Deadline: 30-Jun-2026
The TWAS–Mohammad A. Hamdan Award is a biennial international award recognizing outstanding mathematical research by scientists living and working in Africa or the Arab region. It honors excellence in pure mathematics, applied mathematics, probability, and statistics.
The award includes a USD 5,000 prize and a certificate, and it aims to strengthen scientific capacity and recognize high-impact research in developing regions.
Overview of the Award
The TWAS–Mohammad A. Hamdan Award was established in 2020 in memory of Professor Mohammad A. Hamdan, a TWAS Vice-President for the Arab Region. It is designed to:
- Recognize excellence in mathematical sciences
- Support scientists in Africa and the Arab region
- Promote research capacity in developing countries
- Encourage high-quality theoretical and applied mathematics research
The award is presented every two years.
Scientific Scope
The award covers core areas of mathematical sciences, including:
- Pure mathematics
- Applied mathematics
- Probability theory
- Statistics
It recognizes both theoretical contributions and applied mathematical work with scientific impact.
Award Value
Selected recipients receive:
- USD 5,000 cash prize
- Official certificate of recognition
- International scientific recognition through TWAS
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must:
- Be nationals of an African or Arab country
- Be living and working in Africa or the Arab region
- Have resided in the region for at least two consecutive years prior to nomination
Additional rules:
- TWAS Fellows are not eligible
- Previous recipients of TWAS-named awards cannot receive another TWAS-named award
- Self-nominations are not allowed
- Jury members cannot submit nominations
Selection Criteria
Selection is based strictly on:
- Scientific merit
- Research originality and impact
- Contribution to mathematical sciences
- Quality of publications and academic output
Evaluation Process
The selection process includes:
- Initial pre-screening by TWAS
- Evaluation by an expert jury
- Final selection based on scientific excellence
Nomination Requirements (2026 Cycle)
Applicants must submit:
- Detailed CV (curriculum vitae)
- Publication record
- Supporting nomination statements
- Forward-looking research project
- Authorization for personal data processing
All submissions must be completed through the official online nomination platform.
Programme Objectives
The award aims to:
- Recognize top mathematical scientists in developing regions
- Strengthen research capacity in Africa and the Arab world
- Promote international visibility of regional scientists
- Encourage excellence in mathematical research
- Support scientific development in emerging economies
Why This Award Matters
Mathematics plays a critical role in:
- Scientific innovation
- Data analysis and modelling
- Engineering and technology development
- Economic and social planning
This award supports:
- Recognition of high-impact researchers in underrepresented regions
- Academic visibility for African and Arab mathematicians
- Development of regional scientific excellence
- Encouragement of advanced mathematical research
Conclusion
The TWAS–Mohammad A. Hamdan Award is a prestigious biennial recognition for outstanding mathematicians in Africa and the Arab region. With a focus on scientific excellence and regional capacity-building, the award highlights impactful contributions in mathematics while strengthening the global visibility of researchers from developing countries.
For more information, visit TWAS.