AAAS Award for Scientific Freedom and Responsibility
This award recognizes individuals or organizations who have advanced scientific freedom, responsibility, and human rights, especially under difficult circumstances.
Funder: American Association for the Advancement of Science
Due Dates: June 30, 2026 (Nomination deadline)
Funding Amounts: $5,000 cash prize, commemorative plaque, complimentary registration, and travel/hotel reimbursement for the AAAS Annual Meeting
Summary: Honors individuals or organizations advancing scientific freedom, responsibility, and human rights under challenging circumstances.
Key Information: Self-nominations accepted; open to all nationalities and organizations.
Description
The AAAS Award for Scientific Freedom and Responsibility recognizes individuals or organizations whose exemplary actions have advanced scientific freedom and responsibility, especially under challenging circumstances. This includes defending human rights, upholding scientific integrity, protecting public welfare, and promoting justice and accountability through science. The award celebrates those who have demonstrated courage and integrity to ensure trustworthy, responsible science and the right of all to benefit from scientific progress. Established in 1980, the award is overseen by a multidisciplinary selection committee and approved by the AAAS Board of Directors.
