The voice of South Africa’s young scientists.
Since 2011, the South African Young Academy of Science has brought the country’s exceptional early-career researchers together to shape policy, grow research careers, and take science into public life.
Why SAYAS exists
A vibrant community with a national job to do.
The academy is built on a simple conviction: South Africa’s young scientists belong in the rooms where science policy, funding, and public dialogue are decided.
To be the voice of young scientists in South Africa: a platform for young scientists to influence policy decisions and co-create strategic initiatives and partnerships for a better tomorrow.
To contribute to dialogue, innovation, and science-based solutions for contemporary South African societal problems; develop scientific capacity through mentorship and role-modelling of future scientists; and foster opportunities for national and international interdisciplinary engagements among young scientists.
Strategic objectives
Six objectives. One academy.
Everything SAYAS runs in 2026/2027, from mentorship to science diplomacy, traces back to one of these commitments.
Advance national priorities
Advancing science in alignment with national and regional priorities.
Champion inclusion
Promoting inclusion, equity, and diversity in science.
Create opportunity
Creating developmental opportunities for young scientists.
Translate science for society
Promoting scientific engagement and translating science for societal impact.
Influence science policy
Bringing young scientists’ evidence and voice into national science policymaking.
Build partnerships
Fostering local and international partnerships across the science system.
Leadership
Led by scientists, for scientists.
The 2026/2027 executive committee is elected from the membership and serves the academy alongside full-time research careers.
Twenty new members join the academy from 2026. A dedicated members page follows with the new intake.
Membership
Five years at the centre of South African science.
Membership is granted to exceptional young researchers under 40, generally within seven years of their PhD, who have demonstrated excellence in their fields.
Be nominated
Peers and institutions put forward South Africa’s emerging scientific leaders during the annual nomination window.
Be elected
Nominees are assessed on research excellence and their commitment to the academy’s public and policy mission.
Serve and shape
Members serve a five-year term, running programmes, advising on policy, and representing young science nationally and abroad.
Twenty new members join the academy from 2026. Nominations reopen with the next annual call.
Work with SAYAS
Science in South Africa is young. Join the academy shaping it.
Whether you are an early-career researcher, a partner institution, or a journalist looking for a scientist’s voice, the academy is built to be reached.