How to impress the Nature Awards judges

The Inspiring Women in Science award recognizes projects promoting gender equality in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Credit: Ian Alderman Outstanding science has the potential to transform the world for the better. The Nature Awards champion projects that are leading the way. Competition is fierce, with researchers from around the world vying to be recognized by Nature for their scientific excellence. Here, three of the judges share their tips for potential applicants of three award categories in 2026: the Spinoff Prize, which celebrates the success of products or services created by university spin-off companies; Inspiring Women in Science, which recognizes projects promoting gender equality in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), with categories for scientific achievement and science outreach; and the Global Grants for Gut Health, which funds projects focused on boosting knowledge about the gut microbiota. The Nature Awards are sponsored awards that are run independently from sponsors and the publisher. SUE SUNDSTROM: panel chair, the Spinoff Prize Sue Sundstrom looks for applicants who know how to understand customers’ needs. Having worked in private companies and the university sector, Sue Sundstrom uses her commercial background to show academics how to succeed in the business world. …