Presidential Early Career Award in Science and Engineering (PECASE)
PECASE recognizes and supports exceptional early-career scientists and engineers, fostering innovation and leadership in science and technology for national advancement.
Funder: Air Force Office of Scientific Research
Due Dates (Anticipated): August 2026 (Nominations open) | November 2026 (Nominations close)
Funding Amounts: $200,000 per year for 5 years (total $1M per awardee)
Summary: Recognizes and supports exceptional early-career scientists and engineers with demonstrated leadership and innovation potential in science and technology.
Key Information: Researchers cannot apply directly; nomination by an AFOSR Program Officer is required.
Description
The Presidential Early Career Award in Science and Engineering (PECASE) is the highest honor bestowed by the United States government on outstanding scientists and engineers at the outset of their independent research careers. The award aims to foster innovative developments in science and technology, highlight the missions of participating agencies such as AFOSR, and strengthen the link between fundamental research and national priorities. Recipients are selected annually based on nominations from agencies and are recognized for their exceptional potential for leadership at the frontiers of scientific knowledge.
