How to apply

As part of your application, we’ll ask some questions, and then ask you to write up to three pages addressing the criteria. You’ll also have the option to add up to 10 pages of extra information (eg, graphs, photos, raw data, or diagrams).

You will need to provide a CV and nominate at least two internationally recognised experts who can comment on your research and achievements as they relate to the criteria for this Prize.

You will also be required to submit a proposal on how you will use $100,000 of the Prize money over a year (predominantly in New Zealand) on ongoing research, development, or scale-up and growth of your innovation.

 

Dates and deadline 

You can apply for this Prize between Wednesday 12 August and Wednesday 30 September 2026.

 

Instructions for the portal 

  1. Go to https://Portal.pmscienceprizes.org.nz
  2. Register in the portal and then log in.
  3. Make a profile. (If you have used this portal before, make sure your profile and CV are updated).
  4. If you are part of a team, list all team members who have agreed to apply, with their email addresses.  They will each need to register, sign in, and make a profile.
  5. When you have made your profile go to ‘Home’, and click on ‘Innovation Prize’ and  ‘Apply’.
  6. You will be prompted to:
    –   Upload a CV (maximum two pages)
    –   Provide details of two credible international referees
  7. The application form can be downloaded from the portal, and uploaded again when completed.
  8. The process is complete when all applicants and referees have completed and submitted all documents.


Instructions for your referees 

  • Each referee will receive an email inviting them to register in the portal.
  • They’ll each have to make a profile by answering some compulsory questions.
  • They can download the referee form from the portal, and upload again once completed.

 

NEED HELP?  HAVE OTHER PĀTAI QUESTIONS?

Ko te Kaiwhakahaere the Secretariat for The Prime Minister’s Science Prizes is Royal Society Te Apārangi.  Contact details are:

Te Kaiwhakahaere the Secretariat The Prime Minister’s Science Prizes
Royal Society Te Apārangi
PO Box 598
Wellington
(04) 470 5762
pmscienceprizes@royalsociety.org.nz

Supported by the New Zealand Government with funding from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment.