UNESCO-Al Fozan International Prize for Young Scientists in STEM 2026

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), in partnership with the Al-Fozan Foundation, is accepting nominations and applications for the third edition of the UNESCO-Al Fozan International Prize for the Promotion of Young Scientists in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

The international prize recognises young scientists whose work contributes to scientific research, STEM education, innovation and international scientific cooperation.

Eligible Nigerian researchers and young scientists can be considered for the award if they satisfy the programme's requirements and receive a nomination from an authorised nominator.

Benefits

Five laureates will be selected globally, representing UNESCO's five geographical regions.

Each selected laureate will receive:

- US$50,000 in prize money.

- A medal.

- A diploma recognising their achievements.

The prize is intended to recognise outstanding contributions to STEM rather than provide general financial assistance for undergraduate or postgraduate studies.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

- Be under 40 years old as of 30 November 2026.

- Demonstrate significant achievements in science, technology, engineering or mathematics.

- Show contributions to STEM research, education, innovation, scientific communication or international and regional scientific cooperation.

- Meet the programme's nomination and application requirements.

The prize is international, and Nigerian applicants may be considered.

Important Nomination Requirement

Self-nominations are not accepted.

Candidates must be nominated through an eligible institution or organisation. Authorised nominators may include eligible universities, government authorities, UNESCO-partner organisations and recognised scientific institutions.

Individual academics cannot automatically nominate candidates simply because they work at a university. Applicants should confirm that their proposed nominator meets UNESCO's official requirements.

Required Documents

Candidates should prepare the information requested in the official application portal, including:

- Personal and professional background.

- Evidence of scientific achievements and contributions.

- Research publications and other relevant work.

- Information demonstrating contributions to STEM research, education or innovation.

- Supporting documents required by the official application system.

The nominator must also complete the required nomination process and provide the necessary supporting information.

Application Deadline

30 November 2026 at 11:59 p.m. UTC+1.

Both the candidate's application and the required nomination materials must be submitted by the deadline.

How to Apply

1. Review the official eligibility and nomination guidelines.2. Identify an eligible institution or organisation willing to nominate you.

2. Create an account on the official application portal.

3. Complete the candidate application and upload the required documents.

4. Ensure that your authorised nominator submits the nomination and supporting materials before the deadline.

Incomplete applications or applications without a valid nomination may be disqualified.

Official Application Link

Apply for the UNESCO-Al Fozan International Prize" (https://apply.unescoalfozanprize.org/register)

Applicants should read the official prize guidelines carefully before beginning the process.