Call for Applications: Springer Nature Inspiring Women in Science Awards 2026

Application Deadline: 08 April 2026

About the Awards

Applications are currently being accepted for the Springer Nature Inspiring Women in Science Awards 2026. Those interested are invited to learn more about this opportunity and submit an application through the official portal.

The Inspiring Women in Science Awards were established to celebrate and support the scientific achievements of women, as well as the efforts of individuals and organizations worldwide that encourage girls and young women to engage with STEM subjects and remain in STEM careers.

Award Benefits

• Two winners will receive US$50,000 each.
• Two runners-up will receive US$5,000 each.
• An invitation to an awards ceremony in London or New York, with accommodation and travel expenses fully covered.
• Featured coverage on nature.com.
• Mentoring opportunities provided through The Estée Lauder Companies.

Award Categories and Requirements

Category 1: Initiatives Encouraging or Supporting Women in STEM

Entries are sought that have either:

• Encouraged girls or young women to engage with and pursue studies in the natural sciences, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine (STEM); or
• Improved the retention of women in STEM careers, particularly by providing tools and support for career progression within a STEM discipline.

Applications may be submitted by:

• Organizations
• Departments
• Individuals (of any gender)
• Project teams

A single spokesperson must be nominated. This individual will serve as the primary point of contact and will represent the winning entry at the awards ceremony.

Successful entries will demonstrate exceptional vision, insight, and/or imagination. Evidence must be provided showing that the initiative encourages, supports, or promotes the interests of girls and/or women in STEM. Applications incorporating interdisciplinary components are also welcomed.

Category 2: Scientific Achievement

Applications are invited from individuals who have:

• Made an exceptional and demonstrable contribution to scientific discovery.
• Potentially overcome significant personal or professional challenges in their careers.
• Shown the potential to develop and lead an independent research group.
• Made efforts to inspire the next generation of scientists through outreach activities or to support the retention of women in scientific careers.

Eligibility Requirements for Scientific Achievement Category:

• Applicants must self-identify as women. An inclusive definition of ‘woman’ and ‘women’ is applied, and trans women, genderqueer, and non-binary people are welcomed.
• A PhD degree, medical degree (MD), or another type of doctorate by dissertation must be held.
• The doctoral degree must have been obtained within the last 10 years.
• The 10-year window will be extended to account for any maternity leave(s) or other relevant leaves of absence. Continuous 10-year eligibility is not required, but details of any absences must be specified during the application process.
• Applicants must hold a non-tenured position at the time of application.
• Those working in any STEM field are eligible. Interdisciplinary research components are welcomed.

Application Process

• All applications must be submitted through the online application form.
• Entries must be complete and submitted no later than 11:59 pm UTC 00:00 on 8 April 2026.
• Late or incomplete submissions will not be considered.

To apply click here