The NOSTER & Science Microbiome Prize is an international award established to recognize and reward innovative research by young investigators who are exploring the functional roles of microbiota—the vast communities of microorganisms living within and around living organisms. This prize celebrates those whose discoveries have the potential to transform our understanding of human and veterinary health, disease mechanisms, and therapeutic innovations derived from the microbiome. In recent years, microbiome science has emerged as one of the most dynamic areas of life sciences. Each human body harbors trillions of microorganisms that profoundly influence health, metabolism, development, and immunity. The relationships between these microorganisms and their hosts shape not only our well-being but also the course of numerous chronic diseases such as inflammation, obesity, cancer, and autoimmune disorders. As the field evolves from descriptive studies to mechanistic understanding, the NOSTER & Science Microbiome Prize encourages early-career scientists to uncover how microbial interactions influence host physiology—and how these insights can be translated into novel diagnostics, therapies, and preventive strategies. Science Awards
Purpose of the Prize:
The primary objective of this prestigious award is to:
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Recognize outstanding contributions to microbiome-related functional research.
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Encourage young researchers to apply genomics, bioinformatics, and molecular tools to explore host–microbiota interactions.
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Promote the translation of microbiome science into healthcare innovations benefiting humans and animals.
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Inspire collaboration and knowledge sharing among scientists worldwide.
Award Categories and Benefits:
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A cash award of US$25,000.
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Travel and accommodation for the prize ceremony.
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A five-year digital subscription to Science magazine.
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Publication of their winning essay in Science (both print and online).
Runner(s)-Up (Maximum 2):
Each runner-up will receive:
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A commemorative award plaque.
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Travel and accommodation for the prize ceremony.
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A one-year digital subscription to Science.
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Publication of their winning essay in Science (online edition).
Eligibility and Scope:
The prize is open to young investigators whose research addresses the functional attributes of the microbiota of any organism, particularly in ways that:
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Enhance understanding of human or veterinary health and disease.
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Guide the development of therapeutic interventions or disease prevention strategies.
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Utilize advanced genomic, computational, or experimental approaches to study microbial communities.
Researchers in microbiology, immunology, molecular biology, biotechnology, and systems biology are especially encouraged to apply.
Organizing Institutions:
The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)—the world’s largest general scientific society—publishes leading journals, including Science, Science Advances, Science Immunology, Science Signaling, Science Robotics, and Science Translational Medicine.
Founded in 1848, AAAS represents over 250 affiliated societies and academies, serving more than 10 million individuals worldwide.
AAAS fulfills its mission to “advance science and serve society” through programs in science policy, education, international cooperation, and public engagement.
About NOSTER Inc.
NOSTER Inc., headquartered in Kyoto, Japan, was established on May 15, 2020, with a vision to connect life and the gut microbiome. The company specializes in the research and development of gut microbiome–based therapeutics and has created a unique library of intestinal microbes and metabolites, known as postbiotics.
NOSTER’s mission is to elucidate the functions of over 1,000 species of human gut microorganisms—totaling more than 100 trillion cells—to advance microbiome science and improve global health outcomes. Their work addresses immune, digestive, and cancer-related diseases linked to microbial imbalance, paving the way for next-generation biotherapies.
How to Apply:
Applications must include:
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A personal essay (in English) describing the applicant’s research and its relevance to microbiome science and human/veterinary health.
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Supporting documentation such as curriculum vitae, references, and publications, as outlined in the official entry guidelines.
- Apply by 14 February 2026.
Full details on eligibility, essay format, submission process, and deadlines can be found on the official NOSTER & Science Microbiome Prize webpage.
For inquiries, please contact: NosterSciencePrize@aaas.org
