Deadline: 30-Jun-2026
The TWAS–Fayzah M. Al-Kharafi Award is an international recognition established to honour exceptional women scientists working in Agricultural Sciences and Biology. It is part of TWAS’s mission to strengthen scientific capacity in developing regions by highlighting impactful research and supporting women researchers. The award celebrates both scientific excellence and contributions to global knowledge in agriculture and life sciences.
Purpose and Objectives
The main objective of the award is to recognize outstanding scientific contributions made by women researchers in Scientifically and Technologically Lagging countries. It aims to promote excellence in Agricultural Sciences and Biology, encourage high-impact research, and strengthen scientific development in under-resourced regions. The award also supports visibility and career advancement for women in science.
Key Focus Areas
The 2026 edition focuses on Agricultural Sciences and Biology as the core fields of recognition. The award prioritizes impactful research that advances agricultural development, biological understanding, and scientific innovation. It emphasizes contributions that have measurable scientific impact and relevance to development challenges in lagging scientific regions.
Award Value
The award includes a cash prize of USD 4,000, generously provided by Professor Fayzah M. Al-Kharafi. It is administered by TWAS as part of its broader effort to promote scientific excellence and capacity building in developing countries.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligible nominees must be female scientists who are nationals of Scientifically and Technologically Lagging countries. Candidates must have lived and worked in their home country for at least two years immediately prior to nomination. TWAS Fellows and previous recipients of other TWAS-named awards are not eligible. Self-nominations are not permitted.
Eligible Nomination Sources
Nominations may be submitted by TWAS members, science academies, national research councils, universities, and recognized scientific institutions worldwide. All nominations must come from authorized institutions, and individuals cannot nominate themselves. This ensures an objective and merit-based selection process.
Nomination Documentation Requirements
The nomination process requires comprehensive and structured documentation. This includes details of both the nominee and nominator, formal authorization for data processing, and a well-written citation summarizing scientific achievements. Supporting statements must clearly describe research contributions, their significance, and measurable impact, avoiding vague or general descriptions.
Academic and Research Profile Requirements
Nominations must include a detailed academic profile of the nominee, including PhD details, institutional affiliations, honors, and awards. A list of ten key publications and a complete publication record must be provided. Citation metrics, including the h-index from Google Scholar, are required to assess research impact. Information on international experience and career mobility is also required.
Research Plan Requirement
A forward-looking research plan is required as part of the nomination. This plan should outline future scientific goals, research direction, and expected contributions to Agricultural Sciences and Biology. It helps assess the nominee’s potential for continued impact and leadership in their field.
Evaluation Criteria
Selection is based on scientific excellence, research impact, and contribution to Agricultural Sciences and Biology. The evaluation also considers publication quality, citation metrics, innovation, and relevance of research to development challenges. Future potential and leadership in scientific advancement are also important factors.
Importance of the Award
The award strengthens global recognition of women scientists in Scientifically and Technologically Lagging countries. It promotes gender equity in science and encourages high-quality research in Agricultural Sciences and Biology. It also supports scientific leadership and helps build stronger research ecosystems in developing regions.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Nominations often fail due to incomplete documentation or vague descriptions of scientific contributions. Missing publication records, lack of citation data, or failure to include a research plan can weaken applications. Self-nominations or nominations of ineligible candidates, such as TWAS Fellows or previous award recipients, are not permitted.
Tips for a Strong Nomination
Strong nominations clearly demonstrate measurable scientific impact and provide detailed evidence of research achievements. They should include well-documented publications, strong citation metrics, and a clear explanation of research significance. A compelling forward-looking research plan and strong institutional endorsements improve competitiveness.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the TWAS–Fayzah M. Al-Kharafi Award?
It is an international award recognizing outstanding women scientists in Agricultural Sciences and Biology from Scientifically and Technologically Lagging countries. - Who is eligible for nomination?
Female scientists from eligible countries who have lived and worked in their home country for at least two years. - What is the award amount?
The award provides a cash prize of USD 4,000. - Who can submit nominations?
TWAS members, science academies, universities, research councils, and scientific institutions. - Can candidates nominate themselves?
No, self-nominations are not allowed. - What documents are required?
Academic profile, publication list, citation metrics, research plan, supporting statements, and authorization documents. - What fields are covered?
Agricultural Sciences and Biology.
Conclusion
The TWAS–Fayzah M. Al-Kharafi Award recognizes and promotes outstanding women scientists working in Agricultural Sciences and Biology in Scientifically and Technologically Lagging countries. It supports scientific excellence, leadership, and global visibility while encouraging continued research impact. By combining recognition with rigorous evaluation, the award strengthens the role of women in advancing science and development worldwide.
For more information, visit TWAS.
