Young scientists across the globe now have a fresh opportunity to gain international recognition as UNESCO opens nominations for the 2026 UNESCO-Al Fozan International Prize for the Promotion of Young Scientists in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
- Young scientists across the globe now have a fresh opportunity to gain international recognition as UNESCO opens nominations for the...
- The prestigious award, jointly administered by UNESCO and the Al Fozan Foundation, honours outstanding young researchers whose work advances scientific...
- Each winner will receive a cash award of US$50,000, a UNESCO medal, and an official diploma recognising their achievements in...
- According to UNESCO, the prize aims to support young scientists whose work contributes to socio-economic progress and addresses pressing global...
Keep reading for the full breakdown on Awards — everything you need to know is covered below.
The prestigious award, jointly administered by UNESCO and the Al Fozan Foundation, honours outstanding young researchers whose work advances scientific knowledge, promotes innovation, strengthens education, and contributes to solutions for global development challenges linked to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Applications and nominations for the third edition of the prize are now open and will close on 30 November 2026 at midnight UTC+1.
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Five Global Winners to Receive International Recognition
Presented every two years, the UNESCO-Al Fozan International Prize celebrates emerging scientific leaders from five major regions of the world. One laureate will be selected from each of Africa, the Arab States, Asia and the Pacific, Europe and North America, and Latin America and the Caribbean.
Each winner will receive a cash award of US$50,000, a UNESCO medal, and an official diploma recognising their achievements in STEM. The award also offers global visibility for researchers whose work is making meaningful contributions to science and society.
UNESCO says the prize seeks to encourage scientific excellence while fostering collaboration among researchers working across different disciplines and regions.
Focus on Innovation and Sustainable Development
Eligible candidates must be under the age of 40 on the application deadline and demonstrate exceptional accomplishments in STEM-related fields.
The selection committee will consider achievements in scientific research, including emerging technologies, STEM education, science communication, innovation, and international or regional scientific cooperation.
According to UNESCO, the prize aims to support young scientists whose work contributes to socio-economic progress and addresses pressing global issues through scientific discovery and technological advancement.
The initiative also aligns with UNESCO’s efforts to strengthen participation in STEM careers among under-represented groups, particularly women and girls.
Nominations Required for Entry
Unlike many international awards, candidates cannot apply independently. Every submission must be supported by an eligible nominating institution or organisation.
Eligible nominators include UNESCO Member State governments, National Commissions for UNESCO, UNESCO-affiliated non-governmental organisations, UNESCO Chairs, Category 2 Institutes and Centres, international scientific unions, and universities through authorised senior representatives such as deans, department heads, or other institutional leaders.
Individual faculty members and university staff are not permitted to submit nominations on their own.
Applicants must provide details of their academic and professional background, a summary of their scientific achievements, a list of publications, and a statement explaining how their work supports the objectives of the prize. All documents must be submitted in English or French.
Encouraging the Next Generation of Scientists
With five awards worth US$50,000 each, the 2026 UNESCO-Al Fozan International Prize offers a valuable platform for emerging researchers seeking global recognition.
By spotlighting young scientific talent from every region of the world, UNESCO hopes to strengthen international cooperation, encourage innovation, and inspire the next generation of STEM leaders working to tackle some of the world’s most urgent challenges.
For more details and how to apply, click here.