National Academies Eric and Wendy Schmidt Awards for Excellence in Science Communications
Forecasted
National Academies Eric and Wendy Schmidt Awards for Excellence in Science Communications support communicators, journalists, and researchers whose original work makes science engaging for the public.
Funder: Schmidt Sciences
Due Dates (Anticipated): April 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: $20,000 or $40,000 prizes; 24 awards totaling $640,000 in the 2026 cycle
Summary: Recognizes individuals whose creative, original work makes science, engineering, or medicine accessible and engaging for general audiences.
Key Information: Awards recognize individuals, not teams; category eligibility and work-example rules depend on the qualifying year.
Description
The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine present these awards in partnership with Schmidt Sciences to recognize excellence in science communication and journalism. The program honors science communicators, journalists, and practicing research scientists who create original work exploring issues and advances in science, engineering, or medicine for the general public. It emphasizes recognition at career stages or in settings where an award could significantly influence an individual’s future career.
Beyond the prizes, the program seeks to build a community of awardees who demystify complex scientific and health issues, inspiring wonder and curiosity about daily life and planetary well-being. Schmidt Sciences supports this community through partnerships with journalistic institutions offering ongoing training and professional development.
