Call for Experts: WHO Science Council – Invitation to Apply
Issued by: World Health Organization (WHO)
Release Date: 18 November 2025
Deadline: 16 January 2026
The World Health Organization (WHO) is inviting highly distinguished experts to apply for membership in the WHO Science Council (SC). This call provides an overview of the Council’s role, desired expert profiles, eligibility requirements, and the application process.
Background
As scientific innovation accelerates globally, WHO’s Science Division—led by the Chief Scientist—is committed to strengthening the organization’s leadership in health science, evidence generation, and research equity. The Division ensures that scientific advances are translated into impactful public health standards, policies, and innovations.
The Science Council supports this mission by providing independent, strategic, and high-level scientific guidance.
Functions of the WHO Science Council
Members of the Science Council will:
- Identify emerging scientific and technological trends relevant to global health.
- Provide strategic advice on high-priority scientific issues and translation into public health practice.
- Guide WHO’s actions in science, research, and innovation.
- Participate in rapid, confidential reviews of WHO normative work.
- Highlight ethical, social, and political considerations in rapidly evolving technologies.
- Promote trust in science and evidence-based policy.
- Identify funding opportunities that support WHO’s scientific work.
- Contribute to annual and interim reports for WHO leadership.
The working language of the Council is English. Members meet at least three times per year, either virtually or in person.
Expert Profiles Sought
WHO aims to form a multidisciplinary council of 15–20 globally renowned experts. Applicants should be leading figures with outstanding contributions in fields such as:
- Biomedical research
- Emerging health-relevant technologies
- Data science & analytics
- Equity in access to scientific research and products
- Social sciences
- Health economics
- Health systems
- Governance & ethics
Candidates must possess:
- An internationally recognized record of achievement
- Deep understanding of global health
- Experience working at senior strategic levels (e.g., high-level government, research leadership, international agencies)
WHO also prioritizes:
- Regional diversity—particularly low- and middle-income countries
- Gender balance
- Multidisciplinary perspectives
How to Apply
Submit the following by 16 January 2026 (23:59 Geneva time):
- Cover Letter
- Explaining your motivation and suitability
- Must be written in a personal capacity (no institutional letterhead)
- Curriculum Vitae (maximum 2 pages)
- WHO Declaration of Interests (DOI) Form
Submit your application via the WHO portal:
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted due to high application volume.
Conditions of Appointment
- Members serve in a personal capacity, not as institutional representatives.
- Selected experts must have no real or perceived conflict of interest.
- Compliance with the Code of Conduct for WHO Experts is required.
- A confidentiality agreement must be signed before the first meeting.
- WHO may conduct telephone interviews during the selection process.
- Service is non-remunerated; travel and accommodation for meetings are covered by WHO.
WHO reserves the right to:
- Accept or reject any application
- Modify, postpone, or cancel the call
- Publish names and short biographies of selected members
Inquiries
For questions regarding the call for experts, contact:
sciencecouncil@who.int
For more details: Click Here
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