The CERCA Institution has launched the 13th edition of the PIONER Awards, a well-established initiative that recognises doctoral theses with strong knowledge transfer potential.
The aim is to identify scientific results capable of being transformed into solutions with tangible impact, whether in industry, the marketplace, or the development of public policy.
Promoting Knowledge Transfer from the Start of a Research Career
The PIONER Awards seek to foster a culture of knowledge transfer from the earliest stages of researchers’ careers. The call is open to researchers from CERCA centres who obtained their doctoral degree between 14 October 2025 and 14 July 2026, and who can present a concrete proposal for applying the results of their thesis.
Applications will remain open until 8 September 2026 at 5.00 pm. In addition to demonstrating scientific excellence, candidates will be expected to present a clear vision of the potential impact of their work.
Selection Process and Awards
The selection process will take place in two stages. Following an initial assessment, ten finalist projects will be selected and announced on 18 September 2026. These finalists will then be invited to present their proposals before an external jury at the final event.
The six highest-rated projects will each receive a prize of €1,000, with the support of the Fundació Catalana per a la Recerca i la Innovació (FCRI).
Project Preparation and Presentation
As in previous editions, participants will have access to an optional pitching training session, designed to help them communicate their proposals effectively to a jury that may not necessarily have expertise in their specific field.
The final event, including the presentation of the finalist projects and the PIONER Awards 2026 ceremony, will take place on 8 October 2026.
