The Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) gathers and evaluates information on biodiversity and ecosystem services to help its member governments and other stakeholders formulate policies based on sound scientific evidence (see www.ipbes.net). Such global assessments call for wide-ranging input, which is why the IPBES wishes to encourage early-career scientists to join its fellows programme.

The programme offers these scientists an opportunity to learn and contribute to international science policy, working across different disciplines. Currently, 33 fellows are participating in four regional assessments (Africa, Asia and the Pacific, the Americas, Europe and Central Asia) and in one thematic assessment (land degradation and restoration).

The strong communication skills of early-career scientists and their experience in public engagement will complement and consolidate the work of senior scientists and experts in describing scientific findings and options to policymakers to ensure the most satisfactory outcome.