Nature Awards has partnered with the BCG X AI Science Institute, a dedicated team within BCG X that uses AI to advance scientific research and discovery, to establish AI for Discovery, a new award recognizing research teams applying AI and machine learning to accelerate solutions to major global challenges. The award is designed to celebrate researchers advancing discovery through artificial intelligence and machine-learning technologies.
AI is reshaping how science happens. Across sectors, it is speeding up discovery, opening new possibilities, and enabling researchers to address urgent problems with greater precision and scale. In response to these developments, the award will focus on work in three areas: health, sustainability, and manufacturing.
Applications for the AI for Discovery award are now open, and eligible research teams are encouraged to submit their work for consideration in the inaugural 2026 cycle. Four finalists will be selected by an independent panel of judges and announced in November. Each finalist will receive a $10,000 development grant and access to an online training program delivered by BCG X AI Science Institute consultants. One overall winner, chosen from the four finalists, will also receive tailored coaching from BCG X experts to help shape research strategy and scale impact.
The award forms part of the wider Nature Awards portfolio, which celebrates scientific excellence and seeks to amplify the real-world impact of research. It reflects Springer Nature’s ongoing commitment to supporting the global research community as it explores how AI can accelerate discovery, strengthen collaboration, and responsibly advance knowledge.
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