The NATO Science & Technology Organization (STO) is calling on young women aged 18 to 35 from NATO Nations and partner countries to submit innovative research proposals as part of the Women and Girls in Science 2026 Challenge. This annual initiative celebrates the International Day of Women and Girls in Science by inviting early-career female scientists and engineers to present research that addresses real-world defence foresight scenarios.
Participants are asked to develop creative solutions to complex security challenges using their STEM expertise. Selected finalists will have the opportunity to present their work at NATO Headquarters in Brussels on 9 June 2026, gaining visibility among top-level defence and science professionals and networking with peers across the Alliance.
The challenge is open to women at various stages of their academic and professional journey, including undergraduate and postgraduate students, as well as early-career researchers. It represents an excellent opportunity for young women in STEM to showcase their talent and contribute to cutting-edge security research on an international stage.
Submission deadline: 11 March 2026. Finalists present at NATO HQ: 9 June 2026.
More information and application details at: https://www.sto.nato.int/women-and-girls-in-science/