Deadline: March 31, 2026
The 2026 UNESCO-Equatorial Guinea International Prize for Research in the Life Sciences recognises individuals, groups, and organisations that have made exceptional contributions to improving the quality of human life through scientific research in the life sciences. This global award celebrates transformative discoveries that address the most pressing challenges in medicine, agriculture, biology, environmental sciences, and technological innovation.
About the Prize
The UNESCO-Equatorial Guinea International Prize for Research in the Life Sciences was established to honour outstanding scientific achievements that advance human well-being and sustainable development. It highlights UNESCO’s commitment to fostering scientific innovation and promoting collaboration among researchers worldwide.
Each year, the prize acknowledges pioneering efforts that help to:
- Improve human health and living conditions
- Enhance food security and agricultural systems
- Protect ecosystems and biodiversity
- Contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Prize Details
- Total Award Value: USD 300,000
- Number of Laureates: Up to three recipients share the award equally
- Additional Honours: Each laureate receives a certificate and the “Integración Tribal” statuette, a symbolic sculpture by Equatorial Guinean artist Leandro Mbomio
The financial award supports continued research and innovation in the life sciences, empowering laureates to expand the impact of their scientific contributions.
Eligibility Criteria
The prize is open to:
- Individual scientists with proven excellence in life sciences research
- Groups of researchers who have collaboratively advanced human welfare through scientific innovation
- Institutions or organisations (including NGOs) that have significantly contributed to improving life quality through research
Nominees must demonstrate clear evidence of how their work has advanced scientific understanding and created real-world benefits for humanity.
Nomination Process
Self-nominations are not accepted. Nominations must be submitted through one of the following channels:
- UNESCO Member States, via their National Commissions, or
- Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in official partnership with UNESCO and active in relevant fields
Each Member State or eligible NGO may submit up to five nominations per year.
How to Apply
Nominations are submitted online via UNESCO’s official platform. The process includes the following steps:
- Registration: Candidates must be endorsed by a National Commission or eligible NGO before gaining access to the online form.
- Submission: The nomination form (available in English or French) must include:
- Full details of the nominee(s)
- Summary of their research and its relevance to the prize objectives
- Supporting documentation, including publications and evidence of impact
Only nominations officially endorsed and submitted through the authorised channels will be considered by the UNESCO Secretariat.
Application Deadline
The deadline for submission is 31 March 2026 (midnight, UTC +1). Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted, so early preparation and coordination with endorsing bodies are strongly encouraged.
Significance of the Prize
The UNESCO-Equatorial Guinea International Prize for Research in the Life Sciences plays a vital role in encouraging scientific excellence and fostering innovation that benefits global society. By rewarding remarkable life-sciences research, it aligns with UNESCO’s mission to promote sustainable development and build a healthier, more equitable world.
This prize not only acknowledges individual brilliance but also strengthens the collective commitment to science as a tool for progress and human dignity.
Conclusion
The 2026 UNESCO-Equatorial Guinea International Prize for Research in the Life Sciences stands as one of the most prestigious global recognitions in the field of life sciences. It offers a powerful platform for scientists and research institutions whose work transforms lives and drives sustainable growth.
If you or your organisation are working on life-changing scientific research, now is the time to prepare your nomination.
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
