NWO Celebrates Excellence with Prestigious Awards for Scientific Contributions

NWO Celebrates Excellence with Prestigious Awards for Scientific Contributions

(IN BRIEF) The NWO Domain Science (ENW) has awarded five prestigious prizes, each worth €50,000, to recognize outstanding contributions in science across categories such as societal impact, diversity, communication, and team collaboration. The winners include female role models advancing equality, initiatives promoting inclusivity and public engagement, research translating into societal solutions, and exemplary interdisciplinary teamwork. These awards not only celebrate excellence but also foster inspiration and progress in the scientific community.

(PRESS RELEASE) THE HAGUE, 28-Nov-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — For the fifth year in a row, the NWO Domain Science (ENW) has recognized exceptional individuals and teams in the scientific community by presenting five prestigious awards. These prizes highlight achievements in scientific excellence, societal impact, diversity, science communication, and collaborative teamwork. Each award, accompanied by a €50,000 prize, celebrates efforts that inspire others and drive progress in their respective fields.

Athena Award

The Athena Award honors outstanding female scientists who not only excel in their fields but also serve as role models for the next generation of women in science. This year, the award celebrates Prof. Dr. Hannah Dugdale (RUG) and Prof. Dr. Liesbeth Janssen (TUE) for their exceptional contributions and efforts to support women pursuing scientific careers.

Communication Initiative Award

Designed to highlight initiatives that bridge the gap between science and the public, the Communication Initiative Award for 2024 recognizes No Guts No Glory, a project led by Prof. Dr. Iris Sommer and her team. Their initiative has successfully inspired and engaged audiences, fostering greater understanding of scientific research.

Diversity & Inclusion Initiative Award

The Diversity & Inclusion Initiative Award acknowledges efforts to create more inclusive workplaces in the scientific community. This year’s award goes to the ICS Diversity Committee & WICS, represented by Prof. Dr. Anja Volk, Dr. Maartje de Graaf, and Dr. Tamara Mchedlidze (UU), for their impactful work in promoting equity and representation in the workplace.

Stairway to Impact Award

The Stairway to Impact Award recognizes scientists who translate academic research into real-world solutions. Prof. Dr. Wim Noorduin (amolf) has been awarded for his innovative efforts to address societal challenges, making meaningful contributions beyond the academic sphere.

Team Science Award

The Team Science Award highlights the power of interdisciplinary collaboration. The 2024 award honors the AIRMEC-team, which includes researchers like Nanda Horeweg, Prof. Viktor Kölzer, and Dr. Tjalling Bosse, for their exemplary teamwork in solving complex scientific problems.

A Platform for Inspiration and Progress

Each award emphasizes the importance of collaboration, diversity, and the societal relevance of scientific work. The NWO Domain Science continues to champion initiatives that inspire the next generation of scientists while addressing critical challenges faced by society. With €250,000 distributed among this year’s winners, these awards ensure that impactful research continues to thrive.

Media Contact:

Telephone: +31 (0)70 3440640
Email: nwo@nwo.nl

Source: NWO