Frequently asked questions

General

Q: Who can I contact for more information? 

Please don’t hesitate to contact us via awards@nature.com if you require any further information.

Q: When can I apply? 

The Nature Awards for Inspiring Women in Science will re-open for applications in 2025.

Q: Do applicants need to be nominated?

No. Applicants for each award need to submit their own applications.

However, you can recommend an applicant here. They will be sent an email once they have been recommended directing them to apply.

Q: When will I know if I have been shortlisted? 

We will update all applicants about their progression. Shortlisted candidates will be notified by September 2024.

 Q. Will I receive feedback on my application?

Feedback about the application can be made available on request via awards@nature.com

Q. Can I enter both of the award categories?

Yes, you can. The Scientific Achievement and Science Outreach categories are separate, and you are welcome to submit an application to both categories if you meet the eligibility criteria.

Q. If an applicant was among the shortlist last year, are they eligible to apply for the award again?
We welcome second applications, but keep in mind that the judges panel will compare this application to the previous application and will evaluate your progress.

Q. How do you define tenure?

A tenured (or equivalent permanent) post is an indefinite academic appointment that can be terminated only for cause or under extraordinary circumstances.

Applicants must hold a non-tenured position. This includes those who have non-permanent postdoctoral and/or non-permanent tenure-track positions (or equivalents such as proleptic lecturer positions). Those in a tenured position (or equivalents, such as permanent lecturer position) are not eligible to apply.

Q: When do I need to have obtained my PhD/MD or equivalent in the Scientific Achievement category?

You should have obtained your PhD degree, MD, or other type of doctorate by dissertation after 31 December 2014. This period will be extended in case of maternity leaves or other leaves of absences taken during the 10-year period which can be specified in the application form.

Q: If my Science Outreach initiative has both boys and girls taking part, can I still apply?

If the percentage of girls is less than 100% of those taking part, you need a clear explanation of how your initiative primarily focuses on girls. We will consider all initiatives where at least 50% of those taking part are girls.