Deadline: February 20, 2026
The Royal Society Darwin Medal 2026 is a prestigious award that recognises outstanding contributions to the understanding of evolution, biological diversity, and developmental, population, and organismal biology. This award celebrates exceptional scientific achievement and honours the legacy of Charles Darwin FRS.
About the Royal Society Darwin Medal 2026
The Royal Society Darwin Medal was established to recognise groundbreaking work in evolutionary biology and related fields. First awarded in 1890 to Alfred Russel Wallace FRS for his independent development of the theory of natural selection, the medal has since become one of the most distinguished awards in the scientific community.
Award recipients receive:
- A silver-gilt medal
- A cash prize of £2,000
The medal highlights significant scientific contributions that advance our understanding of biological systems, evolutionary processes, and diversity in life forms.
Key Dates and Deadlines
- Nominations Open: 1 December 2025
- Nomination Deadline: 20 February 2026
Eligibility Criteria
The Royal Society Darwin Medal 2026 is open to:
- Citizens of the UK, Commonwealth, or Republic of Ireland, or those who have been resident in one of these places for three or more years.
- Individuals at any career stage; there are no restrictions on professional experience.
- Teams or groups are also eligible for nomination.
Nominations are valid for up to three cycles, allowing repeated consideration if necessary.
Areas of Recognition
The award honours work of exceptional distinction in:
- Evolutionary biology
- Biological diversity
- Developmental, population, and organismal biology
How to Apply
Eligible candidates can submit their nomination through the Royal Society’s awards portal. This is a unique opportunity to have outstanding scientific achievements recognised on a global stage.
The Royal Society Darwin Medal 2026 provides an incredible platform for scientists to showcase their contributions to evolutionary biology and related disciplines. Don’t miss this chance to be recognised for your work that shapes our understanding of the natural world.
For guidance on proposal drafting, refining, and review, contact us to ensure your nomination stands out.
