participants to think creatively, analytically, and strategically about the future of security and defence research. Exploring the consequences of losing access to space-based capabilities such as communication and observation. Examining widespread energy disruption and its cascading effects. Imagining the impact of a prolonged loss of global connectivity and digital services. Confronting a scenario where antibiotic supply is halted and countries find themselves unable to treat common bacterial infections. Considering security challenges in an extreme environment where physical military presence is no longer possible. Participants are encouraged to analyse one of these scenarios and propose innovative research ideas that could help anticipate, mitigate, or adapt to such disruptions in a short proposal of up to 1,300 words . Young women aged 18-35 who are nationals of NATO member countries and are enrolled in or have completed university-level studies in STEM fields (including social sciences). This challenge is open to university students (bachelor, master, PhD), early career researchers, or individuals interested in starting a career in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and/or defence. Applications shall be submitted individually. NATO STO experts will select up to 12 applications based on criteria including novelty, relevance, coherence, feasibility and potential positive impact on society. The finalists will be invited to present their ideas in person at NATO Headquarters on 9 June 2026. A panel of experts will then select three overall winners. All 12 finalists will be formally recognised by the NATO Chief Scientist for their contributions to the challenge and invited to join STO’s community of alumni and STEM professionals: STEM Forward . Additionally, the three winners will benefit from a range of professional opportunities, including visits and interactions with STO staff, exposure to NATO’s scientific community, and further engagement opportunities. Submit your application before 11 March 2026, 23:59 CET - Only English applications will be accepted The STO encourages eligible candidates to apply — and invites educators, institutions, and professionals to share this opportunity widely to help reach talented young women across diverse networks. Any inquires may be directed to info@natostowgs.com . Link was copied to clipboard

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