National Academies Eric and Wendy Schmidt Awards for Excellence in Science Communications
For individuals who are working on the frontlines of science communication, science journalism, or practicing research, and who can demonstrate the potential or ability to develop high-quality, engaging science communications or reporting.
Applications open
March 2 – April 3, 2026 11:59 PM
Under review
April 5 – October 25, 2026
Recipient announcements
October 26, 2026
News and updates
National Academies Announce 2026 Winners of Eric and Wendy Schmidt Awards for Excellence in Science Communications — $640,000 Awarded
Update
Congratulations to this year’s recipients of the Eric and Wendy Schmidt Awards for Excellence in Science Communications, given by the National Academies in partnership with Schmidt Sciences. A total of 24 awards were announced for science communication by research scientists, science journalists, and science communicators who have developed creative, original work to communicate issues and advances in science, engineering, and medicine to the general public.
Award Winners
Browse past and current award winners. Search or filter by year and award category, or find recipients of the top prize.
Want to see examples of outstanding science communication and journalism? Explore the Winners' Work Anthology to discover award-winning articles, videos, podcasts, and other creative works.