Scope of the Prize & Eligible Areas

The Prize recognizes five outstanding young scientists, one from each of UNESCO’s five geographical regions, for their significant contributions to scientific research, STEM education, and international scientific cooperation.

Young scientists under the age of 40 who have made internationally recognized contributions in at least one of the following areas are eligible for nomination:

• Research in STEM fields, including emerging technologies;
• STEM education, science communication, creativity, and innovation;
• Regional or international cooperation in STEM.

Nomination Procedure & Important Deadlines

Nomination dossiers must be prepared in English or French and submitted through qualified institutions; self-nominations are not accepted. In Türkiye, the nomination process is coordinated by the Turkish National Commission for UNESCO, and national submissions must be completed by 30 November 2026.

Researchers who wish to be officially nominated by METU are kindly requested to submit their application dossiers to the Research Coordination Office (pdo@metu.edu.tr) no later than 2 November 2026 (Monday), 5:00 p.m., to allow sufficient time for institutional evaluation.

* UNESCO particularly encourages the nomination of young women scientists to promote gender balance in STEM.

Official Links and Guidelines

• Official Prize Website: unescoalfozanprize.org
• UNESCO Nomination Process and Guidelines: unesco.org/en/prizes/al-fozan/nomination-process