$50,000 UNESCO-Al Fozan International Prize for young scientists – apply now

By Nneka Nwogwugwu

Nominations are now open for the second edition of the UNESCO-Al Fozan International Prize for the Promotion of Young Scientists in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). This prestigious award aims to advance research, education, and global collaboration in tackling challenges aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

In line with UNESCO’s commitment to gender equality, the prize recognises young innovators whose work contributes to global socio-economic progress and encourages more women and girls to pursue careers in science.

The award will honour five laureates from five geographic regions of UNESCO (Africa, Arab States, Asia and the Pacific, Europe and North America and Latin America and the Caribbean).

Alongside a medal and a diploma, each laureate will receive $50,000.

Nomination Process

Eligible nominators include:

1. Governments of UNESCO Member States, in consultation with their National Commissions.
2. Non-governmental organisations maintaining official partnerships with UNESCO and active in relevant fields.
3. UNESCO Chairs.
4. UNESCO Category 2 Centres.
5. International scientific unions.
6. Universities (e.g., Head of a Department, Dean, or a University management professional). Note: Individual faculty members and staff cannot nominate candidates.

All nominations must be completed in full in either English or French.

Eligibility Criteria

Candidates must meet the following criteria:

1. Achievements: Recognition for significant contributions in one or more of the following areas:
   • Research in STEM, including emerging technologies.
   • STEM education, dissemination of research findings, creativity, and innovation.
   • International or regional cooperation in STEM.
2. Age: Candidates must be under 40 years old at the time of the application deadline.
3. Gender Equality: Nominations of young women scientists are strongly encouraged to promote gender balance in STEM fields.
   

   Submission Process

   Nominations can be submitted in two ways:

   1. The nominating entity registers online and submits the nomination directly.
   2. The nominating entity provides the candidate with a nomination letter to upload with their application.

   Application Requirements

   Applicants must:

   • Register online: Create a candidate account and complete the user profile at UNESCO’s website.

• Complete the application form: Provide detailed information about achievements and contributions.
• Submit supporting documents, including:
  • A description of their background and achievements.
  • A summary of their work, publications, and other significant contributions.
  • A statement detailing their contribution to the objectives of the prize.

Note: Applications must be submitted in English or French.

Deadline: submission of application is due by 15 April 2025.

All applications must be submitted by 15 April 2025.

For more information, visit UNESCO’s official page.