Two international research grants for 2026 are now open:

1. Nature Awards AI for Discovery (Deadline: 27 May 2026)

2. SEARCA Travel Grants Program (Deadline: 31 May 2026)

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1. Nature Awards AI for Discovery

The award supports researchers harnessing AI and machine intelligence to solve pressing societal challenges. With dedicated resources, global recognition and bespoke training, this programme empowers outstanding scientific leaders to break new ground and translate their discoveries into real-world impact.

Funding Organization: Nature in partnership with the BCG X AI Science Institute

Scope: AI

Eligibility

• Research groups based at universities, research institutes, hospitals, government or not-for-profit organizations.

• Research groups from any country, with the exception of sanctioned countries.

• Applications must be submitted by a core member of the research group, who acts as the lead applicant.

The award programme will consider applied scientific research powered by AI or machine intelligence in one of these three categories:

• Health & life sciences

• Energy, environment & agriculture

• Industry, infrastructure & manufacturing

The research must have a strong scientific foundation supported by positive data. The most recent results must be published in a peer-reviewed journal within the past five years.

The research must either demonstrate measurable real-world impact or include a well-defined pathway-to-impact plan outlining how the work will translate into practical solutions.

Maximum Award

Four successful applicants will each receive:

• A US$10,000 development grant to drive the next phase of their research.

• An all-expenses-paid invitation to a gala event and symposium in London, UK in November 2026. Winners will present their work to a global audience of scientists, policymakers and industry leaders, and benefit from international exposure through Nature and BCG X channels.

• Access to bespoke virtual training delivered by BCG X AI Science Institute consultants, providing guidance on topics including model development, scaling and paths to commercialization.

Of the four successful applicants, one overall winner will receive in addition:

• Eight hours of tailored, one-to-one coaching delivered by BCG X AI Science Institute consultants, helping to bridge the gap between discovery and deployment.

Application Process: Applications must be submitted online through: https://natureawards.submittable.com/submit

Application Deadline: 27 May 2026

Further Information: https://www.nature.com/immersive/aifordiscovery/for-applicants/index.html

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2. SEARCA Travel Grants Program

The SEARCA Travel Grants Program is designed to enable Southeast Asian nationals to engage with the global scientific community. The program provides financial support for participation in scientific conferences, workshops, and forums, helping grantees share research, establish professional networks, and foster collaborations that advance sustainable agricultural and rural development.

Priority Themes: Agricultural development, food security, climate resilience, and empowerment of agricultural stakeholders.

Eligibility

Applicants must:

• Be nationals of Southeast Asian countries

• Be professionals, researchers, social scientists, or graduate students in agriculture, rural development, or related fields

• Submit papers aligned with SEARCA’s priority themes.

Priority Applicants

• Individuals presenting papers or research at conferences

• Projects or presentations that foster meaningful linkages, collaborations, or tangible development outcomes

Maximum Award: Up to USD 1,200, which can cover conference registration fees, travel costs (airfare, ground transportation), accommodation, and related expenses for both in-person and online events.

Application Process: Applications must be submitted online through the SEARCA Grants Information System.

Application Deadline: 31 May 2026

Further information: https://www.searca.org/travel-grants

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For more information, please contact

Ms. Panida Suwannatheerak and Ms. Mananchaya Pissaparn

Tel. 02 470 9654

Email: researchfollowup@kmutt.ac.th