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External Awards

Below, please find a selection of award opportunities with links to program details.

If you are planning to apply or nominate a faculty member, please advise the Office of the Vice-President, Research and Innovation (OVPRI) as well as your Associate Dean (Research) and Department Chair.

For more information regarding external award opportunities or to suggest additions to this list, please email Elizabeth Mueller, Research Awards and Honours Facilitator, at elizabeth.mueller@torontomu.ca.

Tri-Council Awards

Opportunity External Deadline Internal Approval Requirements

Four awards: Impact, Discovery, Early Career and Transformation awards. ($100K each)
TBD – on hold None.

Recognizes an individual, team or organization that has advanced the mobilization of research in aging at a local or regional level ($20K). 
TBD None.

For impactful interdisciplinary partnerships in science and engineering. ($250K)
TBD None.

Senior career award for persistent excellence in science and engineering. ($1M)
TBD
None.

For research leading to exceptional benefits for Canadian society, environment and economy. ($250K)
TBD
None.

For a recent advance in science and engineering. ($250K)
TBD
None.

For sustained and impactful partnerships with private, public and non-profit organizations in science and engineering. ($250K)
TBD None.

For inspirational achievement in promoting science. ($10K-25K)
TBD None.

Recognizes early career leaders in science and engineering. ($250K)
TBD
91¸£Àû may submit 6 nominations. Internal competition details will be advertised in advance.

For sustained leadership, dedication and originality of thought in the social sciences and humanities. ($100K)
TBD 91¸£Àû may submit 1 nomination. Internal processes will be advertised in advance.

For outstanding achievement from a single or multiple SSHRC-funded initiative(s). ($50K)
TBD 91¸£Àû may submit 1 nomination. Internal processes will be advertised in advance.

Recognizes impacts arising from a formal partnership in the social sciences and humanities. Must hold a PG or PDG. ($50K)
TBD 91¸£Àû may submit 1 nomination. Internal processes will be advertised in advance.

For an outstanding SSHRC-funded initiative that facilitates the exchange of research knowledge within and/or beyond the social sciences and humanities research community. ($50K)
TBD 91¸£Àû may submit 1 nomination. Internal processes will be advertised in advance.

National and Provincial Awards

Opportunity External Deadline Internal Approval Requirements

For advancements in food production, processing, distribution, consumption, safety and/or human nutrition; $100K.
TBD - On hold  

Supports academics recognized for their expertise and research in areas related to the bank's core functions. Five-year term. ($90K)
TBD Must be nominated by 91¸£Àû. Internal process requirements will be communicated in advance. Contact OVPRI if interested.

Supports academics who are recognized for their expertise and research in areas important to the bank's core functions. ($30K/year for 2 years)
TBD Must be nominated by 91¸£Àû. Internal process requirements will be communicated in advance. Contact OVPRI if interested.

For exceptional contributions in applied and industrial mathematics within 10 years of PhD.
TBD None.

Eight awards recognizing remarkable careers in the visual and media arts. ($25K)
October 7, 2026 None.

For distinguished and sustained contributions to the social sciences/humanities and the arts. ($50K per category)
October 7, 2026 None.

Two awards for mid-career scholars who, in the last 6 years, have produced a focused, cohesive and impactful body of scientific health research. (50K)
July 15, 2026 None.

An opportunity to present research as part of the Gairdner Science Week. Five investigators are chosen to give 10-minute talks in association with the Laureate Lectures.
TBD None.

Recognizes inspirational and trail-blazing women.
May 12, 2026 None.

For exceptional contributions to the field of science policy (innovation policy and science for policy).
June 14, 2026 None.

Elected members are national/international leaders in health sciences (natural sciences, engineering and social sciences).
TBD An institutional letter of support or nomination is normally included. Contact OVPRI if interested.

Represents the highest honour for Canada's most accomplished nursing leaders in clinical practice, education, administration, research and policy.
TBD None.

For outstanding contribution to physics within 12 years of PhD.
TBD None.

Recognizes research achievement and career potential in Canadian geography within 8 years of a PhD.
TBD None.

Awards: Outstanding Achievements in Cancer Research; Exceptional Leadership in Patient Involvement in Cancer Research; Exceptional Leadership in Cancer Research; Distinguished Service to Cancer Research 
TBD; awarded every two years   

Four awards: Inclusive Excellence Prize, William E. Rawls Prize (ECRs in cancer control), Bernard and Francis Dorval Prize (ECRs in biomedical research), Robert L. Noble Prize (basic biomedical advancements), O. Harold Warwick Prize (cancer control research), Lifetime Contribution Prize.
TBD Note: this award tends to change deadlines frequently. 

For outstanding contributions to mathematical research within 10 years of PhD.
September 30, 2026 None.

For substantial and distinguished contributions to linguistics within 10 years of PhD.
TBD None.

For outstanding achievements in bioengineering (scientific or technical developments, leadership, or service) that contributed to the improvement of health care delivery in Canada.  
TBD None.

Canadians whose work has advanced health and whose outstanding leadership, integrity and contributions to medicine and the health sciences, in Canada or abroad.
June 8, 2026 None.

For an outstanding contribution to research in nutrition within 15 years of PhD.
TBD None.

For the exceptional quality of contributions of new researchers within 5 years of PhD to psychological knowledge.
TBD None.

For those under 40 years of age who have made outstanding contributions to Canadian agricultural, food, and/or biological engineering.
May 15, 2026 None.

For those under 40 demonstrating distinguished contribution to chemical engineering.
August 1, 2026 None.

For those within 7 years of their first professional appointment and demonstrating an outstanding contribution to chemical engineering. 
August 1, 2026 None.

For outstanding achievement in creative mechanical engineering within 10 years of PhD.  
January 31, 2027 None.

For outstanding research in one or more of the fields of biochemistry, molecular or cellular biology in Canada within 7 years of the first independent appointment.
TBD None.

Honours sociologists who have made significant research contributions in the early stages of their career (within 5 years PhD).
TBD None.

For outstanding achievement in mathematics within 8 years of PhD.
TBD None.

For a researcher whose work has made an important contribution to policy debates relevant to building a more socially just Canada.
TBD None.

For an outstanding early career researcher (within 12 years of PhD) who has made distinguished contributions in environmental chemistry or environmental chemical engineering.
September 1, 2026 None.

For those within 7 years of their first appointment actively engaged in health-related research and demonstrating excellence and outstanding contributions in nutrition-related research.
TBD None.

Three awards are available that recognize contributions to affordable housing research. ($12,500-$25,000)
TBD None.

For a community-campus research partnership that has demonstrated excellence in community-based research.
TBD None.

Recognizes and celebrates an individual who embodies community-based research values in their work. Must be 5 years from PhD / 5 years in position.
TBD None.

For outstanding and sustained contributions to the field of computer science.
TBD None.

For a contribution that notably improves our understanding of applying fabrication technology, design methods and computer-aided design tools and/or system architecture. Must have completed a PhD within the past 3 years. ($4500)
TBD Must be submitted by a research office. Contact OVRPI if interested.

For distinguished Chinese Canadians with outstanding professional achievements. ($2500)
July 31, 2026 None.

For outstanding Canadian innovators who help shape our future and inspire the next generation.
TBD Must be nominated through a nominating partner. Deadlines for partners vary in September/October. Contact OVPRI if interested.

For a scholar who has made an outstanding contribution to scholarship and to the development of Canadian Studies internationally.
TBD None.

For individuals who have made pivotal contributions to the advancement of knowledge in the health sciences and/or the improvement of therapeutics healthcare. ($20K)
July 10, 2026 None.

Recognizes outstanding individuals whose work advances equitable participation in health research and access to health care in Canada, improving the well-being of all Canadians, particularly those facing inequities. 
TBD None.

Recognizes a highly respected leader who has inspired and led Ontario's life sciences community in more than one domain, including industry, government, academia, volunteerism, IDEA (inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility) and philanthropy.
TBD None.

Seeks individuals who strive for the public good, have an excellent record of academic achievement, and excel at collaboration and mentorship.
TBD Must be nominated by a current or former fellow. Contact OVPRI if interested.

Honours distinguished Canadian scholars with an award in humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, health sciences and engineering. ($100K)
May 28, 2026 None.

For an individual or group having made a significant contribution to meritorious knowledge and understanding of the Canadian North.
TBD None.

Recognizes people across all sectors of society who have made extraordinary and sustained contributions to our nation.
Continuous intake None.

For an Ontarian who has shown the highest level of excellence and achievement in any field and whose impact has left a lasting legacy in our province, in our country and around the world.
March 31, 2027 None.

The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Fellowship is a prestigious three-year award recognized as a premier distinction for senior academics in the humanities and social sciences. Valued at up to $300,000 per fellow, the fellowship includes a $70,000 prize, research grants and support for a one-year teaching release to allow for transformative contributions to the Fellow's field and the public sphere. There are up to four fellows selected nationally per year. 

Eligibility & Themes

The Foundation seeks nominees who are tenured professors (or near the rank of Full Professor) at a Canadian university with a national or international reputation for excellence. Candidates’ research must intersect with one or more of the Foundation's four key themes:

  • Human Rights and Dignity
  • Responsible Citizenship
  • Canada and the World
  • People and their Natural Environment

Expectations

Fellows are expected to be effective communicators who engage with various sectors of society and demonstrate a commitment to supporting graduate students. They will participate in the Foundation’s leadership programs, including annual summer schools, and contribute to the Foundation’s vibrant intellectual community.

May 15, 2026

Internal Submission Process

As the University is limited in the number of nominations it can submit to the Foundation, there will be an internal selection process. Selected candidates will be expected to develop and provide a complete dossier for the OVPRI’s feedback and review prior to submission. Please send an Expression of Interest to Victoria Paterson by March 16.


Awarded in physiology/medicine, physics, chemistry, economics and literature. Must be within 3 years post-PhD. ($20K)
TBD Must be nominated by 91¸£Àû. Applications are due to the Dean of Graduate Studies by March 2, 2026. Contact OVPRI if interested.

Open to any person or team who has been involved for at least the last five years in research leading or making a substantial contribution to the diagnosis, prevention or treatment of disease.
July 15, 2026 Must have institutional approval. Contact OVPRI if interested.

For an individual working in Canada who has made outstanding contributions to science communication.
TBD None.

Recognizing excellence in promoting the public understanding of science by a Canadian organization.
TBD None.

Recognizes individual(s) who have made outstanding efforts in advocating for health research at the local, provincial and/or national level. The Emerging Leader award is for those who are within 5 years of finishing their education. 
TBD None.

Funds bold and potentially game-changing projects that will challenge the status quo, spark change and take action to address persistent systemic barriers in the research ecosystem and academia. 
TBD One submission permitted per university. Internal competition details to be communicated in Spring 2026. If interested, please contact OVPRI.

For an outstanding rising star researcher in the field of mental health who is 45 years old or younger. ($100K)
TBD None.

Elected members are within 15 years of their PhD and have demonstrated an exceptional level of achievement.
TBD If interested in being nominated by 91¸£Àû, please contact OVPRI.

Elected fellows are distinguished Canadians from all branches of learning who have made remarkable contributions to the arts, the humanities and the sciences.
TBD If interested in being nominated by 91¸£Àû, please contact OVPRI.

For publication, instruction and research in the earth sciences that have contributed to public understanding and appreciation of the subject.
December 15, 2026 (awarded biennially) If interested in being nominated by 91¸£Àû, please contact OVPRI.

For an outstanding contribution to biological science during the preceding ten years or for significant additions to a previous outstanding contribution to biological science.
December 15, 2026 (awarded biennially) If interested in being nominated by 91¸£Àû, please contact OVPRI.

Recognizes significant contributions by a Canadian scholar in the humanities and social sciences to further our understanding of issues concerning gender.
December 15, 2026 (awarded biennially) If interested in being nominated by 91¸£Àû, please contact OVPRI.

For outstanding research in a branch of astronomy, chemistry, mathematics, physics or an allied science, carried out mainly in the eight years preceding the date of the award.
TBD (awarded biennially) If interested in being nominated by 91¸£Àû, please contact OVPRI.

For a distinguished and sustained contribution to the literature of the social sciences, including human geography and social psychology.
TBD (awarded biennially) If interested in being nominated by 91¸£Àû, please contact OVPRI.

For outstanding work in the history of Canada.
TBD (awarded biennially) If interested in being nominated by 91¸£Àû, please contact OVPRI.

For an important publication in the history of medicine published in the five years preceding its nomination (a book).
TBD (awarded annually) If interested in being nominated by 91¸£Àû, please contact OVPRI.

For outstanding research in any of the branches of the mathematical sciences. In cases where there are two or more strong candidates, some preference is given to those whose age is not over forty in the year of the award.
TBD (awarded biennially) If interested in being nominated by 91¸£Àû, please contact OVPRI.

For achievement in critical or imaginative literature. Preference for Canadian subjects.
TBD (awarded biennially) If interested in being nominated by 91¸£Àû, please contact OVPRI.

For important research of sustained excellence in medical science.
TBD (awarded annually) If interested in being nominated by 91¸£Àû, please contact OVPRI.

For recognition of an individual who has made outstanding contributions to research, education and leadership in applied mechanics. Solid continuum mechanics, fluid mechanics and fluid-structure interaction are all included.
TBD (awarded annually) If interested in being nominated by 91¸£Àû, please contact OVPRI.

For significant contributions to the resolution of scientific aspects of environmental problems or for important improvements to the quality of an ecosystem. ($3,000 and a lecture)
TBD (awarded annually) If interested in being nominated by 91¸£Àû, please contact OVPRI.

For distinguished contribution to knowledge in the humanities other than Canadian literature and Canadian history.
TBD (awarded biennially) If interested in being nominated by 91¸£Àû, please contact OVPRI.

For outstanding research during the formative stage of a career in any branch of physics and chemistry. Must have received PhD within the last 15 years.
TBD (awarded annually) If interested in being nominated by 91¸£Àû, please contact OVPRI.

For important and sustained contributions in two domains of interest to the RSC or in interdisciplinary research.
TBD (awarded biennially) If interested in being nominated by 91¸£Àû, please contact OVPRI.

For outstanding research in earth sciences and ocean and atmospheric sciences.
TBD (awarded biennially) If interested in being nominated by 91¸£Àû, please contact OVPRI.

For recognition of an outstanding contribution to the governance of public and private organizations.
TBD (awarded annually) If interested in being nominated by 91¸£Àû, please contact OVPRI.

For a scientist or engineer 40 years of age or younger for outstanding scientific research carried out in Canada. ($10K)
August 31, 2026 None.

For significant contributions to toxicology within 15 years of PhD.
July 1, 2026 None.

For projects, products and people exemplifying the best of the best in Canada's water sector.
April 24, 2026 None.

Honours persons who have contributed in an innovative, distinctive and exceptional way to the instruction of undergraduate laboratory courses in a faculty or school of engineering at a Canadian University. ($3K)
TBD None.

International Awards

Opportunity External Deadline Internal Approval Requirements

Recognizes senior career researchers for pioneering achievements in mathematics.
September 1, 2026 None.

For senior researchers who are recognised internationally as outstanding in their field and have had a significant impact. To conduct research in Germany.
Continuous intake None.

For advancements in food production, processing, distribution, consumption, safety and/or human nutrition. ($100K)
TBD - on hold None.

Awarded to scholars, artists and scientists who have distinguished themselves in their fields on an international level. There are different themes every year.
March 15, 2027 None.

The two highest scientific awards of the American Diabetes Association.
TBD None.

Awards offered in chemistry, civil and mechanical engineering, computer and cognitive science, earth and environmental science, electrical engineering, life science and physics.
Continuous intake (process involves a two-year evaluation period after submission) None.

Recognizes outstanding achievement that offers a clear vision for the realization of a sustainable society, working toward solving global environmental problems.
TBD None.

For achievements in safe, sustainable, resilient civil infrastructure. Different themes every year.
June 1, 2026 None.

Recognizes transformative and profound contributions in physics, life sciences and math.
TBD None.

Five awards for outstanding contributions by biomedical scientists to understanding human biology and disease. ($100K)
October 1, 2026 None.

For research that has improved the health and well-being of those facing health inequities worldwide. ($100K)
October 1, 2026 None.

Awarded for sustained, outstanding achievements in any field of science. Each year focuses on a different field.
TBD None.

Rewards outstanding work related to the study of the human past. Winners exhibit strong potential for future excellence, innovation and leadership. Must be within 15 years of PhD and have published a major work.
Continuous intake None.

Technology: For outstanding research achievements, which are fundamental for a field of information technology. Must have product or prototype available. 40k Euros. Culture: Related to science communication. 10k Euros.
July 31, 2026 None.

Three awards: Energy Frontiers Award, Advanced Environmental Solutions Award and Energy Transition Award.
TBD None.

Recognition for innovative ideas that aspire to transform knowledge into action to help address the causes and impacts of climate change in the Arctic. All career levels are encouraged to apply.
April 30, 2026 None.

Fundamental contributions in a broad array of areas of scientific knowledge, technology, humanities and artistic creation.
June 30, 2026 None.

The GYA aims to elevate the voice of young scientists in evidence-informed and inclusive global, regional and national decision-making. 
TBD None.

Offering support for three awards: Ideas Improving World Order (politics/policy), Psychology and Education.
TBD None.

Awards major discoveries and contributions in cosmology, genetics and neuroscience.
TBD None.

Awarded to exceptional individuals in pursuit of scholarship in any field of knowledge and creation of any art form.
TBD None.

Awards broad impact on health research and health research policy. Supports a lecture in collaboration with CBC’s Ideas.
TBD None.

Outstanding contributions to research in the humanities, social sciences, law and theology. Decisive influence on international research.
June 15, 2026 None.

Awards achievement in science and engineering. There are two broad categories and specific themes within them annually.
TBD None.

Recognizes and celebrates work of the highest quality and greatest impact that advances understanding of the human experience. Not open to fields covered by the Nobel Prize.
TBD None.

For achievement in medical sciences. The theme changes every year.
May 8, 2026 None.

Recognizes innovative scientific research in neuroscience, astrophysics and nanoscience.
TBD (awarded biennially) None.

Honours researchers from Canada whose fundamental discoveries, new theories or insights have had a significant impact on their own discipline and beyond and whose personality and research contribute to the academic and cultural exchange between the Federal Republic of Germany and Canada.
Continuous intake None.

Honours a major biomedical advance.
TBD None.

For a major advance that improves the lives of many thousands of people.
TBD None.

Awards an individual for improving the public’s understanding of medical research, public health or healthcare; playing a major role in the support of policy, legislative or other initiatives in medical science or health; providing or generating support for medical science or public health; and/or benefiting the lives of many people through public health practice.
TBD None.

Honours scientists for recent discoveries of particular originality and importance to basic medical research.
August 31, 2026 None.

Honours five eminent women scientists from five regions of the world. Subjects alternate every year between Life Sciences or Physical Sciences, Mathematics and Computer Science.
June 30, 2026 Competition includes Physical Sciences, Mathematics and Computer Science.

Recognizes innovators who have made a significant contribution to increasing digital inclusivity through advanced information and communications technology.
June 30, 2026 None.

For ground-breaking technological innovations that benefit millions of people around the world by promoting sustainable development, mitigating climate change and generating applications with global commercial viability.
TBD (awarded biennially) None.

Inclusive health research is an approach where positive, respectful engagement occurs between researchers and key affected stakeholders and organizations. The project must have occurred within 10 years of the application deadline.
TBD None.

For those within 10 years of finishing a PhD and are untenured, who have made an exceptional contribution to scientific discovery, exhibit potential for developing and leading an independent research group, and have made efforts to inspire the next generation of female scientists.
TBD None.

The Spinoff Prize is a €30,000 global award for early-stage university spinoff companies providing a unique opportunity for academic entrepreneurs to raise their company profile and get noticed by potential investors.  
TBD None.

Six awards for physics and math for early career researchers.
TBD None.

Awards exceptional, science-based achievement in international agriculture and food production by an individual under 40.
June 1, 2026 None.

Awarded for bold, ground-breaking engineering innovation that is of global benefit to humanity.
TBD None.

Awarded for achievements in biomedical sciences. The Gold Medal is for lifetime achievement.
TBD None.

Three prizes: Astronomy, Life and Medical Sciences, Math. Awarded to those who have recently achieved distinguished and significant advances.
TBD None.

For early career researchers in recognition of distinguished performance and a unique potential to make substantial contributions to their field. Must be untenured. Eligible fields: computer science, chemistry, earth system science, economics, math, neuroscience and physics.
TBD Must be nominated by department head, senior administration or a senior researcher. Contact OVPRI if interested.

For outstanding achievements of lasting significance for sustainable use and protection of the world’s water resources.
September 15, 2026 None.

Recognizes those working to preserve and enhance our world and to inspire others to understand the importance of the environment.
May 15, 2026 None.

For breakthrough research/technological innovations that positively improve the quality of human life and create a more equitable and sustainable world for future generations.
April 17, 2026 None.

Awarded only to female researchers or innovators.
April 17, 2026 None.

An emerging field is defined as any field that is non-traditional. Its researchers may come from different disciplines.
April 17, 2026 None.

Laureates represent all fields of environmental and sustainability studies and initiatives. Must have impacts outside of the discipline.
TBD None.

For breakthroughs in biomedicine.
TBD None.

Recognizes breakthroughs in pure or applied life science research that are distinguished by excellence, originality and impact on our understanding of biological systems and processes.
TBD None.


Recognition of scientific and technological research and development.

TBD Nominations must be made through institutional leaders. Contact OVPRI if interested.

For a renowned educator, an authority in the field of teaching or an individual who has promoted education policies.
TBD Nominations must be made through institutional leaders. Contact OVPRI if interested.

For a renowned artist, sculptor, writer, poet, cinematographer, photographer, architect, musician, or other performing, creative or visionary artist whose work constitutes a significant contribution to the artistic legacy of the world.
TBD Nominations must be made through institutional leaders. Contact OVPRI if interested.

For a specific, exceptionally significant, individual achievement that advances human development with a demonstrable increase in the quantity, quality, availability of, or access to food.
May 1, 2026 None.

Professional Association Awards (National)

The associations listed below administer a variety of awards for the full range of career levels. If you have suggestions for additions, contact Elizabeth Mueller at elizabeth.mueller@torontomu.ca If you would like to pursue a nomination or nominate a colleague, contact your faculty/department and the OVPRI.

Association Field External Deadline
Anthropology Varies by award
Math TBD
Engineering and related TBD
Geography  TBD
Physics Varies by award
  Economics  Varies by award
Earth Sciences TBD
Earth Sciences TBD
Social Sciences TBD
Linguistics TBD
Math Varies by award
Engineering TBD
Engineering, Physics  TBD
Nursing Varies by award
Interdisciplinary TBD
Physics Varies by award
  Health TBD
Psychology  TBD
Engineering May 15, 2026
Engineering TBD
Health  Varies by award
Life Sciences Varies by award
Life Sciences and related TBD
Life Sciences TBD
Life Sciences TBD
Chemistry TBD
  Social Work TBD
Biology Varies by award
Sociology  Varies by award
Math Varies by award
Chemistry, Engineering Varies by award
Computer Science, Engineering Varies by award
Nursing TBD
Engineering October 25, 2026
Engineering TBD
Earth Science TBD
Engineering TBD
Engineering TBD
Geography, Earth Sciences Varies by award
Interdisciplinary July 1, 2026
Math TBD

Updated: April 16, 2026