The awards recognise those researchers from a CERCA centre who have recently completed a PhD thesis with results clearly oriented towards the market.
Candidature
You can apply if you are a researcher at a CERCA centre and have submitted your thesis with clear market-oriented results in the last year.
Awards
The amount of the prize is EUR 1,000 in cash for each beneficiary. The Pioneer Awards are awarded in conjunction with a number of institutions and companies.
Assessment
The shortlisted projects will deliver a live final presentation in front of a jury, which will select the winning entries.
Calendar
You can submit your thesis defended from the time of publication of the previous call (14 October 2025) to 14 October 2026.
Collaborating organisation
Deadline
Date of publication: 15 July 2026
Deadline for submission: Until 8 September 2026
Provisional resolution proposal: 18 September 2026
Final presentation and awards ceremony: 8 October 2026
For more information: pioner@cerca.cat
