IUMS Member Society Research Excellence Awards

Kenes Multisite 2 Sites > IUMS 2026 > IUMS Member Society Research Excellence Awards

IUMS Member Society Research Excellence Awards

Celebrating the Future of Microbiology

The International Union of Microbiological Societies (IUMS) is proud to announce the launch of the Member Society Research Excellence Awards. As a cornerstone of the IUMS 2026 Biennial Congress in Lisbon, these prestigious accolades are designed to shine a global spotlight on outstanding early-to-mid-career researchers (EMCRs) who are pushing the boundaries of microbial science.

These awards serve as a vital bridge between IUMS and our Member Societies, providing an international forum to showcase the individuals who will lead our community into the “Beyond the Microscope” era.

🌟 The Award Experience

The IUMS Member Society Research Excellence Awards offer more than just a title—they provide a global platform for scientific exchange and professional elevation.

  • IUMS will select up to six (6) awardees to deliver oral presentations during a high-profile, 1.5-hour Award Session at the Congress.

  • All nominees not selected for the oral session will be offered automatic poster presentation slots, ensuring their research is part of the scientific dialogue in Lisbon.

  • To ensure maximum impact, presentations will be integrated into the core scientific themes of the Congress.

Awardees will receive:

Complimentary
Congress
Registration

Covered by IUMS

Formal Recognition

as an IUMS Member Society Research Excellence Awardee

Invited Oral
Presentation

For selected awardees

Note: Travel and accommodation are expected to be supported by the nominating Member Society. Societies with limited financial resources may apply to IUMS for travel support, subject to availability.

🧬 Eligibility & Selection Criteria

We are looking for the next generation of pioneers. To be eligible for nomination, candidates must meet the following criteria:

  • Career Stage: Within 15 years post-PhD at the time of nomination (career interruptions such as parental leave or clinical training will be considered).

  • Society Affiliation: Must have been a member of the nominating IUMS Member Society for at least one year.

  • Professional Sector: Open to researchers employed in academia, industry, clinical practice, public health, or government research.

  • Presence: Candidates must be able to attend and present their work in person at the IUMS Congress in Lisbon (November 4–6, 2026).

How winners are chosen:

Research Excellence & Originality

Demonstrated breakthrough thinking in microbiology.

Scientific Impact

A proven track record of contribution to the field and emerging leadership.

Theme Relevance

How well the research aligns with the IUMS 2026 scientific roadmap

Equity & Diversity

IUMS is committed to gender equity and broad geographical distribution in our final selection.

đź“ť The Nomination Process

Each IUMS Member Society is invited to nominate one (1) candidate. Nominations must be submitted by the Society leadership and include the following documentation:

  1. Completed Nomination Form – Download the official IUMS Nomination Form below.

  2. Curriculum Vitae: A comprehensive overview of the candidate’s career (Max. 4 pages).

  3. Research Summary: A concise outline of key achievements and scientific impact (Max. 1 page).

  4. Statement of Support: A formal letter from the Member Society confirming the internal selection process and expected travel support.

Important: Incomplete or late submissions will not be considered.

👉 Information for Potential Nominees

📢 Are you a researcher interested in being nominated?

While the official nomination must be submitted by an IUMS Member Society, we encourage outstanding researchers to be proactive. If you meet the eligibility criteria and wish to be considered for this award:

  1. Contact Your Leadership: Reach out to your local Society’s Board or Secretariat to express your interest in being their official nominee for the IUMS Member Society Research Excellence Awards.

  2. Check Internal Deadlines: Each Member Society may have its own internal review process and earlier deadlines to select their single candidate. We recommend contacting them as soon as possible.

Please note: Direct applications from individuals to IUMS will not be accepted. All nominations must be endorsed and submitted by a Member Society.

DOWNLOAD NOMINATION FORM

🗓️ Key Dates for 2026

Mark your calendars to ensure your society’s rising star is represented:

  • February 2026: Call for Nominations Opens

  • April 29th, 2026: Nomination Deadline (Midnight CET – No Extensions)

  • Mid-June 2026: Notification of Outcomes

👉Ready to Submit?

Nominations should be submitted electronically to the IUMS 2026 Scientific Program Representative: 📧 Violeta Petrova – vpetrova@kenes.com