Northwestern's $350,000 Prize Honoring Leading Medical Scientists

Northwestern University has opened its doors for nominations for the 2026 Mechthild Esser Nemmers Prize in Medical Science. This prestigious, biennial award of $350,000 recognizes physician-scientists whose work has left an indelible mark on the medical field through significant research contributions. As the deadline for nominations looms on November 1, 2025, medical institutions and professionals around the globe are eagerly preparing their submissions, celebrating those who push the boundaries of knowledge.

A Distinguished Lineage of Laureates

The past recipients of this award form a veritable hall of fame in medical science, with each laureate having made substantial advancements in their respective disciplines. From Huda Zoghbi’s breakthroughs on neurological disorders like Rett syndrome, to Jeffrey Gordon’s pioneering research on the gut microbiome, the Nemmers Prize symbolizes the pinnacle of achievement for physician-scientists worldwide.

A Platform for Global Recognition

For the 2026 award, the eligibility does not restrict by nationality or institutional affiliation, though it excludes current Northwestern faculty, past prize winners, and Nobel Laureates. The chosen laureate will not only receive the monetary prize but will also have the opportunity to deliver a public lecture, further enhancing their influence and sharing their insights with both peers and the next generation of scientists.

“Every treatment offered today began in a lab. This prize celebrates those pioneers whose discoveries fundamentally shift our understanding of human health,” emphasizes Eric Neilson, MD, Dean at Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine. Echoing this sentiment, Provost Kathleen Hagerty highlights, “We seek to honor those whose scientific dedication benefits humanity on a grand scale.”

A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation

The foundation of this award is a generous legacy left by Erwin and Frederic Esser Nemmers, extending beyond medical science to include vibrant contributions in fields like Economics, Mathematics, and the Arts at Northwestern. The series of Nemmers Prizes underscores the university’s commitment to recognizing and fostering groundbreaking work across diverse disciplines.

How to Nominate

Submissions can be sent through the Nemmers website, with nominating letters detailing the nominee’s professional journey and their significant accomplishments—capturing the essence of innovation that characterizes a Nemmers laureate. This crucial step forms the primary gateway for acknowledging and uplifting those who tirelessly work to improve lives through science.

As stated in Northwestern University, the nominations remain open until next November, holding a promise of celebrating another vanguard in the ever-evolving tapestry of medical science.