The b54 Biology Prize recognizes original research that contributes to our understanding of living systems. This prize spans the full breadth of the biological sciences, from molecular biology and genetics to ecology, evolutionary biology, and biotechnology.
We value research that asks important questions about how organisms function, interact, and evolve. Whether your work involves genome analysis, protein characterization, ecological field studies, or the development of biotechnological tools, this prize is designed to reward scientific curiosity and methodological skill.
Africa's extraordinary biodiversity and its unique public health landscape make it a critically important region for biological research. This prize aims to support students who are contributing to that body of knowledge and to ensure their discoveries gain the visibility they deserve.
Undergraduate and postgraduate students who have completed a thesis or research paper in any area of biology should apply. Your work might focus on cell biology, microbiology, plant science, zoology, marine biology, bioinformatics, or any other subdiscipline. We are looking for research that demonstrates careful scientific reasoning, whether it involves laboratory experiments, field observations, computational analysis, or a combination of approaches.
The best submissions demonstrate a clear research question, appropriate methodology, and thoughtful interpretation of results. Judges value work with well-designed experiments or field studies, proper controls, and statistical rigor. Papers that situate their findings within a broader biological context and articulate the significance of their contribution — whether to basic science or to applied problems in health, agriculture, or conservation — are especially strong.
Submissions close December 1, 2026. Expert panels review all entries during December and January. Shortlisted candidates are notified by February 2027. Winners are announced in March 2027 at a ceremony.
Winners receive the prize amount ($1,500 undergraduate / $2,500 postgraduate), an official b54 certificate, a featured profile on the b54 website, and an invitation to present their work. Winners are also connected with mentors in their field.