Nominations for the ninth edition of the UNESCO-Equatorial Guinea International Prize for Research in the Life Sciences are now open for 2026. The Prize is awarded annually to outstanding scientists, research teams, institutions, and NGOs whose transformative work in fields such as medicine, biology, agriculture, environmental sciences, and new technologies measurably improves quality of life.

Recognized contributions include life-saving medical innovations, sustainable agricultural advancements, environmental research addressing climate change, and technologies delivering practical solutions to global challenges.

The UNESCO–Equatorial Guinea International Prize for Research in the Life Sciences recognizes individuals, institutions, NGOs, and research teams whose work measurably improves human life through life sciences research.

Established by UNESCO in 2008, the Prize advances scientific knowledge and capacity-building for sustainable development, directly supporting the 2030 Agenda, particularly SDGs 1, 2, 5, 8, and 10 focused on a better quality of life for all.

Funded by the Republic of Equatorial Guinea, the Prize awards US$300,000, shared by up to three laureates, along with a certificate and the Integración Tribal statuette by artist Leandro Mbomio.

Details

• Application deadline: 31 March 2026 (midnight, UTC+1).
• Awarding organization: UNESCO 
• Funded by: The Republic of Equatorial Guinea
• Number of winners: 3
• Prize value: 300,000 USD

Other benefits: Certificate and “Integracion Tribal” statuette by Equatorial Guinean artist Leandro Mbomio.

Who can apply?

To be eligible for the prize, Individual(s) or Institutions should be confirmed by:

• Either Member Countries, through their National Commissions, or
• Non-governmental organizations in official association with UNESCO, active in a field related to the Prize.

*Each of the above authorities can endorse up to 5 candidates, no later than the yearly announced deadline. Self-nominations will not be taken into consideration.

How to Apply?

The application process can be completed in two ways:

1. Designating authorities can invite candidates whom they wish to endorse to apply.
2. Candidates must submit their application to a National Commission through the online process.

Apply Now

After registration, candidates must complete the online application form in English or French consisiting the following details and materials:

• Background Information
• Summary of the candidate’s contribution to the Prize’s objectives;
• Outline of the work/research;
• List of Publications.

Note: Please note that self-nominations shall not be considered, nor shall incomplete applications.

Selection Process

All applications received by the deadline are reviewed by the Secretariat and forwarded to the International Jury. The Jury evaluates eligible submissions and recommends winners, after which the Director-General makes the final selection. The Prize is formally presented at an official UNESCO ceremony.

For more information about the prize and its past winners, please visit the website of UNESCO.

OR, contact the Executive Secretariat of the UNESCO–Equatorial Guinea International Prize for Research in the Life Sciences through lifesciencesprize@unesco.org.

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