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Aureus Ars et Scientia is a philanthropic foundation dedicated to advancing education, art, and science. Through the Aureus Nova Scientia Prize, it supports PhD students early in their careers, strengthens scientific collaboration across Europe, and encourages entrepreneurship by helping young scientists translate research into real-world impact.
About the prize
The Aureus Nova Scientia Prize recognizes dedicated early-career scientists in biotechnology who are advancing the frontiers of human and/or planetary health. An independent panel of distinguished scientists and entrepreneurs evaluates nominees across two award categories:
The Discovery Award honours researchers whose work demonstrates originality and relevance with potential societal (clinical or environmental) impact.
The Venture Award recognizes researchers who combine scientific innovation with an entrepreneurial mindset, demonstrating clear potential to translate their work into real-world applications, commercial opportunities, or transformative value beyond academia.
Collaborative efforts – within or beyond the lab – are a key consideration for this prize, reflecting the importance of teamwork in advancing innovation. In addition, the prize promotes scientific exchange between life science ecosystems, supporting cross-border collaboration.
The laureates of the Aureus Nova Scientia Prize receive:
- The Aureus Nova Scientia Medal and an Honorary Certificate during a formal award ceremony
- Membership in the Aureus Alumni Network, connecting past and future laureates of Aureus Ars & Scientia, including networking opportunities with industry leaders, academic experts and policy makers
In addition:
- The Discovery Award laureate receives a €5,000 cash award
- The Venture Award laureate receives a scholarship voucher for the Business Foundations Certificate Program at INSEAD, valued at €16,500 plus hotel and travel costs
The Selection Committee
A panel of internationally recognized experts in relevant disciplines are jointly appointed by Aureus Ars & Scientia and VIB. The independent selection committee is composed of 3 renowned scientists, 1 biotech CEO, and representative from Aureus Ars & Scientia and INSEAD Business School, bringing expertise across the fields of human and/or planetary health. Committee members are chosen for their global standing and commitment to scientific excellence and entrepreneurship.
The Organizing Committee
The Aureus Nova Scientia Prize is an initiative of Aureus Ars et Scientia, a philanthropic foundation committed to promoting education, art, and science, developed in partnership with VIB, a Belgium-based life sciences research institute. Through this initiative, Aureus Ars et Scientia seeks to inspire and support PhD students early in their careers, while also strengthening scientific collaboration across Europe. The prize also aims to stimulate entrepreneurship among young scientists by encouraging them to translate their research into real-world impact.
Our commitment
We are committed to ensuring that the Aureus Nova Scientia Prize is fair, inclusive, and accessible to everyone. We welcome applications from researchers of all backgrounds and experiences. Selection is based solely on scientific merit and potential, without discrimination of any kind - including race, gender, sexual orientation, nationality, geographic location, disability, or religious or political beliefs. If you have questions about the process or need any accommodations to participate fully, please feel free to contact us.
The Award Ceremony
The prize ceremony will be held during an in-person event that brings together candidates, expert panellists, members of the organizing committee, and past laureates, alongside a select group of leading industry partners, academic experts, media representatives and policymakers. During the ceremony, both laureates will be invited to present their research and vision on stage and to receive their award. All shortlisted finalists will be announced and rewarded with a Seal of Excellence.