Honoring the Architects of Discovery: Call for Nominations for the UNESCO-Russia Mendeleev International Prize
The fundamental sciences—chemistry, physics, mathematics, and biology—are the silent engines driving global innovation and sustainable development. To celebrate the visionaries behind these breakthroughs, UNESCO has officially opened nominations for the fourth edition of the UNESCO-Russia Mendeleev International Prize in the Basic Sciences
The Prize: Recognition on a Global Stage
This prestigious award recognizes individuals whose work has had a significant transformational impact at a regional or global level. Each year, two extraordinary scientists are selected for their contributions to the development, dissemination, and international cooperation of the basic sciences.
Each prizewinner is honored with:
- A financial award of USD 250,000
- A gold medal
- A formal diploma
Diversity in Science
In line with UNESCO’s commitment to gender equality in the scientific community, women scientists are strongly encouraged to apply. The prize seeks to highlight diverse voices that are pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the lab and in the field.
Who Can Nominate?
To ensure the highest caliber of candidates, self-nominations are not accepted. UNESCO invites the following entities to propose individual candidates:
- Member States (in consultation with their National Commissions).
- Non-governmental organizations maintaining official ties with UNESCO.
- UNESCO Chairs and Category 2 Centres.
- International scientific unions and Universities.
Submission Details & Deadlines
All nominations must be submitted in English or French via the official online template.
Submission Portal: Available on the official Nomination and selection procedure webpage.
Deadline for Submission: 15 March 2026
Contact the Secretariat
For more information or specific clarifications regarding the 2026 edition, please visit the Prize’s official webpage or reach out to the Secretariat:
Dr. Christine Iskandar Prize Secretariat
Phone: +33 (0)1 45 68 10 61
Email: mendeleevprize@unesco.org
Help us honor the scientists who are building the foundation for our future. Share this call within your network and ensure that excellence in the basic sciences receives the recognition it deserves.