Young Security Conference (YSC) Fellowship 2026: Fully Supported Places for Early-Career Professionals
Applications are now open for the Young Security Conference (YSC) Fellowship 2026. This program offers a unique chance for early-career scholars and professionals to engage in important discussions about European and transatlantic security. Up to eight fully supported fellowship places are available for individuals looking to deepen their understanding and contribute to security policy.
Application Closing Date: November 11, 2026
Location: Munich, Germany (for in-person phases)
Programme Duration: December 2026 – February 2027
Stipend: Not specified (benefits include travel and accommodation allowances)
Minimum Qualification: Background in International Relations, Security Studies, Political Science, Economics, or Law.
About the Young Security Conference (YSC) Fellowship
The Young Security Conference (YSC) Fellowship is designed to bring together promising young minds in the field of security studies. The program focuses on high-level debates that are shaping current European and transatlantic security architecture. It provides a platform for participants to gain direct access to political discussions and expand their professional networks.
This fellowship is an excellent opportunity for individuals to present their original policy contributions to an audience of international decision makers and scholars. The goal is to foster new ideas and strengthen the security landscape through informed dialogue and research. The program emphasizes collaboration and the exchange of diverse perspectives.
About Young Security Conference (YSC)
The Young Security Conference (YSC) is an initiative focused on fostering dialogue and developing policy recommendations for contemporary security challenges. It brings together emerging leaders and experts to discuss critical issues facing Europe and the transatlantic community. The conference aims to bridge the gap between academic research and practical policy-making.
The YSC provides a platform for networking and professional development within the security sector. It supports the next generation of security professionals by offering them opportunities to engage with established figures and contribute to ongoing debates. The initiative plays a role in shaping future security strategies.
Available Fellowship Opportunities
The YSC Fellowship 2026 offers up to 8 fully supported places. While specific fields of focus are not listed as separate opportunities, the fellowship is open to those with a background in:
- International Relations
- Security Studies
- Political Science
- Economics
- Law
What the Fellowship Offers
Successful fellows will benefit from a range of support and opportunities:
- Free Participation: Full participation in the Bavarian Winter School on Trade and Security at no cost.
- Travel Grants: Subsidies for travel costs to and from Munich for all required in-person phases of the program.
- Accommodation Allowances: Support for hotel and lodging expenses during residencies in Munich.
- Institutional Infrastructure: Access to workstations, research resources, and event spaces at Amerikahaus Munich.
- Executive Access: Invitations to closed-door roundtable discussions, VIP networking sessions, and institutional study visits.
Programme Duration and Location
The fellowship program will run from December 2026 to February 2027. The in-person phases of the program will take place in Munich, Germany. Participants will have access to institutional resources at Amerikahaus Munich during their stay.
Minimum Requirements
To be eligible for the YSC Fellowship 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be under 35 years of age.
- Possess a proven background in International Relations, Security Studies, Political Science, Economics, or Law.
- Have a demonstrated interest and background in security policy and international affairs.
- Applications from individuals based in NATO/EU countries are encouraged.
Competencies Required
The fellowship is looking for individuals who demonstrate strong potential and relevant skills. Key competencies include:
- Strong analytical and research skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
- A keen interest in contemporary security issues.
- Ability to contribute to high-level policy discussions.
- A proactive and engaged approach to learning and networking.
Who Should Apply?
This fellowship is ideal for young professionals, researchers, policy analysts, and diplomats who are under 35 years old. If you have a solid academic or professional background in fields like International Relations or Security Studies and are eager to engage in critical debates about European and transatlantic security, this opportunity is for you. The program particularly encourages applications from individuals in NATO/EU countries and from underrepresented groups in security studies.
Required Documents
Interested applicants must prepare and submit the following documents in English as a single compiled PDF:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Maximum 2 pages, including your date of birth and contact information.
- Letter of Motivation: Maximum 1 page, clearly articulating your personal motivation for applying and your relevant experience.
- Short Proposal / Working Hypothesis: Maximum 500 words. This should address one of the following core questions:
- How can the EU and UK strengthen their institutional and economic resilience against external hybrid threats?
- Which governance mechanisms can safeguard European foreign and security decision-making against illiberal vetoes?
How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit their application by email to timo.lowinger@ur.de. Ensure that all required documents are compiled into a single PDF file. Read the application requirements carefully and make sure your proposal addresses one of the specified core questions. Submit your application before the closing date of November 11, 2026.
Important Notes
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Late applications may not be considered. Applicants must ensure they meet all eligibility criteria and submit all required documents in the correct format. The selection committee aims for at least 50% female participation.
Closing Date
The closing date for the Young Security Conference (YSC) Fellowship 2026 is November 11, 2026. Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their applications well before this date.
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