Young Scientists from Across the UK Shortlisted for Largest Unrestricted Science Prize

The Blavatnik Family Foundation and The New York Academy of Sciences have announced the nine Finalists for the 2026 Blavatnik Awards for Young Scientists in the United Kingdom, recognizing early-career researchers across Life Sciences, Chemical Sciences, and Physical Sciences & Engineering whose work spans areas such as genetic engineering, neurodegenerative disease mechanisms, energy processes in cells, venom toxinology, telomerase structure, ancient DNA, nanoscale materials, planet formation, and climate impacts on freshwater systems. Three Laureates, to be named at a gala in London on 24 February, will each receive an unrestricted £100,000 prize, while the six other Finalists will each be awarded £30,000 to support their research. Selected by an independent jury from 91 nominees across 46 UK institutions, the Finalists reflect both scientific excellence and the potential for broad societal impact. “The Awards were created to honor outstanding, early-career scientists, accelerate their research, and ensure that discoveries with the potential to dramatically improve society are recognized, supported, and implemented,” said Sir Leonard Blavatnik, Founder of Access Industries and Head of the Blavatnik Family Foundation. The unrestricted prizes provide flexible support that researchers can apply to advance their work without limitations. Together, this cohort highlights the depth and diversity of emerging scientific leadership in the UK. Read the full press release here.