Deadline: April 8, 2026
The Nature Awards: Inspiring Women in Science 2026 are now open for applications. This prestigious global award celebrates outstanding women researchers and impactful initiatives that encourage girls and young women to engage with science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
If you are advancing scientific discovery or leading an initiative that supports women in STEM, the Nature Awards: Inspiring Women in Science 2026 offer international recognition, substantial funding, and global visibility.
About the Nature Awards: Inspiring Women in Science 2026
The award recognises excellence across two key areas:
- Scientific research achievements by early-career women researchers
- Outreach initiatives that promote girls’ and women’s participation and retention in STEM
The programme is designed to highlight role models, strengthen inclusion in science, and support long-term impact within the global research community.
Award Categories
There are two categories under the Nature Awards: Inspiring Women in Science 2026:
1. Scientific Achievement Award
This category recognises outstanding early-career women researchers who have:
- Made significant contributions to scientific discovery
- Demonstrated leadership potential in independent research
- Actively supported or inspired the next generation of women scientists
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Self-identify as a woman (inclusive of trans women and gender-diverse individuals)
- Hold a PhD or equivalent medical doctorate
- Have completed their PhD within the last 10 years (extensions permitted for career breaks such as maternity leave)
- Be in a non-tenured research position at the time of application
2. Science Outreach Award
This category recognises initiatives that:
- Encourage girls and young women to engage with STEM
- Improve the retention of women in STEM careers
Applications may be submitted by:
- Individuals
- Teams
- Organisations
Applicants of any gender may apply in this category, provided the initiative supports girls or women in science.
Prize and Benefits
Winners and finalists of the Nature Awards: Inspiring Women in Science 2026 receive substantial recognition and support.
Winners Receive:
- US$50,000 cash prize
- Invitation to the awards ceremony in London or New York (travel and accommodation fully covered)
- Global coverage on Nature’s platforms
- Mentoring opportunities through The Estée Lauder Companies
Runners-Up Receive:
- US$5,000 cash prize
- Invitation to the awards ceremony (travel and accommodation covered)
Shortlisted Applicants Receive:
- Featured profile on the Nature Awards website
- Access to an exclusive coaching and networking community
Application Process
- Applications must be submitted online.
- All entries will be reviewed by an expert judging panel.
- Evaluation criteria include scientific impact, innovation, outreach effectiveness, leadership potential, and measurable outcomes.
Applicants are encouraged to provide strong evidence of impact, measurable results, and future vision.
Timeline
- Applications Open: 28 January 2026
- Application Deadline: 8 April 2026 (11:59 PM UTC)
- Assessment Period: April – August 2026
- Notification of Successful Applicants: September 2026
- Winners Announced: October 2026
Early submission is strongly advised to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Why Apply?
The Nature Awards: Inspiring Women in Science 2026 provide:
- International visibility
- Career-advancing recognition
- Financial support to scale impact
- Access to a global network of scientific leaders
For early-career researchers and outreach leaders working to bridge the gender gap in STEM, this award represents a powerful opportunity to amplify impact and accelerate progress.
Need Support With Your Application?
If you would like professional support with proposal drafting, refining, or review, contact us for expert assistance to strengthen your submission.
Application Links
Be sure to review all eligibility requirements carefully before submitting your application.
