The Science & SciLifeLab Prize 2025 – Where Emerging Scientists Get Their Spotlight

In the ever-evolving world of scientific discovery, early-career researchers often hold the key to the next big breakthrough. If you’ve recently completed a PhD in the life sciences, your moment to shine on a global stage has arrived. The Science & SciLifeLab Prize for Young Scientists 2025 is now accepting applications — and it could be your gateway to international recognition, funding, and publication in one of the world’s most prestigious scientific journals.

A Platform for Visionary Thinkers

This prize, created by Science magazine in collaboration with SciLifeLab, is much more than a research award. It’s a celebration of curiosity, resilience, and the passion that drives young scientists to unravel the mysteries of life.

Each year, the prize honours four outstanding researchers whose doctoral work exemplifies creativity, technical excellence, and potential for real-world impact. If your work is changing how we understand genes, ecosystems, cells, or disease, this is the opportunity you’ve been waiting for.

Are You Eligible?

To be eligible, you must:

• Have earned your PhD between January 1, 2023, and December 31, 2024.
• Have completed your dissertation in a field related to one of these areas:
  • Cell and Molecular Biology
  • Genomics, Proteomics, and Systems Biology
  • Ecology and Environmental Science
  • Molecular Medicine
• Be prepared to write a compelling essay summarising your research for a general scientific audience.

What You Can Win

This isn’t just another certificate — it’s a chance to be celebrated globally.

• The Grand Prize Winner will receive $30,000 USD, and their essay will be published in Science.
• Three Category Winners will each receive $10,000 USD, and their work will be featured online by Science.
• All winners will be invited to Stockholm, Sweden, in December 2025, where they’ll receive their awards at an exclusive ceremony and participate in media and networking events.

How to Apply

Here’s a breakdown of the materials you’ll need to prepare:

• A completed online entry form
• A 1,000-word essay describing the core findings of your PhD
• One figure or table + up to 15 citations
• A brief abstract of your thesis (max 4 pages, double-spaced)
• A strong reference letter from your advisor or committee member
• A detailed CV with academic and research highlights

Application Deadline: July 15, 2025

After submission, the review process will take place in August and September. Final decisions will be announced between October and November 2025, with the winners officially awarded in December 2025.

Science Needs You

Whether you discovered a novel cancer therapy, decoded a climate resilience mechanism in plants, or built a new bioinformatics tool, your ideas can change the world. The Science & SciLifeLab Prize ensures that your voice is heard, your work is valued, and your future as a scientist is supported.

Start your journey to global recognition today. Apply now — and let your science speak for itself.