The UNESCO Al Fozan Prize is a prestigious international award that recognizes young scientists in STEM for their significant achievements and contributions to research, education, and international cooperation. This fully funded prize awards each of the five laureates USD 50,000, along with a medal and diploma, and aims to boost STEM research and education to tackle challenges addressed by the Sustainable Development Goals.
UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, partners with the Al Fozan Group to offer this biennial prize. The prize reflects UNESCO’s commitment to gender equality by encouraging more women to pursue careers in STEM fields. It is presented to laureates from five regions: Africa, Arab States, Asia and the Pacific, Europe and North America, and Latin America and the Caribbean.
UNESCO Al Fozan Prize Benefits
- USD 50,000 award
- Medal and diploma
- International recognition
- Opportunity to contribute to STEM research and education
UNESCO Al Fozan Prize Eligibility Criteria
- Candidates must be under 40 years old at the time of the application deadline.
- Candidates must have gained recognition for significant achievements or contributions in one or more of the following areas: Research in STEM, including emerging technologies; STEM education, dissemination of research findings, creativity, and innovation; International or regional cooperation in STEM.
- Nominations of young women scientists are strongly encouraged to promote gender balance in STEM fields.
Who Can Nominate Candidates?
- Governments of UNESCO Member States
- National Commissions for UNESCO
- UNESCO-affiliated non-governmental organizations
- UNESCO Chairs
- UNESCO Category 2 Institutes and Centres
- International scientific unions
- Universities through authorized leadership representatives such as department heads, deans, or senior administrators
Required Nomination Documents
- A written recommendation
- Description of the candidate’s achievements and qualifications
- Summary of research outputs and publications
- Explanation of the candidate’s contribution to the objectives of the Prize
How to Apply for UNESCO Al Fozan Prize?
- Register online: Create a candidate account, verify your email, and complete user profile information.
- Complete the dossier: Provide detailed information about your background, achievements and contributions in line with the submission criteria, and upload all necessary documents including a description of your background and achievements, a summary of your work, publications, and other significant contributions, and a statement detailing your contribution to the objectives of the Prize.
- Ensure your nomination is submitted by an eligible nominator prior to submitting the application dossier.
- All applications must be completed in full in English or French.
- Submit your online application and completed nomination by 30 November 2026 (midnight, UTC+1).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the UNESCO Al Fozan Prize. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the UNESCO Al Fozan Prize?
The UNESCO Al Fozan International Prize for the Promotion of Young Scientists in STEM is a biennial award that recognizes young scientists for their achievements in STEM research, education, and international cooperation. It awards each of five laureates USD 50,000, a medal, and a diploma.
Who is eligible for the UNESCO Al Fozan Prize?
Candidates must be under 40 years old at the deadline and have significant achievements in STEM research, education, or international cooperation. Nominations of young women scientists are strongly encouraged.
What is the deadline for the UNESCO Al Fozan Prize?
The deadline for applications and nominations is 30 November 2026 at midnight UTC+1.
How do I apply for the UNESCO Al Fozan Prize?
You must register online, complete your application dossier with details of your background and achievements, and ensure an eligible nominator submits a nomination. Applications must be in English or French.
Can I nominate myself for the UNESCO Al Fozan Prize?
No, self-nominations are not considered. You must be nominated by an eligible entity such as a UNESCO Member State, NGO, UNESCO Chair, or university.
What are the benefits of the UNESCO Al Fozan Prize?
Each laureate receives USD 50,000, a medal, and a diploma. The prize also provides international recognition and supports the laureate’s work in STEM.
How many laureates are selected for the UNESCO Al Fozan Prize?
Five laureates are selected, one from each of the following regions: Africa, Arab States, Asia and the Pacific, Europe and North America, and Latin America and the Caribbean.
What is the nomination process for the UNESCO Al Fozan Prize?
Nominations can be submitted by eligible entities via a nomination letter upload or direct online nomination. The nomination must include a written recommendation describing the candidate’s background and achievements.
What documents are required for the UNESCO Al Fozan Prize application?
You need to upload a description of your background and achievements, a summary of your work and publications, and a statement detailing your contribution to the Prize’s objectives.
Who can nominate a candidate for the UNESCO Al Fozan Prize?
Eligible nominators include governments of UNESCO Member States, NGOs with official partnerships, UNESCO Chairs, Category 2 Institutes, international scientific unions, and universities (e.g., Head of Department, Dean).
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