ACM Doctoral Dissertation Award
Limited submission
ACM Doctoral Dissertation Award supports doctoral researchers in computer science and engineering through recognition and publication of outstanding dissertations to encourage superior research and writing.
Funder: University of British Columbia - Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies
Due Dates: October 1, 2026 (UBC nomination) | October 31, 2026 (ACM nomination) | November 30, 2026 (English translations)
Funding Amounts: $20,000 plus banquet travel expenses; $10,000 shared among honorable mention recipients
Summary: Recognizes outstanding doctoral dissertation research and writing in computer science and engineering through an international competition.
Key Information: Only the candidate’s PhD advisor may nominate a dissertation, and each dissertation may be nominated only once.
Description
ACM established the Doctoral Dissertation Award to recognize and encourage superior research and writing by doctoral candidates in computer science and engineering. Financial support is provided by ACM, while UBC Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies coordinates UBC’s institutional nominations to the international competition. Selection considers technical depth, the significance of the research contribution, potential impact on theory and practice, and quality of presentation.
The award recognizes completed dissertation work and is presented each June at the ACM Awards Banquet. One award is offered annually worldwide, and honorable mentions may also be awarded. Winning dissertations are published in print and electronic formats through the ACM Books Series, including distribution through the ACM Digital Library.
