Deadline: 20-Jan-2026
The Mustafa Science and Technology Foundation Young Scientist Medal 2026 recognises outstanding young researchers from Islamic countries for excellence, innovation, and scientific impact. Four laureates will each receive a medal, certificate, and a USD 10,000 cash award in key scientific fields, with nominations accepted only through recognised scientific institutions and senior scientists.
Overview
The Mustafa Science and Technology Foundation will award four Young Scientist Medals in 2026 to honour exceptional scientific talent among early-career researchers from Islamic countries.
The award is designed to recognise scientific excellence at a critical stage of a researcher’s career, while also encouraging continued innovation, leadership, and global scientific contribution.
By spotlighting emerging scientists, the programme strengthens research ecosystems and promotes scientific advancement across the Islamic world.
What Is the Mustafa Young Scientist Medal?
The Young Scientist Medal is a prestigious international science award established by the Mustafa Science and Technology Foundation.
It acknowledges young researchers who have demonstrated:
Scientific excellence and originality
Innovative research contributions
Measurable impact within their field
Strong potential for future leadership in science and technology
The award combines recognition with financial support to help laureates continue their research trajectories.
Award Categories and Scientific Fields
The medals are awarded across key scientific disciplines, including:
Life and Medical Science and Technology
Research advancing healthcare, medicine, biotechnology, and life sciences.
Basic and Engineering Sciences
Fundamental scientific research and engineering innovations with practical or theoretical impact.
Computer Science
Contributions in computing, data science, artificial intelligence, and related technologies.
These categories reflect the Foundation’s focus on disciplines that drive scientific progress and societal development.
Award Benefits and Recognition
Each selected laureate receives:
A Young Scientist Medal
An official certificate of recognition
A cash award of USD 10,000
The award celebrates past achievements while also serving as a catalyst for continued research and innovation.
Who Is Eligible?
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for nomination, candidates must:
Be young scientists from Islamic countries
Be under 40 years of age by the end of 2026
Be born in 1987 or later
Demonstrate excellence and impact in one of the eligible scientific fields
Eligibility is not restricted by religion, reflecting the inclusive and merit-based principles of the award.
Who Can Nominate?
Nominations must be submitted by recognised scientific authorities.
Eligible Nominators
Renowned scientists
Universities and higher education institutions
Research centres and laboratories
Academies of sciences
Science and technology associations
Centres of excellence
Science and technology parks
Self-nominations are not permitted, ensuring that all candidates are endorsed through peer recognition and institutional credibility.
How the Nomination Process Works
Step-by-Step Nomination Process
Identification of an eligible young scientist
Submission of nomination by an authorised nominator
Evaluation of scientific excellence, innovation, and impact
Selection of four laureates across eligible fields
Announcement and award of medals in 2026
The process prioritises merit, peer recognition, and long-term scientific potential.
Why This Award Matters
The Young Scientist Medal plays a strategic role in advancing science and technology by:
Encouraging early-career scientific leadership
Recognising innovation at a formative career stage
Strengthening research capacity in Islamic countries
Promoting global scientific collaboration and visibility
Supporting continued excellence through financial recognition
By investing in young talent, the Foundation contributes to sustainable scientific development.
Tips for Strong Nominations
Highlight the nominee’s most impactful research contributions
Demonstrate originality, innovation, and scientific leadership
Show clear evidence of national or international impact
Emphasise future research potential, not only past achievements
Ensure nomination materials are clear, concise, and well-documented
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Nominating candidates who exceed the age limit
Submitting incomplete or weak supporting documentation
Focusing only on quantity of publications instead of impact
Missing clear evidence of innovation or leadership
Attempting self-nomination, which is not allowed
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How many Young Scientist Medals are awarded in 2026?
Four medals will be awarded in the 2026 cycle.
2. What is the cash award for each laureate?
Each laureate receives USD 10,000, along with a medal and certificate.
3. Who is eligible to be nominated?
Young scientists from Islamic countries who are under 40 years old by the end of 2026.
4. Does the nominee have to belong to a specific religion?
No. Eligibility is based on nationality and scientific merit, not religion.
5. Can researchers nominate themselves?
No. Self-nominations are not permitted.
6. Which scientific fields are covered?
Life and medical sciences, basic and engineering sciences, and computer science.
7. What is the main purpose of the award?
To recognise excellence, support innovation, and empower the next generation of scientific leaders.
Conclusion
The Mustafa Young Scientist Medal 2026 is a prestigious opportunity to recognise and support exceptional young researchers shaping the future of science and technology. By combining international recognition with financial support, the award empowers emerging scientific leaders to continue delivering impactful research and contributing to regional and global scientific progress.
For more information, visit MSTF.