UNU-INWEH Independent Scientific Review Board 2026: Call for Global Experts in Food, Nutrition, Science and Sustainable Food Systems

The United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health (UNU-INWEH) is inviting nominations and self-nominations from highly qualified professionals, researchers, academics and recognized specialists to join the Independent Scientific Review Board of the World Food Academy 4 Sustainable Food Systems.

This international opportunity is intended for experienced experts with strong academic, scientific or professional backgrounds in food, nutrition, agriculture, food systems, engineering, science and technology. Selected individuals will help protect the scientific integrity, independence, credibility and academic quality of educational materials developed and delivered through the World Food Academy.

The call presents an opportunity for established professionals to contribute their knowledge to an international initiative focused on sustainable food systems, evidence-based education and the development of future food and nutrition professionals.

Board members will be expected to assess educational modules, examine scientific evidence, evaluate learning materials, identify potential conflicts of interest and provide recommendations that improve the accuracy and reliability of the Academy’s educational programmes.

Unlike opportunities designed for students or recent graduates, this call specifically targets individuals who have already established themselves as experts in relevant fields and can demonstrate the experience and independence required to conduct scientific and technical reviews.

Nominations are currently being accepted by UNU-INWEH. Interested experts should submit their curriculum vitae, a nomination statement of no more than one page and their contact information to the designated email address.

Official announcement: UNU-INWEH Independent Scientific Review Board Call.

1. About the World Food Academy 4 Sustainable Food Systems

The World Food Academy 4 Sustainable Food Systems is an educational and professional development initiative established to promote collaboration, learning, research and career development across food, nutrition, science and technology.

The Academy was developed by UNU-INWEH to help equip the next generation of food and nutrition professionals with the knowledge, practical skills and scientific understanding needed to address challenges affecting food production, distribution, nutrition and sustainability.

Its programmes are designed for university students, early-career researchers and practitioners interested in contributing to more sustainable and resilient food systems.

Through free educational opportunities, practical learning, internships, scientific research projects and applied training programmes, the Academy seeks to make relevant knowledge more accessible to individuals who want to develop careers and contribute to solutions in the food sector.

The Academy’s main areas of interest

The initiative addresses several interconnected areas of sustainable food systems, including:

Agriculture and sustainable food production

This area focuses on the scientific and practical foundations of food production. It considers the relationship between agriculture, soil health, water resources, landscapes, crops, livestock and fisheries.

It also explores how research, improved agricultural practices and technological developments can contribute to more sustainable production systems.

Food science, technology and nutrition

This area examines how scientific research and technological innovation can improve food quality, safety, nutritional value and sustainability.

Relevant subjects include:

• Food processing and preservation.

• Food biotechnology and fermentation.

• Nutrition science and food formulation.

• Food packaging and emerging technologies.

• Digital technologies applied to food science.

• Resource efficiency and sustainable food production.

Food systems value chains and trade

This area considers the processes that connect food producers, processors, distributors, businesses, markets and consumers.

It examines how food moves from production to consumption and how supply chains, logistics, trade and market access influence food availability, affordability and sustainability.

These interconnected areas demonstrate why the Academy requires independent scientific oversight. Educational materials must be accurate, balanced and supported by credible research to ensure that learners receive reliable information.

2. About the Independent Scientific Review Board

The Independent Scientific Review Board is being established to protect the academic standards, scientific credibility and public trust of the World Food Academy.

The Board will provide independent scientific and technical oversight of the Academy’s educational and knowledge products.

Its central responsibility will be to ensure that courses, educational modules, learning materials and other resources offered or endorsed by the Academy meet appropriate standards of scientific accuracy, academic integrity and evidence-based learning.

The Board will operate on a neutral and independent basis. Members will not be expected to promote or endorse particular commercial products, companies, technologies, partnerships or institutional positions.

Instead, their responsibility will be to examine the scientific quality of the information presented and provide objective recommendations based on available evidence.

This independence is particularly important in areas such as food technology, nutrition, agriculture and sustainable production, where scientific findings, technological developments and professional opinions may differ.

The Board will therefore help ensure that the Academy’s educational content reflects credible evidence rather than commercial interests or unsupported claims.

3. Responsibilities of the Independent Scientific Review Board Members

Selected experts will work in coordination with the Director of UNU-INWEH and collaborate closely with the Institute’s project team.

Their responsibilities will involve reviewing educational resources, evaluating scientific information and advising on improvements to the Academy’s learning materials.

The principal responsibilities include:

A. Reviewing educational modules and learning objectives

Board members will examine the Academy’s educational modules to determine whether their content is scientifically sound, relevant and appropriately structured.

This review may include:

• Examining the objectives of individual learning modules.

• Assessing whether educational content addresses the intended learning outcomes.

• Reviewing scientific explanations and technical information.

• Checking whether learning materials reflect established scientific knowledge.

• Assessing the relevance and accuracy of educational examples.

This process will help ensure that learners are exposed to information that is both academically credible and useful in practical professional settings.

B. Evaluating scientific evidence, data and references

Members will examine the scientific evidence supporting the Academy’s educational materials.

This responsibility will involve assessing the quality of research, checking the reliability of references and identifying information that may require further verification.

Experts will be expected to consider:

• The credibility and relevance of scientific publications.

• The accuracy of scientific claims and supporting data.

• The appropriateness of research references.

• The consistency of information with established scientific evidence.

• Whether important research findings have been overlooked.

This will help maintain the accuracy and reliability of the Academy’s educational resources.

C. Assessing scientific validity, balance and transparency

Scientific information should be presented objectively and without misleading interpretations.

Board members will evaluate whether the Academy’s materials provide balanced explanations of relevant scientific issues.

They will also identify areas where additional clarification, supporting evidence or alternative perspectives may be necessary.

This responsibility will help prevent inaccurate information, unsupported conclusions and one-sided presentations of scientific findings.

D. Identifying conflicts of interest and potential biases

Another important responsibility will be identifying actual or potential conflicts of interest that could affect the independence of educational content.

Members will examine whether scientific materials contain commercial influences, institutional biases or material omissions that could undermine their credibility.

The Board’s independent position will help protect the Academy from inappropriate influence and strengthen confidence in its educational activities.

E. Providing written recommendations on educational materials

After reviewing individual modules and learning resources, members will provide written recommendations to guide decisions about their scientific quality.

Recommendations may include:

1. Approval: The educational material meets the required standards and can be approved.

2. Conditional approval: The material may be accepted subject to specified improvements or corrections.

3. Revision: The material requires further changes before it can meet the required standards.

4. Rejection: The material does not meet the necessary scientific or academic requirements.

These recommendations will support a consistent process for evaluating educational content.

F. Advising on periodic reviews and updates

Scientific knowledge is continually evolving, particularly in areas such as food technology, nutrition, agricultural innovation and sustainable production.

Board members will advise on periodic reviews and updates to ensure that educational resources remain relevant as new evidence becomes available.

This will help the Academy maintain the long-term quality of its educational programmes.

4. Qualifications and Professional Experience Required

The opportunity is intended for recognized experts who can demonstrate strong academic, research or professional experience in fields connected to food, nutrition, science and technology.

UNU-INWEH expects nominees to have the technical knowledge, professional judgement and independence required to evaluate scientific information.

The published requirements include the following:

Academic qualifications

Candidates should possess an advanced university degree in a relevant discipline.

Relevant academic backgrounds include:

• Agriculture.

• Food Systems.

• Engineering.

• Nutrition.

• Other relevant academic disciplines connected to food, science and technology.

An advanced degree is expected, while a PhD or equivalent professional experience is preferred.

Professional and research experience

Applicants should demonstrate recognized expertise and leadership in a relevant field.

A strong academic, research or professional track record is expected.

Additional qualifications and experience identified in the official call include:

• Experience in scientific review, advisory roles or expert committees.

• Ability to critically assess scientific evidence.

• Understanding of scientific accuracy, research quality and academic integrity.

• Demonstrated commitment to objectivity and transparency.

• Experience supporting knowledge-sharing and capacity development.

• Ability to contribute to interdisciplinary and international collaboration.

Personal and professional competencies

In addition to academic and technical qualifications, suitable candidates should demonstrate the ability to work effectively in an international, multi-stakeholder environment.

They should also be capable of working under pressure and delivering high-quality scientific reviews within agreed timelines.

These competencies will be important because Board members will be expected to provide objective assessments and recommendations that may influence the approval and improvement of educational materials.

5. Appointment Duration and Time Commitment

Successful candidates will be appointed to the Independent Scientific Review Board for an initial period of one year.

The appointment may be renewed, with the possibility of serving for up to three terms.

This arrangement provides an opportunity for selected experts to contribute to the Academy’s scientific oversight over an extended period while maintaining the independence and professional standards expected of Board members.

Meetings and expected workload

The Board is expected to meet virtually once every quarter.

Members should anticipate an approximate time commitment of eight days per year, covering:

• Reviewing educational modules and scientific materials.

• Preparing written assessments and recommendations.

• Participating in quarterly virtual Board meetings.

• Providing technical and scientific advice.

• Supporting periodic updates to educational resources.

The virtual meeting arrangement makes participation possible without requiring members to travel regularly for Board meetings.

However, candidates should be prepared to dedicate sufficient time to complete reviews and meet agreed deadlines.

6. Remuneration and Benefits

The Independent Scientific Review Board is a compensated expert appointment.

According to the official announcement, Board members will receive compensation for their time.

They may also be reimbursed for approved travel expenses incurred in connection with their Board responsibilities, should travel be considered necessary.

Although the announcement does not specify the exact compensation amount, the remuneration provision makes this an opportunity for professionals to contribute their expertise while receiving payment for their work.

Key benefits of joining the Board

1. International professional recognition

Serving on an independent scientific review board associated with a United Nations University institute provides an opportunity to contribute to an internationally oriented educational initiative.

2. Contribution to sustainable food systems

Members will help improve the scientific quality of educational resources intended to prepare future food and nutrition professionals.

3. Professional and academic engagement

The appointment provides an opportunity to contribute to scientific discussions, educational quality assurance and interdisciplinary collaboration.

4. Paid expert service

Members will receive compensation for their time, with possible reimbursement of approved travel expenses where necessary.

5. Opportunity to influence evidence-based education

Board members will contribute to decisions about the scientific accuracy, reliability and suitability of educational materials.

6. International collaboration

The role involves working with UNU-INWEH’s Director and project team in an international, multi-stakeholder environment.

7. Independence and Conflict of Interest Requirements

Independence is one of the central requirements of this appointment.

The Board is expected to operate independently of external institutions and stakeholders, including United Nations entities, government agencies and private companies.

Members will serve in their individual expert capacity rather than representing their employers, institutions or other organisations.

The official announcement also establishes specific restrictions intended to protect the Board’s impartiality.

Conflict-of-interest declarations

All appointed members must disclose actual, potential or perceived conflicts of interest.

These may include:

• Professional relationships.

• Financial relationships.

• Consulting arrangements.

• Family relationships that could affect independence.

Members will be required to recuse themselves from matters where a conflict exists.

Restrictions involving Academy partners

The official announcement specifies that Board members:

• Must not be on the payroll of any of the Academy’s partners.

• Must not have a consultancy relationship with any of the partners beyond the compensation received for Board membership through UNU-INWEH.

• Must not have a spouse, partner or second-degree relative employed by, or maintaining a consultancy relationship with, any of the partners.

• Must not have had significant business dealings with the partners during the six months preceding the start of their mandate.

These conditions are intended to prevent situations in which personal, professional or financial interests could compromise the Board’s independent judgement.

Candidates should carefully consider these requirements before accepting an appointment.

8. How to Apply for the UNU-INWEH Independent Scientific Review Board

UNU-INWEH is accepting both nominations and self-nominations.

This means that qualified experts can be nominated by another individual or organisation, or put themselves forward for consideration.

Interested candidates must prepare and submit three essential documents or pieces of information.

Required application documents

1. Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Applicants should submit an updated CV highlighting their academic qualifications, professional experience, research background and relevant expertise.

The CV should clearly demonstrate their suitability for an independent scientific and technical review role.

Relevant information may include:

• Academic qualifications and professional certifications.

• Research experience and scientific publications.

• Experience in food, nutrition, agriculture or related disciplines.

• Previous advisory or scientific review responsibilities.

• Membership in relevant professional or academic committees.

• Relevant leadership and professional achievements.

2. Nomination statement (maximum one page)

Candidates must provide a brief nomination statement explaining why they are suitable for membership of the Independent Scientific Review Board.

The statement should describe their qualifications, expertise and ability to conduct independent scientific and technical reviews.

A strong nomination statement should explain:

• The candidate’s relevant academic and professional background.

• Their specific area of scientific or technical expertise.

• Their experience evaluating research, scientific evidence or educational materials.

• Their understanding of scientific integrity and impartiality.

• Their ability to contribute to the Academy’s objectives.

• Their commitment to maintaining independence and transparency.

The statement should remain within the one-page limit.

3. Contact details

Candidates must also provide their contact information, including:

• Full name.

• Email address.

• Current professional position.

• Institutional affiliation.

These details will enable UNU-INWEH to communicate with nominees during the selection process.

Where to submit your application

Applicants should ensure that all required information is included before submitting their nomination.

9. Nomination and Selection Process

The selection process will be overseen by UNU-INWEH and will involve several stages.

Stage 1: Submission of nominations

Interested individuals or nominators submit the required documents by email.

Both self-nominations and nominations made by other individuals are accepted.

Stage 2: Eligibility and independence assessment

Following submission, nominees will be assessed against the Board’s eligibility, independence and conflict-of-interest requirements.

Candidates may be asked to disclose additional information concerning actual, potential or perceived conflicts of interest.

This may include professional, financial, consulting or family relationships that could affect their independence.

Stage 3: Selection and appointment

UNU-INWEH will oversee the selection process and appointment of Board members.

Successful candidates will serve in their individual expert capacity and will be expected to maintain their independence throughout their appointment.

The official announcement does not specify a fixed number of available Board positions or a detailed selection timetable.

10. Why This Opportunity Matters for Sustainable Food Systems

Sustainable food systems are essential to addressing global challenges related to hunger, malnutrition, food security, environmental degradation and the responsible use of natural resources.

Food systems involve a wide range of interconnected activities, from agricultural production and processing to transportation, distribution, trade and consumption.

Challenges in one part of the system can affect other areas, making scientific research and interdisciplinary collaboration particularly important.

For example, agricultural practices influence soil health, water availability and biodiversity. Food processing technologies affect food safety, quality and nutritional value. Distribution networks influence the affordability and availability of food.

Addressing these challenges requires professionals who understand the scientific, technological, economic and environmental dimensions of food systems.

The World Food Academy aims to support this development by providing educational and practical learning opportunities.

However, the quality of such education depends on the accuracy of the information being presented.

The Independent Scientific Review Board will therefore play an important role in ensuring that learning materials are supported by credible research and that scientific knowledge is communicated responsibly.

By bringing together recognized experts, the initiative seeks to strengthen trust in educational resources and support the development of professionals capable of contributing to more resilient and sustainable food systems.

11. Important Dates and Application Deadline

The official UNU-INWEH announcement was published on 8 October 2026.

However, the published call does not provide a specific closing date for nominations.

Interested experts should therefore consult the official announcement and contact UNU-INWEH directly through the designated email address to confirm whether nominations are still being accepted.

• Opportunity announcement: 8 October 2026.

• Appointment duration: One year.

• Possible renewal: Up to three terms.

• Expected meetings: Once every quarter, virtually.

• Estimated annual commitment: Approximately eight days.

• Application deadline: Not specified in the official announcement.

• Application email: worldfoodacademy@unu.edu.

Official opportunity information: Read the full UNU-INWEH announcement.

12. Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who is organising this opportunity?

The opportunity is organised by the United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health (UNU-INWEH) for the World Food Academy 4 Sustainable Food Systems.

2. Can individuals nominate themselves?

Yes. Both nominations and self-nominations are accepted.

3. What academic qualifications are required?

Candidates should have an advanced university degree in Agriculture, Food Systems, Engineering, Nutrition or another relevant field. A PhD or equivalent professional experience is preferred.

4. Is this opportunity suitable for recent graduates?

The call targets recognized experts with established academic, research or professional track records. It is not designed as an entry-level opportunity for recent graduates without relevant expertise.

5. Is the position paid?

Yes. Board members will receive compensation for their time. Approved travel expenses may also be reimbursed where necessary.

6. How long is the appointment?

The initial appointment is one year, with the possibility of renewal for up to three terms.

7. How much time will members dedicate to the role?

The expected commitment is approximately eight days annually, including scientific reviews and virtual quarterly meetings.

8. Is there an application fee?

The official announcement does not mention an application fee.

9. Is there a specific application deadline?

No closing date is provided in the published announcement. Candidates should contact UNU-INWEH to confirm the nomination timeline.

10. Can experts from outside the United Nations system apply?

The announcement welcomes recognized experts and establishes independence requirements. It does not restrict nominations to people employed by the United Nations or a particular institution.

13. Conclusion

The UNU-INWEH call for nominations to the Independent Scientific Review Board of the World Food Academy 4 Sustainable Food Systems offers experienced professionals an opportunity to contribute to the quality, credibility and independence of international food and nutrition education.

Through scientific reviews, technical assessments and expert recommendations, selected members will help ensure that the Academy’s educational materials meet appropriate standards of scientific accuracy and academic integrity.

The one-year appointment, possibility of renewal, compensated service and virtual quarterly meetings make this an opportunity for established experts interested in contributing to sustainable food systems while remaining professionally engaged in their respective fields.

Qualified professionals with advanced academic qualifications, relevant research or professional experience, and a strong commitment to independent scientific assessment are encouraged to submit their nominations.

Since no application deadline has been published, interested experts should contact UNU-INWEH as soon as possible to confirm the current nomination arrangements.

Apply by submitting your CV, a one-page nomination statement and your contact details to worldfoodacademy@unu.edu.