Deadline: February 22, 2025
The Royal Society Athena Prize 2026 is a prestigious international award that recognises outstanding teams who have made a significant and demonstrable impact in advancing diversity and inclusion in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) within academic and research communities.
Awarded biennially by the Royal Society, one of the world’s oldest and most respected scientific institutions, the prize celebrates collective leadership, innovative practices, and sustained commitment to inclusive excellence in science.
The Royal Society Athena Prize 2026 highlights initiatives that go beyond policy statements to deliver measurable cultural and structural change that benefits underrepresented groups in STEM.
About the Royal Society Athena Prize
The Athena Prize was established to acknowledge the critical role that teams, departments, faculties, and networks play in transforming research environments. Rather than focusing on individual achievement, the prize recognises collaborative efforts that have successfully embedded equality, diversity, and inclusion into their structures, practices, and culture.
The award reflects the Royal Society’s long-standing commitment to fostering an inclusive scientific community where talent can thrive regardless of background.
Prize Value and Benefits
The winning team of the Royal Society Athena Prize 2026 will receive:
- £5,000 cash prize
- An official Royal Society medal
- Prestigious international recognition from the Royal Society
- Enhanced visibility for the team’s diversity and inclusion initiatives
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
The Royal Society Athena Prize 2026 is open to:
- Teams based within UK academic or research communities
- Clearly defined teams, with all members named in the application
- Departments, faculties, centres, or structured networks (not necessarily every member of a broader network)
Important Eligibility Notes
- Previous Athena Prize winners cannot reapply as the same team
- Teams that were previously unsuccessful are eligible to reapply
- Applications must clearly demonstrate impact, leadership, and sustainability of diversity and inclusion initiatives
What the Judges Are Looking For
Applications for the Royal Society Athena Prize 2026 should clearly demonstrate:
- Strong leadership and teamwork in advancing diversity and inclusion
- Evidence-based outcomes and measurable impact
- Innovative and scalable approaches that can inspire wider adoption
- Long-term commitment to inclusive culture within STEM environments
Key Dates
- Applications Open: Early December 2025
- Application Deadline: 22 February 2026
- Award Announcement: Later in 2026
Applicants are encouraged to prepare submissions early to ensure all requirements are met.
How to Apply
Applications for the Royal Society Athena Prize 2026 are submitted through the Royal Society’s official awards and nominations system. Teams may self-nominate, provided they meet all eligibility and documentation requirements.
Why Apply for the Royal Society Athena Prize 2026?
- Gain recognition from a globally respected scientific institution
- Showcase your team’s leadership in diversity and inclusion
- Strengthen institutional credibility and reputation
- Inspire broader cultural change across STEM disciplines
Get Support With Your Application
Need help preparing a strong submission? Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review to maximise the clarity, impact, and competitiveness of your application.
