The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) has officially opened nominations for the TWAS–Fayzah M. Al-Kharafi Award 2026, a prestigious international award that recognizes exceptional women scientists from scientifically and technologically lagging (STL) countries. The annual award aims to celebrate scientific excellence while promoting greater visibility and recognition for women conducting impactful research in developing regions.
For the 2026 edition, the award will focus on achievements in Agricultural Sciences and Biology, fields considered critical to addressing global challenges such as food security, climate resilience, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable development. The winner will receive a cash prize of USD 4,000, sponsored by renowned scientist and TWAS Fellow Professor Fayzah M. Al-Kharafi.
TWAS announced that nominations will remain open until 30 June 2026, with submissions invited from TWAS members, science academies, universities, national research councils, and scientific institutions worldwide. Self-nominations are not permitted, reflecting the program’s emphasis on peer recognition and institutional endorsement.
According to TWAS, the award was established to honor women scientists whose research contributions have strengthened scientific development within countries facing significant technological and research challenges. The initiative forms part of broader international efforts to address gender disparities in science and support women researchers working in under-resourced environments.
"Recognizing scientific excellence among women researchers is essential for building stronger and more inclusive scientific communities,"
a TWAS program statement noted in the 2026 call for nominations.
"Women scientists continue to make significant contributions to solving local and global challenges despite facing structural barriers in many regions."
Eligible nominees must be female scientists who are nationals of scientifically and technologically lagging countries and who have lived and worked in those countries for at least two consecutive years before nomination. Fellows of TWAS and previous recipients of TWAS-named awards are not eligible for consideration.
The award rotates across different scientific disciplines each year. In previous editions, it has recognized achievements in fields such as medical sciences, environmental research, and social sciences. Organizers say the 2026 focus on agricultural sciences and biology reflects the growing importance of research that contributes to sustainable food systems and environmental resilience.
Professor Fayzah M. Al-Kharafi, after whom the award is named, is internationally recognized for her contributions to chemistry and scientific leadership. Through her support of the program, the award continues to promote opportunities for women scientists whose work might otherwise receive limited international attention.
Scientific institutions submitting nominations must provide detailed documentation outlining the nominee’s research achievements, scientific impact, future research plans, and publication record. Evaluation criteria include originality, contribution to scientific advancement, and the broader significance of the nominee’s work within her field.
Research policy analyst Dr. Elizabeth Moyo believes such programs play a crucial role in strengthening scientific leadership across developing countries.
"Recognition creates opportunities,"
Moyo said during a science policy forum on May 26.
"Awards like this increase visibility for researchers, encourage collaboration, and help inspire the next generation of women scientists."
The award has previously honored women researchers whose work has addressed major challenges in public health, environmental sustainability, materials science, and scientific innovation. Past recipients have gone on to receive additional international recognition and contribute to scientific leadership within their regions.
Observers note that women remain underrepresented in many scientific disciplines worldwide, particularly in leadership positions and research funding opportunities. International organizations increasingly view targeted awards and fellowship programs as important tools for promoting gender equity within the global scientific community.
Agricultural scientist Dr. Grace Ndlovu emphasized the significance of supporting women working in research fields that directly affect development outcomes.
"Agricultural science influences food security, economic growth, and environmental sustainability,"
Ndlovu said on May 28.
"Recognizing women who contribute to these areas helps strengthen scientific capacity where it is needed most."
Beyond the monetary prize, the TWAS–Fayzah M. Al-Kharafi Award offers recipients international visibility and professional recognition, often leading to new research partnerships, funding opportunities, and academic collaborations. Many scientists view the award as one of the most respected honors available to women researchers in developing countries.
As the June 30 nomination deadline approaches, universities, research institutions, and scientific organizations are being encouraged to identify and nominate deserving candidates. For many women scientists working in challenging environments, the award represents not only recognition of past achievements but also an opportunity to amplify their impact on global scientific progress.