Deadline: February 20, 2026
The Royal Society Africa Prize 2026 is a prestigious international award recognising outstanding African-based scientists whose research in the biological or physical sciences demonstrates excellence, innovation, and a strong commitment to building scientific capacity across Africa. The Prize supports high-impact research and celebrates scientific leadership on the continent.
The Royal Society Africa Prize 2026 is one of the Royal Society’s flagship awards dedicated to strengthening research ecosystems in Africa and increasing the global visibility of African science.
About the Royal Society Africa Prize 2026
The Royal Society Africa Prize is awarded annually to an African scientist conducting research in Africa. The Prize recognises significant research achievements and supports the continuation of work that contributes to scientific advancement and long-term capacity building within African institutions.
The award focuses on research excellence, leadership, and the potential for sustained impact beyond the funding period.
Prize Benefits
Recipients of the Royal Society Africa Prize 2026 will receive:
- £15,000 research grant to support the winner’s research programme
- £2,000 personal award
- A bronze medal awarded by the Royal Society
- An invitation to deliver a Prize Lecture organised by the Royal Society
These benefits are designed to enhance research delivery, strengthen capacity, and promote international scientific engagement.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants for the Royal Society Africa Prize 2026 must meet the following requirements:
- Be an African citizen
- Be based in Africa and actively conducting research on the continent
- Be a senior or established researcher with a strong track record of scientific achievement
- Demonstrate the ability to lead a research programme with impact beyond the Prize funding
- Conduct research in the biological or physical sciences
The Prize particularly supports scientists whose work contributes to strengthening research capacity within Africa.
Selection Criteria
Nominations are assessed based on:
- Scientific excellence and originality
- Impact of the research on science and society
- Contribution to capacity building in Africa
- Potential for the research to continue and scale beyond the award period
The Royal Society seeks candidates whose work advances knowledge while strengthening Africa’s scientific ecosystem.
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 1 December 2025
- Application Deadline: 20 February 2026
- Announcement of Winner: August 2026
Applicants are encouraged to begin preparations early to ensure a strong and complete nomination.
How to Apply
Applications for the Royal Society Africa Prize 2026 are submitted through an online nomination process. Candidates are typically nominated by recognised academics or research leaders familiar with their work and impact.
All nominations must be completed and submitted before the stated deadline.
Why Apply for the Royal Society Africa Prize 2026?
The Royal Society Africa Prize 2026 offers more than financial support. It provides:
- International recognition from one of the world’s leading scientific institutions
- Increased visibility for African-led research
- Opportunities for global collaboration
- Support for long-term scientific capacity building in Africa
For senior African researchers, the Prize represents a major career milestone and a platform to amplify research impact globally.
Support With Your Application
For proposal drafting, refining and review, contact us — we are available to support you throughout the application process.
