The AFS – FFAR Fellows Program

CALLING ALL YOUNG SCIENTISTS: APPLY FOR THE FUTURE LEADERS FOR FOOD AND AGRICULTURE (FFAR) FELLOWS PROGRAM WITH ALLIANCE FOR SCIENCE SPONSORSHIP! Are you a passionate and dedicated PhD student pursuing research in food and agriculture-related sciences in the U.S. or Canada? Do you want to take your leadership and professional skills to the next level? The FFAR Fellows Program, led by North Carolina State University, is here to empower you on your journey. The Alliance for Science announces a unique opportunity for our sponsorship of fellows to the prestigious FFAR Fellows Program. This initiative offers unparalleled opportunities for growth, networking, and career development. As an Alliance for Science-sponsored fellow, you will gain access to a unique experience that combines in-person meetings, virtual sessions, mentorship, and industry connections.

Program Overview

The FFAR Fellows Program is a comprehensive 3-year leadership and professional development training designed for Ph.D. students. The program offers a blend of in-person meetings, virtual sessions, networking opportunities, and peer support. Throughout the program, fellows will participate in orientation sessions, engage in professional development planning, and establish mentor-mentee relationships with industry leaders. The curriculum spans self-exploration, communication and teamwork skills, policy understanding, and exposure to diverse career options beyond academia. Over three years each cohort fellows will participate in four in-person meetings and monthly webinars. These gatherings will focus on various aspects of personal and professional development, such as self-exploration, communication skills, teamwork, and creating robust networks of support. As an Alliance for Science-sponsored fellow, you’ll have the chance to attend orientation sessions at North Carolina State University, interact with industry scientists and extension leaders, and explore agriculture industry locations in Research Triangle Park.

Benefits:

– 50% sponsorship by AFS to be matched by FFAR for participation in the FFAR Fellows Program.

– Exclusive networking opportunities with industry scientists and extension leaders.

– Exposure to agriculture industry locations through site visits and industry-specific events.

– Participation in the World Food Prize gathering in Des Moines, Iowa, during Year 2.

– Support and guidance in developing leadership competencies for future contributions to the public good.

– Enhanced understanding of career options, including exposure to industry, government, and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs).

– Professional development assistance, including CV/resume building and interview skills.

– Opportunity to create lasting connections with peers and mentors across disciplines and geographical areas.

You stand to benefit from additional mentorship with your advisor, an industry mentor, and an extra mentor tailored to your interests. This support will be instrumental in creating a personalized Professional Development Plan (PDP) that allows you to set and achieve your goals. Moreover, you’ll receive comprehensive training on effectively communicating your scientific research, whether through presentations, posters, or 3-minute recorded talks.

If you’re driven to develop leadership competencies, engage in multidisciplinary problem-solving, and venture beyond academia into sectors like industry, government, and NGOs, the FFAR Fellows Program is for you. This is your chance to contribute to the public good while enhancing your productivity and well-being.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their applications in line with guidelines provided at the FFAR Website ffarfellows.org including a cover letter, CV, and a statement addressing the selection criteria for the Professional Development Fellows, to zola.madaga@allianceforscience.org by midnight 15th of March EAT.

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to become an Alliance for Science Sponsored Fellow in the FFAR Fellows Program. Elevate your leadership skills, broaden your career horizons, and join a network of like-minded scientists making a difference in the field of food and agriculture.

Apply now and let your journey begin!

For inquiries, please contact +254705114214 we look forward to receiving your applications!