Deadline: 03-Apr-2026
The National Academies Eric and Wendy Schmidt Awards support individuals engaged in science communication, science journalism, or research who demonstrate the ability to produce high-quality, engaging science content. A total of 24 awards are available, with top prizes of $40,000 and additional awards of $20,000, aiming to strengthen the science communication ecosystem and inspire public understanding of scientific issues.
Overview of the Awards
The Eric and Wendy Schmidt Awards aim to encourage excellence in science communication by recognizing individuals who make complex scientific, engineering, or medical topics accessible and engaging for the general public. The program fosters a strong community of communicators and journalists, providing both recognition and opportunities for professional development.
Awardees receive training and mentorship through partnerships with leading journalistic institutions, enhancing the broader ecosystem of science communication and encouraging continued growth in the field.
Award Categories and Funding
- Total Awards: 24
- 8 Top Awards: $40,000 each
- 16 Additional Awards: $20,000 each
- Total Funding: $640,000
- Recognizes contributions in science communication, journalism, and public engagement with scientific research.
Who is Eligible?
- Individuals aged 13 and above actively engaged in:
- Science communication
- Science journalism
- Scientific research with a focus on public engagement
- Applicants must demonstrate:
- Motivation, passion, and a clear trajectory in science communication or journalism
- Ability to develop high-quality and engaging content for public audiences
- Not eligible:
- Previous award winners
- Employees of the organizing bodies or their immediate family members
- Submissions must be in English or include English translations.
Focus Areas
The program prioritizes work that:
- Demystifies complex scientific issues for the general public
- Inspires curiosity about science, engineering, medicine, and planetary well-being
- Supports high-quality reporting or communication that informs, educates, and engages diverse audiences
How to Apply
- Prepare Submission
- Showcase examples of science communication or journalism work
- Demonstrate engagement, creativity, and impact on audiences
- Meet Eligibility Criteria
- Ensure age, professional involvement, and prior award restrictions are met
- Submit Application
- Include supporting materials in English or provide translations
- Highlight motivation, professional trajectory, and potential for future contributions
- Professional Development
- Awardees gain access to training, mentorship, and networking with leading institutions
Why This Award Matters
- Recognizes and encourages excellence in science communication
- Strengthens the community of science communicators and journalists
- Promotes public understanding of complex scientific issues
- Supports individuals in building professional expertise and impact in science communication
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting work not focused on science communication or journalism
- Ignoring the age or prior winner eligibility criteria
- Providing materials in languages without English translations
- Failing to clearly demonstrate motivation, trajectory, or engagement impact
- Submitting incomplete or unorganized application materials
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How many awards are available?
24 awards in total: 8 top awards of $40,000 and 16 additional awards of $20,000.
2. Who can apply?
Individuals aged 13 and above engaged in science communication, journalism, or research with public engagement.
3. Are previous winners eligible?
No, previous winners and employees or immediate family members of the organizing bodies are not eligible.
4. In what language should submissions be?
Submissions must be in English or include an English translation.
5. What types of work are recognized?
Work that communicates complex science, engineering, or medical topics effectively to public audiences.
6. Do awardees receive additional support?
Yes, awardees gain access to training, mentorship, and professional development opportunities.
7. How is eligibility assessed?
Based on age, engagement in science communication or journalism, motivation, and potential for high-quality contributions.
Conclusion
The Eric and Wendy Schmidt Awards recognize and empower individuals driving high-quality, impactful science communication and journalism. By supporting both recognition and professional development, the program strengthens the science communication ecosystem, inspires curiosity, and ensures complex scientific topics are accessible and engaging for the public.
For more information, visit National Academy of Sciences.