Deadline: 15-Mar-2026
The UNESCO-Russia Mendeleev International Prize in the Basic Sciences honors groundbreaking contributions to scientific research, innovation, and the promotion of basic sciences. Awarded annually, the prize recognizes individuals whose work drives socio-economic transformation and fosters international collaboration in basic sciences.
Overview
The UNESCO-Russia Mendeleev International Prize celebrates exceptional achievements in scientific research, innovation, and popularization of the basic sciences. It highlights the transformative impact of basic sciences on society, education, and global cooperation.
Purpose and Objectives
Key Goals
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Recognize outstanding research and innovation in basic sciences.
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Promote basic sciences education and public engagement.
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Encourage international and regional collaboration in scientific research.
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Contribute to socio-economic transformation at regional or global levels.
Focus Areas
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Basic Sciences Research: Groundbreaking discoveries and innovations.
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Education and Popularization: Initiatives that increase awareness, understanding, and accessibility of science.
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International Cooperation: Projects that strengthen scientific collaboration across borders.
Award Details
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Recipients: Two individuals annually.
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Prize: US $250,000, a gold medal, and a diploma for each winner.
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Recognition: Scientific excellence and contributions to the broader scientific community.
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Gender Equality: Encourages nominations of women scientists, aligning with UNESCO’s Global Priority on Gender Equality.
Who Is Eligible?
Eligible Candidates
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Individuals with breakthrough discoveries, outstanding innovations, or contributions to science popularization.
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Scientists whose work has the potential to drive socio-economic development.
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There are no age restrictions, emphasizing merit and impact.
Who Can Submit Nominations
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Governments of UNESCO Member States (in consultation with National Commissions).
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NGOs with official UNESCO partnerships.
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UNESCO Chairs and Category 2 Centres.
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International scientific unions and universities.
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Note: Self-nominations are not accepted.
Why This Prize Matters
The Mendeleev Prize:
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Highlights the critical role of basic sciences in socio-economic development.
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Promotes international collaboration and knowledge exchange.
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Encourages broader participation, including gender-inclusive recognition, in scientific innovation.
How to Apply / How It Works
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Nomination Submission: Eligible entities submit candidates with supporting documentation.
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Evaluation: Candidates are assessed based on scientific breakthroughs, innovations, and societal impact.
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Selection: Winners are chosen by an expert panel considering merit, originality, and contribution to science.
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Award Announcement: Winners receive monetary awards, medals, and diplomas in recognition of their achievements.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Attempting self-nomination.
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Submitting incomplete or unsupported nominations.
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Nominating candidates without clear evidence of scientific impact or socio-economic relevance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How many recipients are selected each year?
Two individual scientists are awarded annually.
2. What is the monetary value of the prize?
Each recipient receives US $250,000.
3. Are there age limits for nominees?
No, there are no age restrictions.
4. Can individuals nominate themselves?
No, self-nominations are not permitted.
5. Who can submit nominations?
Governments of Member States, UNESCO partners, Chairs, Category 2 Centres, international scientific unions, and universities.
6. What types of achievements are recognized?
Breakthrough scientific discoveries, innovations, and contributions to basic science popularization.
7. Does the prize encourage gender equality?
Yes, it aligns with UNESCO’s Global Priority on Gender Equality and encourages nominations of women scientists.
Conclusion
The UNESCO-Russia Mendeleev International Prize celebrates transformative contributions to the basic sciences, recognizing research, innovation, and science popularization with global socio-economic impact. By fostering international collaboration and promoting gender-inclusive recognition, the prize advances excellence and societal progress through scientific discovery.
For more information, visit UNESCO.