UNESCO’s first STEM prize, created by its Executive Board on the initiative of the Abdullah Al Fozan Foundation for Education, recognises young people whose STEM work advances research, education or international cooperation.
The third edition (2027) will name five laureates, one from each of UNESCO’s five regions, chosen by the Director-General on an independent international jury’s advice.
Benefits & funding
- US$50,000 per laureate, plus a medal and a diploma.
- Five laureates per edition, one per UNESCO region.
- Awarded every two years.
Eligibility
- Under 40 years old on 30 November 2026.
- Actively involved in STEM when applying.
- Recognised achievements in STEM research (including emerging technologies), STEM education and dissemination, or international or regional STEM cooperation.
- Must be nominated by an eligible entity: a UNESCO Member State government, a partner NGO, a UNESCO Chair or Category 2 Centre, an international scientific union, or a university (heads of department, deans or management only); self-nominations are not accepted.
- Open to all nationalities; young women scientists are strongly encouraged.
- Unsuccessful past candidates may reapply.
Application process
- 1Secure a nomination: an official signed letter on the entity’s letterhead, or a nomination the entity files directly online; each entity may nominate at most three candidates.
- 2Complete the online application in English or French with background, achievements, publications and your contribution to the Prize’s aims.
- 3Submit both application and nomination by 30 November 2026, 23:59 UTC+1; no extensions, and no edits after submitting.
Program timeline
Application and nomination deadline
30 November 2026, 23:59 UTC+1
Laureates notified shortly before the award ceremony
2027