The Lister Institute is delighted to announce that applications for the prestigious Lister Prize Award 2026 are now open. Learn more about this unique opportunity for early-career researchers to drive pioneering biomedical science with substantial funding and support.
We are thrilled to invite applications for the Lister Prize Award 2026. This award provides a generous grant to support innovative biomedical research and is renowned for supporting significant contributions to fundamental and clinically relevant bioscience.
The application period opened on Monday 8 July 2025, and we encourage all eligible scientists to apply.
Celebrating the 2025 Prize Winners
This year, we honoured eight outstanding scientists whose groundbreaking research ranges from motor neuron disease to synthetic cell therapy. All our current Fellows exemplify the spirit of innovation, passion, deep curiosity and excellence that the Lister Prize seeks to foster.
The Lister Prize will accelerate my research into the genetics of MND; through direct support, and also through the opportunity to interact and collaborate with the wider Lister family of exceptional scientists. The flexible funding will allow me to fine-tune the development of my multidisciplinary lab to leverage cutting-edge tools and technologies.
– Dr Johnathan Cooper-Knock, Lister Prize Fellow 2025
Insights from the Scientific Committee
The selection process for the Lister Prize is rigorous, overseen by our esteemed Scientific Committee. Recently, we spoke with two committee members, Professor Clare Isacke and Professor Angus Lamond, who shared invaluable tips for prospective applicants. They emphasised the importance of clarity and impact in research proposals, advising applicants to clearly articulate how their work will advance the field and benefit society.
Start your application in plenty of time, and don’t underestimate how much time is needed to fill in all the other bits of the form. A great proposal can be brought down if the candidate doesn’t explain what they will do with the Lister funding, how it will transform their research and so on.
– Professor Clare Isacke, member Scientific Committee
What it meant to me
The Lister Prize offers far more than a financial award; it is a transformative experience. Our What it meant to me page features heartfelt testimonials from past winners. Dr Christopher Stewart shares how the prize opened new research avenues and provided unparalleled networking opportunities. Dr Stineke Van Houte highlights the flexibility of the funding, which allowed her to balance her research with personal commitments.
I was motivated to put in an application because I knew that Lister funds people at an early stage in their career – just like myself. What also helped is that the application form is simple and straightforward – unlike many other funding application schemes.
– Dr Stineke Van Houte, Lister Prize Fellow 2021
For a deeper insight into the impact of the Lister Prize, spend a few minutes watching our Lister Reflections videos. These videos feature former fellows reflecting on their journeys and the transformative effect of winning the Lister Prize. Their stories reveal the enduring legacy of the award and its role in nurturing new generations of scientific leaders.
How to apply
Applying for the Lister Prize is a straightforward process, but it requires careful preparation. Our application and guidance page provides detailed instructions on how to submit a compelling application. Key tips include focusing on the novelty and potential impact of your research, demonstrating a clear plan for the use of funds, and highlighting your track record of excellence
“Speak to someone who has previously received the Prize or has been on the Committee, if at all possible. Get someone who is in touch with the process to give feedback on your application,”
Speak to someone who has previously received the Prize or has been on the Committee, if at all possible. Get someone who is in touch with the process to give feedback on your application.
– Professor Angus Lamond, member Scientific Committee
The Lister Prize Award 2026 is an incredible opportunity for early- and mid-career researchers to gain recognition and support for their innovative work. We look forward to receiving your applications and supporting the next wave of scientific breakthroughs.
For more information and to start your application, please visit our Application and Guidance pages.
