As the Indian scientific community forges ahead in various fields, global science and technology powerhouse Merck has decided to acknowledge their efforts by launching the third edition of the Merck Young Scientist Award 2023. The award is a prestigious recognition for rising stars in the realm of scientific research across the country. With a deadline for applications set on August 16, 2023, this year’s edition promises to showcase a new batch of brilliant minds committed to pushing the boundaries of knowledge.
The award is open to researchers associated with a research institute and having less than a decade of post-PhD research experience. It seeks to celebrate those individuals whose pioneering research is propelling humanity forward. The winners will be announced at a grand ceremony on November 24, 2023.
Three categories will be spotlighted in this year’s competition: Biological Sciences, Chemical Sciences, and a special category earmarked for Sustainability Research. This addition underlines the increasing relevance of environmentally friendly research practices in modern science. Ten scientists in total will be recognised: two each from biology and chemistry, one from sustainability research, and five runners-up.
This commitment to sustainability reflects Merck’s vision for a greener future. Mr Dhananjay Singh, Head of Science and Lab Solutions at Merck Life Science, highlighted the importance of sustainability as a core aspect of contemporary scientific research. He expressed his anticipation for the innovative research findings that will emerge from this year’s competition.
A panel of distinguished jury members, chaired by Dr Anurag Agrawal, Dean of Ashoka University, Dr Radha Rangarajan, Director of CSIR-CDRI, and Dr Srinivas Reddy, Director of CSIR-IICT, will review the applications. They will work in collaboration with ten distinguished panelists from some of India’s most respected research institutes.
With over 2,000 registrations from nearly 1,000 institutes in the past, the Merck Young Scientist Award has been a catalyst for recognising scientific brilliance across India. The anticipation for this year’s event is high, with a surge in participation expected. For more information about the award and the application process, prospective applicants can visit the official website.
